Vicky Kaushal Channels Sam Manekshaw: "I Started with the Statement, 'I Don't Know Anything'"

Vicky Kaushal visited Team t2 for an exclusive interview, and the vibe was "FriYay" and the "josh" was evident. Vicky, whose eight-year filmography already includes stunners like Masaan, Raazi, Sardar Udham, and Uri, was his usual warm and affable self, in Calcutta to promote his upcoming film Sam Bahadur, which delves into the mind of legendary Army man Sam Manekshaw and traces the heroics of the man often regarded as “India’s Greatest Soldier.” He took us through the mind and heart of “Sam Bahadur,” explaining why the film is his “toughest” to date, what his family support means to him, and what a relaxing day with wife Katrina Kaif looks like.

In keeping with t2 tradition, there were many pastries available prior to our tete-a-tete at ITC Royal Bengal, thanks to Little Pleasures Patisserie. Vicky's December 1st figure duplicate of herself as Sam Manekshaw was shown on one cake; the other cakes depicted other facets and personas from his life. “Many thanks! "It's nice to begin the day with such a pleasant note," said Vicky, who was wearing casual attire, sporting a full beard, and glares.

Roy Priyanka: Hi there again! You came to our city for the Durand Cup, where you filmed a chunk of Sam Bahadur, and now you are launching your Sam Bahadur marketing from here. During your recent visits to Calcutta, have you learned anything new?

Vicky Kaushal: I have visited Kolkata more times in the last year than I have in any previous history. I like visiting Calcutta. I wish I could eat more of the food, but alas, not this time. However, I could treat myself while Sam Bahadur was being filmed. The city's culture and charm, together with the kind and helpful locals, make me adore visiting. They greeted me warmly when I arrived for the Durand Cup while I was filming, and I felt compelled to return time and time again.

Though I don't have a certain genre in mind, I would want to make a movie here in the rain. The rains in Calcutta have a certain romantic quality. An air of nostalgia and old school vibes permeates...Priyanka: In the rain, how about a football movie?Vicky: That would be wonderful, indeed! You'll have to bake a football cake the next time!Priyanka: When you were shooting for Sam Bahadur, what did you delight in the most?Vicky: chaanp and biryani. And nolen gur is my all-time favorite flavor of ice cream.

Abdullah Khatoon: You've truly nailed Sam Manekshaw's demeanor and body language. How much work went into it, notably the lean-forward walk and the certain manner of speaking?

Vicky: A significant amount of research and development was involved in its creation. Meghna (director Gulzar) and I made the decision to start again when we sat down to prepare for the role. I had read the screenplay, heard anecdotes from Meghna and my parents, and I had even read the story, but I thought it would be better to start with the statement, "I don't know anything," and then gradually build it up brick by brick.

Every day, we would get together to work on the screenplay. We would meet his family, see his interviews, read books about him, and research his background online. I spent time with the grandson and daughter of Sam Manekshaw. Numerous tales were shared by them. The problematic issue was that Manekshaw had only done interviews after he had retired, at the age of 75 to 80. However, I had to portray him in the 20–60 age range.

Vickay Kaushal as Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw in Sam Bahadur

Prabhat Ghosh Given his young age, what allusions did you make?

Vicky: We couldn't stop watching his interviews. I would attempt to speak like him after writing down what he was saying as a script. I tried to imitate him at first. After that, I began the process of figuring out how he would speak if he were 40 or 50 years younger. It was crucial for me to not speak or move like Vicky Kaushal, and nothing had to look or feel like her. Meghna and I had a dialect coach, and we would all pile into the room and chat nonstop.

When Meghna thought I was sounding like myself, we would mark certain words and letters. I would simply keep going around the office and attempt to mimic his gait. His speech was incredibly Anglicized; it sounded almost like a British clipped accent. However, as this is a Hindi movie, we were unable to maintain English speech throughout. Thus, we had to interpret it according to his Hindi speech pattern.

It included practicing riyaaz every day, working like a musician, and meeting regularly so that by the time we get to the set and go on to the emotions, it would come naturally to us. The research for an army movie has to be good, and if it's one based on Sam Manekshaw, you best be prepared with your weapons and socks pulled.

