Haiwaan has given Saiyami Kher many firsts. It’s not only her maiden collaboration with actors Akshay Kumar, Saif Ali Khan, and filmmaker Priyadarshan, but also her first attempt at a crime thriller. For the actor, who recently wrapped up the movie, the biggest highlight was working with Khan.

“Saif sir is about constant laughter between takes, [with his] wicked sense of humour and stories that keep everyone entertained. But the moment the director calls action, there’s a switch in him. He is focused, effortless, and completely in the zone,” marvelled Kher.

If she remembers Khan for his humour, Kumar is the epitome of discipline for her. Sharing the screen with him left her with invaluable lessons. “His punctuality and dedication to work are unmatched. Every day with him was a reminder of what professionalism looks like,” she said.

With Haiwaan, Priyadarshan is adapting his Malayalam hit Oppam (2016) for the Hindi film audience. It’s said to be a cat-and-mouse chase between Khan’s blind protagonist, who has to stay one step ahead of the antagonist, essayed by Kumar. After being directed by Priyadarshan, Kher has deep admiration for the filmmaker.

“Working with Priyadarshan sir was a lesson in clarity. His experience of having directed 99 films brings so much calm and precision to the set.”