Sanyukta Iyer (MUMBAI MIRROR; October 5, 2017)

National Award-winning actor Irrfan Khan, who has consistently delivered critically acclaimed performances, both in Bollywood and on the global platform, added another feather to his versatile cap when he turned a fashion designer. He worked closely with the film’s stylist Maria Tharakkan and sought inputs from wife Sutapa Sikdar, who is a co-producer on the film with close friend Shailja Kejriwal.

He also picked up colourful dhotis, patchwork shirts and quirky jewellery for his turn as a yogi in Tanuja Chandra’s upcoming romcom, Qarib Qarib Singlle. Irrfan was keen to add his own palette of designs to the character. “It’s a slice-of-life travelogue shot in Rajasthan, Delhi, Rishikesh and Gangtok. From shooting against the backdrop of the ‘Fairy Queen’ — the oldest running steam engine in India dating back to 1855 — to accessorizing his look with a chic hat and sunglasses which he picked up en route Rewari and spending time with the locals in Gangtok, Irrfan thoroughly enjoyed the shoot,” a source close to the development told Mirror.

The film also marks the Bollywood debut of South actress Parvathy, who bagged the Kerala State Award for Best Actress for her turn in Charlie, opposite Dulquer Salmaan. Parvathy and Irrfan’s love story unravels as the two travel across North India. “The film has a desi adventurous vibe to it. Tanuja, who has directed thrillers like Sangharsh and Dushman in the past, wanted to switch to a fun-loving drama this time,” adds the source.

The film also has a lot of folk influences, with singercomposer Vishal Mishra recording with Chandigarh’s popular Nooran sisters for two tracks, the tentatively titled “Tu Jaan Le Le Meri” and “Khatam Kahani”. “The songs required folk musicians and Vishal brought on board two visually impaired musicians — a percussionist and a harmonium player. Both of them are so talented that it took them just one take to get it right. The score is going to be as unique and surprising as Irrfan’s new look,” the source signs off.