In an exclusive chat with mid-day, Vivaan Shah opens up on the success of Ikkis, praising co-star Agastya Nanda’s dedication and intellect. He also recalls how Happy New Year changed his life and fondly remembers Shah Rukh Khan’s kindness, humility and commitment to his craft
Vivaan Shah
Agastya Nanda’s Ikkis won immense appreciation upon its release. The film also starred Vivaan Shah in the pivotal role of Captain Vijendra Malhotra, who is a close confidant of Arun Khaterpal, essayed by Agastya. In an exclusive chat with mid-day, the actor reflects on the recognition he is getting after Happy New Year, memories with Shah Rukh Khan, and the nepo kid tag.
Vivaan Shah on working with Agastya in Ikkis
Talking about the overwhelming response the film received, the actor says, “After Happy New Year, and perhaps Bombay Velvet, this is the biggest release I’ve ever had. It was a huge thing for my parents — Naseeruddin Shah and Ratna Pathak Shah — as well.”
Shedding light on his equation with Agastya Nanda, he praised the Archies actor for his hard work. “He gave his life for this film. He is also a very intelligent and thoughtful person and has a very brilliant mind and a vibrant intellect. I was very inspired by him. Interestingly, I was exactly his age when I worked with his mamu (Abhishek Bachchan). And it’s almost like life is coming full circle in a way. It was really, really beautiful working with him. I really forged a great bond and a friendship. And it’s also interesting, the relationship that our characters have on screen.”
When Ikkis released, a disclaimer attached at the end credits of the film went viral. It called Pakistan a not-so-trustworthy nation, with Brigadier K. M. Nisaar (played by Jaideep Ahlawat) being an exception. Commenting on the situation, Vivaan stated, “It’s a very complicated time, and I am still processing it. Our film is a humane and kind film. These are subjects and issues that are beyond my understanding. So, I don’t think it would be right to comment because I don’t know enough about such matters. I also feel that when I reach a place where my voice has some weight, then I will speak about such issues. Right now, I am also trying to find my footing in my profession, and I feel that it’s too early for me to speak about such delicate matters.”
Vivaan Shah on working with SRK in Happy New Year
Recalling how Happy New Year catapulted him into stardom, the actor reflects, “People recognised me on the streets because of it, especially kids. I was so honoured to be in the presence of all the people I grew up watching. Be it Abhishek, Boman Irani, Deepika Padukone, Shah Rukh Khan — these are people I have grown up with.”
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When asked about his fond memory with King Khan, he gushed, “His kindness, generosity, humour, and commitment to work. His commitment to his work is something else. Also, he is hardworking, and he does not take himself seriously. I think that is, in a nutshell, the greatness of that actor.”
Vivaan Shah on nepotism
Despite being the son of Naseeruddin Shah and Ratna Pathak, he takes no pressure to carry forward the legacy. “It’s always been a positive pressure that has motivated me to work harder and make them happy and proud. I’ve never taken it in a negative way.”
Vivaan also shared how it’s tough for kids debuting today. “If I had debuted today, I don’t know how I would have managed. The kids today have it much tougher than we did. Because in our time, cinema was a monoculture. If your film was released, people would watch it. But if a young actor debuts today, it isn’t seen as widely as they hope for.”
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