29th September 2023,Mumbai: Return of the Fukrey Gang
Fukrey 3 has graced the theaters, bringing back the beloved original gang of Fukrey, featuring Pulkit Samrat as Hunny and Manjot Singh as Lalli, alongside Richa Chadha as Bholi, Varun Sharma as Choocha, and Pankaj Tripathi as Panditji. The uproarious trailer teased a series of comically absurd sequences, from hanging over crocodile-infested waters to campaigning on a tank during elections. In an interview, Pulkit and Manjot reveal their experiences, both hilarious and painful, during the making of this much-anticipated comedy.
The Excitement of Fukrey 3
Upon hearing the script for Fukrey 3, Pulkit and Manjot were over the moon. In a lockdown-era Zoom meeting, the duo learned that they were about to embark on the third installment of this iconic franchise. Pulkit was so enthralled that he couldn’t focus on anything else until the interval. The film promised more charm, larger-than-life antics, and an explosion of colors, all while maintaining the essential honesty and innocence of the characters that have endeared Fukrey to its audience.
The Personal Significance
For Manjot, the Fukrey films hold a special place in his heart. He recounted how the first Fukrey film was the first time he appeared on a poster, a significant milestone in his career. Manjot’s personal connection with the term “fukra” from his Delhi upbringing made this project even more meaningful. Fukrey turned his dream of playing the quintessential fukra into a reality.
The Hanging Challenge
One of the standout scenes in Fukrey 3 is the heart-pounding sequence where Lalli, Choocha, and Panditji find themselves suspended in mid-air above a pool. This scene wasn’t just for show; the actors were actually hanging there for a grueling 45 minutes at a time. They could only take a 10-minute break to touch solid ground. The pain was excruciating, but the actors’ dedication and the natural expressions they produced made it all worthwhile.
Sacrifices for Laughter
The suffering endured by the actors during such physically demanding scenes is a testament to their commitment to making audiences laugh. Sacrificing their comfort and enduring extreme conditions becomes a victory when the audience roars with laughter in the theaters. The pain fades into the background when the actors see their hard work translate into pure entertainment.
Tank Madness
Another jaw-dropping sequence involved a tank right in the middle of a Delhi road. The scorching heat, with temperatures soaring to 47 degrees, made it one of the most challenging shoots for the entire cast. Despite the brutal conditions, the result on screen is a testament to the team’s dedication. People on the streets of Delhi witnessed the spectacle as the actors performed daring stunts and crowd-pleasing antics.
Roller Coaster Laughs
Filming at a waterpark brought a unique blend of fun and laughter to the set. The cast would race to a roller coaster, take exhilarating rides, and return to deliver lines while still reeling from the adrenaline rush. The deserted waterpark provided an opportunity for the actors to fulfill their childhood dreams, enjoying all the rides without waiting in long queues.
The Pankaj Tripathi Effect
Working with Pankaj Tripathi, who plays Panditji, brought its own set of challenges and laughs. Tripathi’s expressions alone were enough to send the cast into fits of laughter, making it a Herculean task to complete scenes in a single take. With 20-21 takes becoming the norm due to uncontrollable laughter, the set was a riot of amusement.
As Fukrey 3 delights audiences with its uproarious humor and unforgettable moments, the behind-the-scenes tales from Pulkit Samrat and Manjot Singh offer a glimpse into the dedication and camaraderie that have made this franchise a beloved part of Indian cinema. Their willingness to endure pain for the sake of laughter is a testament to their commitment to the art of making people smile.
-by Kashvi Gala