In a candid interview with News18 Showsha, acclaimed director Ali Abbas Zafar spilled the beans on why Bollywood A-lister Katrina Kaif is conspicuously absent from the cast of the highly expected movie “Bade Miyan Chote Miyan”. A name synonymous with some of the most successful Indian films, Zafar has been notably associated with Kaif through a spate of cinematic hits, including “Mere Brother Ki Dulhan”, “Tiger Zinda Hai”, and “Bharat”. Despite their past successful collaborations, it appears Kaif was unavailable for Zafar’s latest venture due to conflicting schedules.
Ali Abbas Zafar’s admission about the absence of his frequent collaboratrice, Katrina Kaif, in his upcoming film has sent ripples across the Bollywood fraternity. Renowned for their palpable chemistry both on and off screen, the filmmaker lamented the loss of having Kaif on board due to insurmountable date issues. “Katrina is always on my mind when it comes to making any film. If I don’t cast her, she calls and tells me, ‘Why aren’t you taking me in your film?’” Zafar shared, giving fans a glimpse into the rapport they share.
Articulating on the potential he sees in Kaif, Zafar considers her involvement in any project not just as a nominal formality, but a significant enhancement to the work in question. His regard for her skill set is apparent when he said, “I feel there’s a lot of potential in her as an actor. Whether it was ‘Bharat’, ‘Mere Brother Ki Dulhan’, or ‘Tiger Zinda Hai’, she has done some really good work with me”.
The poignant bond they share isn’t just professional. Zafar fondly recounted how each of his new film announcements usually invites a prompt inquiry from Katrina, often playfully chiding him for not extending her an offer. This time around, due to a prior engagement, Katrina couldn’t align her schedule with the demands of “Bade Miyan Chote Miyan”.
The director’s revelation has also shone light on a previous collaborative aspiration, the yet-to-be-realized superhero film by the name of “Super Soldier”. Originally planned to roll into production, it suffered indefinite postponement owing to Katrina Kaif’s commitments to “Tiger 3”, followed by unforeseen delays caused by the pandemic. However, Zafar shared renewed optimism about the project, stating that while the plans are still alive, the film’s initiation awaits an opportune moment when both their schedules align.
The upcoming feature film “Bade Miyan Chote Miyan” stars Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff, set against an action-packed backdrop. Among the notable cast members are Manushi Chillar and Alaya F, adding fresh faces to this highly anticipated movie. Adding to the excitement are Prithviraj Sukumaran, who will don the mantle of the film’s antagonist, and Sonakshi Sinha in a role that promises to intrigue the audiences. The film, slated for release on April 10, 2024, is inching closer to its premiere as fans eagerly await another landmark movie in Indian cinema.
Regardless of the unforeseen casting hiccup, Ali Abbas Zafar’s indisputable talent as a filmmaker and his knack for storytelling promise to bring forth a cinematic experience that could resonate with audiences and critics alike. While the absence of Katrina Kaif might be felt by fans of the dynamic duo, the upcoming “Bade Miyan Chote Miyan” continues to hold the promise of captivating entertainment.