‘FriYay’ was the mood and the ‘josh’ was on full display when Vicky Kaushal met Team t2 for an exclusive chat. In Calcutta to promote his upcoming film Sam Bahadur — that peeks into the mind of legendary Army man Sam Manekshaw and traces the heroics of the man often regarded as “India’s Greatest Soldier” — Vicky (whose filmography of just eight years already boasts stunners like Masaan, Raazi, Sardar Udham and Uri) was his usual warm and affable self, taking us through the mind and heart of ‘Sam Bahadur’, why the film is his “toughest” till date, what the support of his family means to him and what a chill day with wife Katrina Kaif looks like.

Before we sat down for the tete-a-tete at ITC Royal Bengal, in true t2 tradition, there were a host of cakes, courtesy Little Pleasures Patisserie. While one cake had a figure replica of Vicky as Sam Manekshaw in the December 1 release, the others represented the various aspects and avatars of his life. “Thank you! It’s lovely to start the day on such a sweet note,” smiled Vicky, sporting glares, a full beard and dressed in casuals.

Priyanka Roy: Welcome back! You shot a portion of Sam Bahadur in Calcutta, you came here for the Durand Cup and now you are starting your promotions for Sam Bahadur from our city. Have you discovered anything new about Calcutta during your recent trips here?

Vicky Kaushal: In the last one year, I have been to Calcutta the most number of times than I had ever been in the past. I love coming to Calcutta. I love the food, but unfortunately, I will not be able to indulge this time. I could indulge myself during the shoot of Sam Bahadur, though. I love coming here because of the culture and character of the city, the people are so sweet and cooperative. When I was shooting and came for the Durand Cup, they welcomed me with hearts open and one does feel like coming here again and again.

There is no genre in mind, but I want to shoot a film here when it is raining. There is something romantic about Calcutta rains. There is an old-school vibe and nostalgia...Priyanka: Maybe a football film in the rain?Vicky: Yes, that would be fantastic! So next time you will have to make a football cake as well!Priyanka: What did you indulge in the most here when you shot for Sam Bahadur?Vicky: Biryani and chaanp. And my most favourite ice-cream flavour in the world is nolen gur.

Farah Khatoon: You have really perfected the body language and mannerisms of Sam Manekshaw. What kind of effort went into that, especially that particular way of speaking and the lean-forward gait?

Vicky: There was a lot of R&D (research and development) that went into it. When Meghna (Gulzar, director) and I sat to prep for the part, we decided to start from scratch. I had heard stories from my parents, from Meghna and had read the script, but I was like, let me empty this vessel and start with: ‘I don’t know anything’, and now let’s fill it up, step by step, brick by brick.

We would meet up every day and jam on the script. We would watch his interviews, read books on him, google his story, meet his family... I spent time with Sam Manekshaw’s daughter and grandson. There were a lot of anecdotes from them. The tricky part was that all the interviews Manekshaw had given was after he had retired, when he was 75-80 years old. But I had to play him in the age group of 20-60.

Vickay Kaushal as Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw in Sam Bahadur

Pramita Ghosh: So what were your references for his young age?

Vicky: We kept watching his interviews again and again. I wrote down what he was saying as a script and then I would try and talk like him. It started with trying to mimic him. Then I started the process of decoding him, as in how he would talk if he was 40 years or 50 years younger than that. We had a dialect coach and Meghna and everyone would jam in the room together and keep talking where it was very important for me to not sound like myself, not walk like myself and nothing had to look or feel like Vicky Kaushal.

I would just keep walking in the office and try and get that walk right like him and whenever Meghna would feel like I am sounding like myself, we would mark those words and letters. He had a very Anglicised way of speaking, a sort of a British-clipped accent. But because this is a Hindi film, we couldn’t keep English dialogues throughout. So we had to decode it the way he would speak in Hindi.

It was a process of meeting and working like a musician and doing riyaaz every day so that it becomes second nature by the time we reach the set and focus on the emotions next. For an army film, the homework has to be strong and if it’s an army film based on Sam Manekshaw, you better come with your socks pulled and your ammunition ready.

