Bollywood actress Gauahar Khan recently shared her thoughts on how her debut film, Rocket Singh: Salesman of the Year, would have impacted her career had it been released in the present time. The actress, who starred alongside Ranbir Kapoor in the 2009 film, opened up during an interview with Bollywood Bubble, giving insight into her career trajectory and her experiences working on Rocket Singh.
Gauahar Khan and Ranbir Kapoor joined forces for Rocket Singh
In the interview, Gauahar Khan fervently expressed that had Rocket Singh been released today, it would have catapulted her to stardom. Despite its unique storyline and compelling performances, the film didn’t achieve the level of success it perhaps deserved when it first hit the theaters.
She reminisced about the late iconic actor Rishi Kapoor, who lauded her performance in the film. Rishi Kapoor’s praise for Gauahar was a standout moment, as he described her as the “best thing” about Rocket Singh. The appreciation from an industry stalwart like Rishi Kapoor cemented her belief in her acting potential.
Gauahar also took the opportunity to praise the film itself, noting that Rocket Singh was well ahead of its time. She passionately elaborated on the strengths of the movie, its screenplay, and the performances that contributed to it. At the time of its release, the Bollywood industry was not quite ready for a film of such simplicity, yet profound depth. Gauahar argued that the film, with its strong narrative and execution, would have swept the awards if it had been released in contemporary times. Reflecting on her past recognition, she fondly recalled being nominated for two awards and winning one for her performance in Rocket Singh.
Describing her journey, Gauahar remarked that despite Rocket Singh being a Yash Raj Films (YRF) production and featuring a star like Ranbir Kapoor, it did not receive the enthusiasm it merited from audiences. She noted, “I think the times have changed. If Rocket Singh were released today, I would probably have been the next superstar to hit the market.” Nonetheless, Gauahar sees the brighter side, insisting that every experience is a stepping stone. She feels that debuting in Rocket Singh has made her the actor she is today.
. “If I had not debuted with Rocket Singh, I would not be the actor I am today,” she stated. She credits esteemed director Shimit Amin and the esteemed production house YRF for providing her with an enriching opportunity.
Moreover, she appreciated the guidance of scriptwriter Jaideep Sahni, who helped her realize her potential as an actress. She recalled his advice to focus on her instincts as an actor and not to get caught up with the fame or who she was working alongside. Sahni’s mentorship encouraged her to remain authentic and true to herself in her acting pursuit.
Gauahar did not shy away from praising her co-star Ranbir Kapoor either. She lauded Ranbir as an exceptional actor, particularly admiring his performance in the film Barfi. Reflecting on the first screening of Rocket Singh, Gauahar vividly recalled the awe and admiration from prominent industry figures like Rishi Kapoor, Yash Chopra, and Javed Akhtar. Recalling that event, she shared, “I remember Rishi ji pointing at me and saying, ‘Baaki sab choro, yeh ladki (Leave everything, this girl), she is the best thing in the film. The way she picks up calls in the film, it does not look like she’s acting. She looks like an actual receptionist from a call centre.’”
Gauahar was particularly touched by Rishi Kapoor’s praise, which left a lasting impact on her. She noted that he spoke about her performance for an extended period, a memory she cherishes even if others do not.
The actress’s reflections on Rocket Singh highlight the film’s underappreciated brilliance and the monumental impact it had on her. As she pondered what could have been had the film been released today, she expressed gratitude for the opportunities and learnings that came her way. Her honest and heartfelt reflection not only underscores her journey but also celebrates the timeless quality of Rocket Singh: Salesman of the Year that continues to resonate with those who have enjoyed the film.
