Kitu Gidwani Shares Fond Memories of Aamir Khan's Humble Start in Bollywood
Long before Aamir Khan became synonymous with cinematic masterpieces like 'Lagaan' and 'Dangal', he was just another aspiring actor navigating the uncertain waters of Bollywood. In a recent throwback interview, his 'Holi' co-star Kitu Gidwani offered a rare glimpse into those formative years, painting a picture of a star who was far from the confident icon he is today.
'Aamir Khan Was a Nobody Back Then'
Speaking candidly to YouTuber Siddharth Kannan, Gidwani revealed that during the filming of 'Holi', Aamir Khan was virtually unknown in the industry. 'During those days, Aamir Khan was a nobody! He had just started his career in cinema,' she confessed. 'I had no clue who Aamir Khan was. He is a man who loves cinema. He was creative.'
Gidwani fondly described the young actor as 'quiet and simple', emphasizing his humble demeanor. 'They were all very humble and cool. He was a very simple actor back then. I can call him a friend,' she added, highlighting the camaraderie on set.
Nerves and Intimate Scenes
One of the most revealing anecdotes from the interview centered on Aamir's nervousness, particularly during intimate scenes. 'He was very nervous when we had to kiss. He was as nervous as I was,' Gidwani recalled. This vulnerability stands in stark contrast to the composed, methodical performer audiences know today, underscoring how even the biggest stars begin with trepidation.
The Making of 'Holi': A Passion Project
Gidwani also delved into how she became part of filmmaker Ketan Mehta's coming-of-age drama 'Holi'. Recalling her days at the Film Institute campus, she said, 'We were all crazy people on the Film Institute campus.' Mehta approached her after noticing her involvement in student films, leading to her role. 'Suddenly he was like, 'Will you do Holi?' I was like, 'What is Holi?' He said, 'It's a film I am doing.' And that's how it all happened,' she explained.
The film, shot largely on the campus of the Film and Television Institute of India in Pune, featured stalwarts like Naseeruddin Shah, Om Puri, and Ashutosh Gowariker. What started as a student-driven project evolved into a significant early chapter for many illustrious careers.
About her role, Gidwani was refreshingly candid: 'I just played the sexy girl on campus. Back then, it was not about money or a stepping stone. We just did what we liked.' She suggested the atmosphere was fueled more by passion than ambition, a sentiment that defined the indie spirit of the project.
Reflections on Naseeruddin Shah and the Industry
Gidwani also shared insights from working with Naseeruddin Shah, whom she described as humble and dedicated. 'Naseer is quite humble when he comes before his co-actors. For us, the work was more important. For Naseer, work is worship,' she said. She joined his theatre group, Motley Crew, and viewed him as a guru, emphasizing the respect he commanded without demanding it.
Aamir Khan's Current Projects and Future Endeavors
On the professional front, Aamir Khan recently appeared in a cameo role and served as producer for 'Happy Patel: Khatarnak Jasoos', a film starring Vir Das that has received mixed reviews and modest box office returns. He is next backing 'Ek Din', starring his son Junaid Khan alongside Sai Pallavi, whose teaser has sparked curiosity among audiences.
According to reports, Aamir is reportedly set to portray legendary filmmaker Dadasaheb Phalke in an upcoming biopic directed by Rajkumar Hirani, though an official announcement is pending. Additionally, he has confirmed that work has begun on his long-gestating dream project based on the Mahabharat, signaling his continued commitment to ambitious storytelling.
Looking back, 'Holi' serves as a poignant reminder that even the most celebrated stars once grappled with nerves and uncertainty on modest sets. Gidwani's recollections not only humanize Aamir Khan but also celebrate the raw passion that drives Bollywood's finest, from their humble beginnings to their iconic status today.