MOODS AND MOMENTS

Vicky imitating Sam Manekshaw’s manner of sitting during the t2 chat

Vicky Kaushal visited Team t2 for an exclusive interview, and the vibe was "FriYay" and the "josh" was evident. Vicky, whose eight-year filmography already includes stunners like Masaan, Raazi, Sardar Udham, and Uri, was his usual warm and affable self, in Calcutta to promote his upcoming film Sam Bahadur, which delves into the mind of legendary Army man Sam Manekshaw and traces the heroics of the man often regarded as “India’s Greatest Soldier.” He took us through the mind and heart of “Sam Bahadur,” explaining why the film is his “toughest” to date, what his family support means to him, and what a relaxing day with wife Katrina Kaif looks like.

In keeping with t2 tradition, there were many pastries available prior to our tete-a-tete at ITC Royal Bengal, thanks to Little Pleasures Patisserie. Vicky's December 1st figure duplicate of herself as Sam Manekshaw was shown on one cake; the other cakes depicted other facets and personas from his life. “Many thanks! "It's nice to begin the day with such a pleasant note," said Vicky, who was wearing casual attire, sporting a full beard, and glares.

Roy Priyanka: Hi there again! You came to our city for the Durand Cup, where you filmed a chunk of Sam Bahadur, and now you are launching your Sam Bahadur marketing from here. During your recent visits to Calcutta, have you learned anything new?

Vicky Kaushal: I have visited Kolkata more times in the last year than I have in any previous history. I like visiting Calcutta. I wish I could eat more of the food, but alas, not this time. However, I could treat myself while Sam Bahadur was being filmed. The city's culture and charm, together with the kind and helpful locals, make me adore visiting. They greeted me warmly when I arrived for the Durand Cup while I was filming, and I felt compelled to return time and time again.

Though I don't have a certain genre in mind, I would want to make a movie here in the rain. The rains in Calcutta have a certain romantic quality. An air of nostalgia and old school vibes permeates...Priyanka: In the rain, how about a football movie?Vicky: That would be wonderful, indeed! You'll have to bake a football cake the next time!Priyanka: When you were shooting for Sam Bahadur, what did you delight in the most?Vicky: chaanp and biryani. And nolen gur is my all-time favorite flavor of ice cream.

Abdullah Khatoon: You've truly nailed Sam Manekshaw's demeanor and body language. How much work went into it, notably the lean-forward walk and the certain manner of speaking?

Vicky: A significant amount of research and development was involved in its creation. Meghna (director Gulzar) and I made the decision to start again when we sat down to prepare for the role. I had read the screenplay, heard anecdotes from Meghna and my parents, and I had even read the story, but I thought it would be better to start with the statement, "I don't know anything," and then gradually build it up brick by brick.

Every day, we would get together to work on the screenplay. We would meet his family, see his interviews, read books about him, and research his background online. I spent time with the grandson and daughter of Sam Manekshaw. Numerous tales were shared by them. The problematic issue was that Manekshaw had only done interviews after he had retired, at the age of 75 to 80. However, I had to portray him in the 20–60 age range.

In Sam Bahadur, Vickay Kaushal plays Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw.

In Sam Bahadur, Vickay Kaushal plays Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw.

Prabhat Ghosh Given his young age, what allusions did you make?

Vicky: We couldn't stop watching his interviews. I would attempt to speak like him after writing down what he was saying as a script. I tried to imitate him at first. After that, I began the process of figuring out how he would speak if he were 40 or 50 years younger. It was crucial for me to not speak or move like Vicky Kaushal, and nothing had to look or feel like her. Meghna and I had a dialect coach, and we would all pile into the room and chat nonstop.

When Meghna thought I was sounding like myself, we would mark certain words and letters. I would simply keep going around the office and attempt to mimic his gait. His speech was incredibly Anglicized; it sounded almost like a British clipped accent. However, as this is a Hindi movie, we were unable to maintain English speech throughout. Thus, we had to interpret it according to his Hindi speech pattern.

