20 November,2021 07:06 AM IST | Mumbai | Uma Ramasubramanian
Ahan Shetty
Every time a star kid is launched in the industry, it reignites the insider-versus-outsider debate. Things aren't too different for Ahan Shetty who is Bollywood-bound with Tadap. Naturally, we start our chat with the obvious question: Did actor-father Suniel Shetty help him bag his debut film? "Not at all," exclaims Ahan, before adding, "I had uploaded a few dance and action videos on Instagram. Sajid sir [Nadiadwala, producer] saw them and reached out to one of my dad's friends. He, in turn, called my dad to say that Sajid sir wants to meet me. When I met him, he wanted to know if I could act. I sent him a few clips that had me performing scenes, which he liked. That [led to my] signing the contract."
A still from the film
Even as he narrates the events, it isn't lost on Ahan that being a star kid has its advantages. "Being Suniel Shetty's son does put you [on the map]. But I feel I got this film because I worked hard and proved myself to Sajid sir. After the film releases, I will understand if I deserve to be here."
Tadap, a remake of Telugu film RX 100 (2018), is an intense romantic drama of two star-crossed lovers, played by Ahan and Tara Sutaria. As someone who swears by tragic love stories, the actor was thrilled to be part of one. "The Vow [2012] is one of my favourite movies. This is the type of film I want to do. There isn't a sense of fear because I like to take on challenges. This film was difficult because given the two different personalities my character has, it was almost like playing a double role."
ALSO READ
Priyanka Chopra puts her toned legs on display in shimmery outfit
'Bhabi Ji Ghar Par Hai' actor recalls Salman Khan driving on the footpath
Meet Radhika Apte’s husband Benedict Taylor who composed music for 'Heeramandi'
Madhuri Dixit celebrates 25 years of mariage with Dr Shriram Nene
‘All We Imagine As Light’ filmmaker Payal Kapadia on Oscar snub
Seeing himself on the big screen was Ahan's aspiration since he was 11. "I am an introvert, so acting helped me bring out my emotions through different [roles]. Athiya [sister] had gone to the New York Film Academy. [When I was considering going there], she said it was pointless as the things they teach there are different from what we do [in India]. So, I focused on martial arts and weapon training, working on my physique and Hindi [diction]."
Also Read: Ahan Shetty, Tara Sutaria starrer 'Tadap' shot at real aesthetic locations of Mussoorie