In 2023, actress Priyamani opened up about the memorable experience of meeting Shah Rukh Khan on the sets of Jawan after almost a decade. In an exclusive interview with ETimes, the actor spoke candidly about working with SRK, his admiration for him and how the superstar made him feel welcome on set.Recalling their first meeting on the sets, Priyamani shared, “She saw me and flashed the biggest smile and gave me the tightest hug and said, ‘Thank you for being a part of this film’.”The actor, who earlier worked with Shah Rukh in Chennai Express, revealed that the story and the prospect of collaborating again with SRK and director Atlee attracted him to Jawan.“Both. Mainly, it was the story that worked for me. And then the film being directed by Atlee, acting with Shah Rukh Khan was the icing on the cake,” he said.
Priyamani Zinda shared behind the scenes moments of Banda
Priyamani also talked about the grand scale of the Zinda Banda dance sequence, which became one of the highlights of Jawan.“Honestly, I had no idea that song would have about a thousand dancers. But I’m so glad Mr. Atlee thought of it,” he recalled.The actor revealed that the dancers were brought in from various cities including Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai and Kerala.Sharing a wonderful anecdote from the shoot, Priyamani said that Shah Rukh personally ensured that he was by her side during rehearsals and shooting.“He came and saw me and said, ‘Why are you behind?’ I said, ‘That’s my attitude.’ Then he called Master Shobi and said, “He has been my teacher since Chennai Express and he will be by my side and I will copy him.” So if I make a mistake, that means he made a mistake,’” he recalls with a laugh.“I told SRK, ‘Sir, please don’t put so much pressure.’ He made sure I was there for him,” he added.
“Shah Rukh sir is awesome,” said Priyamani
Shah Rukh Khan praised her dedication as a performer, describing Priyamani as a “phenomenal dancer” who gives her all in every performance.“Being his ‘teacher’, I can confidently say that Shah Rukh sir is a phenomenal dancer. He puts his heart and soul into whatever he does, be it acting or dancing,” she said.He further added, “She gives her 200 percent, no matter how easy or difficult the choreography is. She makes it look like a cakewalk.”The actor also praised SRK for his respectful and friendly behavior towards everyone on the sets.“I think it’s the best when it comes to being a gentleman. It’s the ultimate in giving equal respect to every person, not just women,” Priyamani said.
Priyamani confessed that she was in love with Shah Rukh Khan
During the interview, Priyamani also admitted that Shah Rukh Khan was the only Bollywood actor she fell in love with.“The only person I hired is Shah Rukh Khan and I started working with him. I’m happy about that. Here’s looking forward to many more projects with him,” he said.Apart from SRK, the actor also praised Ranbir Kapoor and called it “effortless” when it came to acting and dancing.“I think it’s a journey,” he added.