It included practicing riyaaz every day, working like a musician, and meeting regularly so that by the time we get to the set and go on to the emotions, it would come naturally to us. The research for an army movie has to be good, and if it's one based on Sam Manekshaw, you best be prepared with your weapons and socks pulled.

TEMPSTS AND MOODS

Vicky seated in the same way as Sam Manekshaw during the T2 talk

Vicky seated in the same way as Sam Manekshaw during the T2 talk

The Priyanka Did you start acting that way off-set as well?

Vicky: There was no pack-up in my body language. A short while into the shoot, I realized that I had begun to walk like him. There was a pause in our filming of Sam Bahadur, so I had to film a song for Zara Hatke Zara Bachke. When director Laxman sir (Utekar) would approach me and remark at my stance, I would realize that, even in Zara Hatke Zara Bachke, I was unintentionally walking like Sam Manekshaw! Sam had a tendency of crossing his legs when sitting, so I adopted that posture as well.

Hirah: Despite the differences in duties, did your experience with Uri—particularly the training portion—help you in Sam Bahadur?

Vicky: There are a lot of things I learned during my time in Uri that will be useful if I ever get to work on any military-themed movies. First of all, I learned about their personalities, methods of operation, manners, and behavior expected of military members. I had the opportunity to speak with several army officers both during and after the filming of Uri, which was very beneficial. All the fundamentals were covered when I learned about the hierarchy, levels, and designations. I also learned about the code of conduct that governs interactions between juniors and seniors.

Of course, there was also a different sort of research involved for Sam Bahadur. Unlike the operation-based movie Uri, this wasn't tangible. This was more about a guy, his mindset, his path, his glory, his legacy, his character, his mental clarity, and what made Sam the legendary person that he was. I was playing a major in Uri, and I became a Field Marshal in Sam Bahadur. And it is analogous to covering the army as a whole (hierarchy). I was required to do a kind of textbook study on every position, including what an army commander is, what their responsibilities were, and dos and don'ts. Here, the research was more academic, whereas in Uri, it was more hands-on and practical.

Ali Zeba Akhtar: You've now produced a couple movies that are centered on patriotic fervor and are based on the Army. Do you normally find yourself interested in these kinds of topics?

Vicky: I believe that. Subjects with images of native heroes—heroes we have in our own country—naturally appeal to me. The heroes that, in my opinion, every generation's young need to know about. They can't celebrate them until they know about them. Marvel superheroes are popular in Hollywood, but since our country has seen so much violence, we have created our own superheroes. India has changed as a nation as a result of the experiences of its citizens.

As a viewer, I find it intriguing to read narratives about our heroes that delight and educate me. And somewhere in there is the idea that we are here today because someone made a sacrifice and accomplished something that would benefit two generations from now on. I find myself watching such movies as an audience because I feel like I'm getting to accomplish something worthwhile as an actor.

I, Piya Roy About fifty years ago, according to the film, is when India's history was being told. Do you think the modern audience needs to learn any lessons that are concealed in this tale?

Vicky: A guy like Sam Manekshaw is ageless; his human values are eternal as well. His charm, humor, bravery, strength, and courage all came together to make him the man he was. Meghna informed me at our first encounter that guys like him are no longer made. Even today, there are still a lot of times when I feel stuck and I wonder, "What would Sam sir have done?" What action would he have taken in this kind of circumstance? His ability to make decisions was well-known.

The Priyanka Sam Manekshaw was not one to tolerate foolishness. He wasn't afraid to tell it how it is and to speak truth to power. Do you resemble him at all?

Vicky: With a grin, I wish I was. I am so very far from him. His goal was to deliver the message in a manner that would still astound the recipient, not to be blunt or call a spade a spade. There was a certain seriousness and wit, even in his harsh moments, to the point where you understood the message without taking offense.

Furthermore, after interacting with the Parsi community, I believe it to be a uniquely Parsi phenomenon. They are honest, forthright, and endowed with wit and humor. His family is rather forthright, so I was afraid they would remark, "Arre yaar, beizzati kara di," when we had to show them the movie. This made me quite anxious. That they were brought to tears after the movie made me very pleased.

