Daler Mehndi Belts Out His Acting Debut in "Welcome To The Jungle

Legendary Punjabi pop singer Daler Mehndi is gearing up for his first-ever Bollywood role in the Welcome To The Jungle movie, which is a follow-up to Welcome Back (2015). The vocalist of Tunak Tunak Tun talked to us about his goals for 2024, his first acting project, and performing in front of the camera in music videos.

In the Ahmed Khan-directed action-adventure comedy Welcome To The Jungle, you will be making your acting debut. How did everything start?

Daler Mehndi: I received a call one day from my good friend Ahmad Khan with a proposal. He made one need clear when he offered the idea: I had to accept the project. Then he told me how much he wanted me to star in his next movie and how much he wanted Mika to work on it as well. I suggested Ahmad talk with Mika directly because he was with me at the time. Luckily, Mika accepted, and I felt good about my choice when I met with producer Feroz Nadiadwala for the first time in the days that followed. The story had me in stitches. We were filming the acapella before we could comprehend and allow it to sink in. It was a funny and exciting experience. I was on board and eager to set out on a fresh adventure.

You've been filming music videos for years, so this wasn't really your first time being in front of the camera.

Daler Mehndi: That's accurate, but acting is a very different experience than juggling hectic schedules. I have the highest esteem for everyone who works in the film and television industries, regardless of their position. I salute each and every one of them for the tremendous amount of work that they have put in.

What was it like to engage with seasoned actors who are in the cast and to be in front of the camera?

Mehndi Daler: It was amazing. The entire cast, especially the seasoned performers, was incredibly cordial and inviting, as did the director and producer. From Johnny Lever to Suniel Shetty, Paresh Rawal, Sanjay Dutt, Rajpal Yadav, Lara Dutta, Disha Patani, and Raveena Tandon.

As a foodie like me, Akshay Kumar Bhaji made sure that my meal was handled carefully. During my stay there, I exclusively consumed vegetarian meals that he prepared at home. He would even make sure there was no extra sugar in the juice I was drinking. I am incredibly appreciative of the respect, love, and camaraderie I experienced on the sets. Everything went according to plan.

What, in your opinion, makes this movie unique?

Daler Mehndi: With one of the largest celebrity casts, this movie is absolutely insane on the sets. There were moments when it seemed like one big celebration. Quite demanding, but also very entertaining. It is impossible to describe the excitement and passion of starting this new journey. the first acapella performed by actors and vocalists in history. It's a humorous, real, and, most importantly, entertaining jungle. Take a look at the distinctive way that Firoz Bhai and Ahmad Khan introduced the movie. It's not like the norm. Who opens the forest to anyone? Still, here we are.

What does 2024 hold that you are most excited about? Are there any partnerships in the works?

Daler Mehndi: I'm excited to perform the music I'll be writing. Sher Ali Mehr Ali, Speed, and other varied musicians will work together to provide a broad variety of musical styles for all of you. I'll be appearing on screen more often. This year, there are my eagerly anticipated tours as well.

I intend to engage in further music festivals, so broadening my musical horizons. Beyond music, I'm thrilled to provide Daler Mehndi Festive Farms, an area devoted to learning about all things organic. This residency covers a wide range of topics, from fine arts, which includes both music and art, to organic food and products.

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