Learning on the job, especially from veterans in the industry, is a rite of passage for any actor. Upendra Chauhan, who made his big-screen debut with Meghna Gulzar’s Sam Bahadur (2023), feels fortunate to be back on the filmmaker’s set for the upcoming crime drama Daayra, headlined by Kareena Kapoor Khan and Prithviraj Sukumaran.

Playing a cop alongside Khan in Daayra gave Chauhan the opportunity to observe her professionalism and the ease with which she carries her stardom.

“From our initial readings to being on set, she made an effort to connect as people and not just as co-actors. That helped build a genuine rapport, which was valuable because our characters also share a strong professional relationship within the story,” observes Chauhan. 

What struck him most was Khan’s confidence, especially when “she doesn’t make it about herself”.

“She is extremely honest, hardworking, and disciplined. She comes prepared, but respects the process, listens to the director, and remains fully committed to the work,” he shares, adding that he learnt the importance of consistency from her.