Piya – What lessons have you learned most from your interactions with the Indian Army, particularly during the creation of Sam Bahadur?

Vicky: Their poise and timeliness really impress me. I've had the chance to spend a lot of time at army cantonments by this point. I spent four days at the Army cantonment in Pune before to we began shooting. They didn't treat me like a guest; instead, they referred to me as the newest cadet, or the "baby" of the unit. Though quite nice, they would come to my room at 5 a.m. and force me to run 3 kilometers! They forced me to do whatever they did. It seemed like chaos outside the fence. You get the impression that everything is organized and that this is a whole other planet and way of living.

Prana: How would you rank your own organization and discipline on a 10-point scale?

Vicky: I'm in the range of a six or seven. I would rate myself higher than 50%. I have both good and terrible days. I will diligently adhere to any rules and routines that come with playing a part. However, that luggage will serve as my "closet" for the next fifteen days if I travel and then return home! (Giggles) I don't wash my clothing or unpack them. All of my belongings go to the wash and come back from every hotel I stay at. Throughout, those outfits will be worn again.

Pramita: Did you alter your way of living in any way while filming this movie?

Vicky: I had to get up pretty early while we were in Calcutta. Here, the sun rises so early that daylight arrives by 5 a.m. Before that, we had to get up and go. We would have to get up at 2.30 am in order to get to the Barrackpore cantonment! When I'm in Mumbai, that's when I go to bed! (Giggles)

There is no time for self-centeredness while you are shooting. It is always structured; understanding the film's timetable is more crucial. As a result, you get up at the scheduled hour and go to bed after the shoot is over because you're exhausted. You spend fifteen to sixteen hours a day at work. Apart from the few hours of sleep you get, you really don't have any time for oneself when you include in the journey time.

Prana: Consider a scenario in which Uri's Vihaan Shergill and Sam Manekshaw cross paths. What do you suppose they will share with one another?

Vicky: I have no doubt that Vihaan would be speechless and in awe of Sam Bahadur, just as much as I am. Most likely, he will offer him a sharp salute. He would be open to hearing his story.

Vicky Kaushal and Katrina Kaif with Vicky’s family

Vicky Kaushal visited Team t2 for an exclusive interview, and the vibe was "FriYay" and the "josh" was evident. Vicky, whose eight-year filmography already includes stunners like Masaan, Raazi, Sardar Udham, and Uri, was his usual warm and affable self, in Calcutta to promote his upcoming film Sam Bahadur, which delves into the mind of legendary Army man Sam Manekshaw and traces the heroics of the man often regarded as “India’s Greatest Soldier.” He took us through the mind and heart of “Sam Bahadur,” explaining why the film is his “toughest” to date, what his family support means to him, and what a relaxing day with wife Katrina Kaif looks like.

In keeping with t2 tradition, there were many pastries available prior to our tete-a-tete at ITC Royal Bengal, thanks to Little Pleasures Patisserie. Vicky's December 1st figure duplicate of herself as Sam Manekshaw was shown on one cake; the other cakes depicted other facets and personas from his life. “Many thanks! "It's nice to begin the day with such a pleasant note," said Vicky, who was wearing casual attire, sporting a full beard, and glares.

Priyanka Roy: Glad to see you again! You came to our city for the Durand Cup, where you filmed a chunk of Sam Bahadur, and now you are launching your Sam Bahadur marketing from here. During your recent visits to Calcutta, have you learned anything new?

Vicky Kaushal: I have visited Kolkata more times in the last year than I have in any previous history. I like visiting Calcutta. I wish I could eat more of the food, but alas, not this time. However, I could treat myself while Sam Bahadur was being filmed. The city's culture and charm, together with the kind and helpful locals, make me adore visiting. They greeted me warmly when I arrived for the Durand Cup while I was filming, and I felt compelled to return time and time again.

Though I don't have a certain genre in mind, I would want to make a movie here in the rain. The rains in Calcutta have a certain romantic quality. There's a nostalgic, vintage feel about it. Priyanka: How about a football movie in the rain?Vicky: That would be wonderful, indeed! You'll have to bake a football cake the next time!Priyanka: When you were shooting for Sam Bahadur, what did you delight in the most?Vicky: chaanp and biryani. And nolen gur is my all-time favorite flavor of ice cream.

