Actress to bring ‘new temperament’ to the role as she joins co-stars on sets
Himesh Mankad (MUMBAI MIRROR; May 6, 2019)

Mirror was the first to report (May 1) that Akshay Kumar and Katrina Kaif will begin work on their first Rohit Shetty film, Sooryavanshi, on May 6 in Mumbai. Now, we have learnt that Neena Gupta has also signed on for the cop-drama and will join the leads on the first day of the shoot. The actress has come on board to essay the character of Akshay’s mother in the film.

“This is an interesting role because it isn’t the stereotypical mother who asks his son about food, marriage etc., but has several dimensions. There is a new temperament to the mother, and you will get to see a very different dynamic between Akshay, Katrina and me. This is a new, sweet and interesting space that I am looking to explore,” said Neena, adding that she is looking forward to work with Rohit in an out-and-out commercial film. “I am happy that more people will get to see my work. Rohit has made some amazing films which have been appreciated by the audience.”

In February, the actress won the Best Actress award at Filmfare for her performance in the 2018 Junglee Pictures production, Badhaai Ho. She admitted that the Amit Sharma directorial gave her a new lease of life in the film industry. “Badhaai Ho has given me a hit that I have wanted since I came into the industry 35-40 years ago. I have done many films before this, but not a lot of people saw my work,” she acknowledged, admitting that a lot of offers are coming her way now, but she is only signing roles which have something new and challenging for her.

In Sooryavanshi, Akshay plays ATS chief Veer Sooryavanshi, while Katrina is his love interest. Following the 10-12-day stint in Mumbai, Akshay and Rohit will fly to Bangkok to shoot the hero’s introductory scene. Soon after, they move to Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad, followed by a brief shoot in Goa. The film is gearing up for an Eid 2020 release.