Despite the presence of superstar Ranveer Singh, the “outsider” to Hindi cinema, who had previously appeared on small-screen in the coming-of-age comedy series Life Sahi Hai (2016) and the sports-drama Inside Edge (2017), grabbed attention in his film debut as the deep-thinking rapper MC Sher in Gully Boy. Siddhant Chaturvedi capitalised on his success by avoiding typecasting, and he was next seen as Kunal Singh, a con man (Bunty aur Babli 2, 2021), and Zain Oberoi, a tragic lover (Gehraiyaan, 2022).
The understated heartthrob added another “role” to his growing resume earlier this year when he was named the Indian Brand Ambassador for Ulysse Nardin, the innovative Swiss horological house that pushes the boundaries of watchmaking with timepieces inspired by the seas.
Siddhant has always been a big Aamir Khan fan, and he also enjoys cricket. So, after seeing Lagaan and later watching the making-of documentary, he realised the true authenticity and aspirations of making a film in Indian cinema. Lagaan was a story about an underdog who learned to overcome and rise above his limitations.
Siddhant stated “I first set foot on a set during the filming of Inside Edge. Of course, I was nervous, but when they said “Action,” it was as if something inside me clicked. I thought I was terrible, but they were ecstatic. “Moving on,” said the director after two takes. I had prepared thoroughly because this was my first role. I don’t think I’ve ever “acted”; I just act like the character.”
He avoided being repetitive by gravitating toward different genres and characters. He read the script several times to become acquainted with the situations his character would encounter, and he kept a character diary. He considers filmmaking to be a marriage in which the director creates a world and the actor brings in the character who fits into that world. It takes a team effort.
He also stated, “In fact, it is the other way around.” As actors, we must focus on our craft. There is no such thing as a brand; my motto is to be kind and do good work, and if that equates to my “brand,” that’s fine with me.”
It is a philosophy rather than a strategy.