Farah Khatoon: You've truly nailed Sam Manekshaw's demeanor and body language. How much work went into it, notably the lean-forward walk and the certain manner of speaking?

Vicky: A significant amount of research and development was involved in its creation. Meghna (director Gulzar) and I made the decision to start again when we sat down to prepare for the role. I had read the screenplay, heard anecdotes from Meghna and my parents, and I had even read the story, but I thought it would be better to start with the statement, "I don't know anything," and then gradually build it up brick by brick.

Every day, we would get together to work on the screenplay. We would meet his family, see his interviews, read books about him, and research his background online. I spent time with the grandson and daughter of Sam Manekshaw. Numerous tales were shared by them. The problematic issue was that Manekshaw had only done interviews after he had retired, at the age of 75 to 80. However, I had to portray him in the 20–60 age range.

In Sam Bahadur, Vickay Kaushal plays Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw.

In Sam Bahadur, Vickay Kaushal plays Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw.

Pramita Ghosh: Given his early age, what sources did you use?

Vicky: We couldn't stop watching his interviews. I would attempt to speak like him after writing down what he was saying as a script. I tried to imitate him at first. After that, I began the process of figuring out how he would speak if he were 40 or 50 years younger. It was crucial for me to not speak or move like Vicky Kaushal, and nothing had to look or feel like her. Meghna and I had a dialect coach, and we would all pile into the room and chat nonstop.

When Meghna thought I was sounding like myself, we would mark certain words and letters. I would simply keep going around the office and attempt to mimic his gait. His speech was incredibly Anglicized; it sounded almost like a British clipped accent. However, as this is a Hindi movie, we were unable to maintain English speech throughout. Thus, we had to interpret it according to his Hindi speech pattern.

It included practicing riyaaz every day, working like a musician, and meeting regularly so that by the time we get to the set and go on to the emotions, it would come naturally to us. The research for an army movie has to be good, and if it's one based on Sam Manekshaw, you best be prepared with your weapons and socks pulled.

TEMPSTS AND MOODS

Vicky seated in the same way as Sam Manekshaw during the T2 talk

Vicky seated in the same way as Sam Manekshaw during the T2 talk

Priyanka: Did you begin speaking that way even away from the set?

Vicky: There was no pack-up in my body language. A short while into the shoot, I realized that I had begun to walk like him. There was a pause in our filming of Sam Bahadur, so I had to film a song for Zara Hatke Zara Bachke. When director Laxman sir (Utekar) would approach me and remark at my stance, I would realize that, even in Zara Hatke Zara Bachke, I was unintentionally walking like Sam Manekshaw! Sam had a tendency of crossing his legs when sitting, so I adopted that posture as well.

Farah: Despite the differences in duties, did completing Uri—particularly the training portion—help you in Sam Bahadur?

Vicky: There are a lot of things I learned during my time in Uri that will be useful if I ever get to work on any military-themed movies. First of all, I learned about their personalities, methods of operation, manners, and behavior expected of military members. I had the opportunity to speak with several army officers both during and after the filming of Uri, which was very beneficial. I learned about the ranks, titles, and hierarchy as well as how a junior should interact with a senior and what their respective codes of behavior are. hence all the prerequisites were met.

Of course, there was also a different sort of research involved for Sam Bahadur. Unlike the operation-based movie Uri, this wasn't tangible. This was more about a guy, his mindset, his path, his glory, his legacy, his character, his mental clarity, and what made Sam the legendary person that he was. I was playing a major in Uri, and I became a Field Marshal in Sam Bahadur. And it is analogous to covering the army as a whole (hierarchy). I was required to do a kind of textbook study on every position, including what an army commander is, what their responsibilities were, and dos and don'ts. Here, the research was more academic, whereas in Uri, it was more hands-on and practical.

Zeba Akhtar Ali: You've recently worked on a number of movies that are centered on patriotic fervor and the Army. Do you normally find yourself interested in these kinds of topics?

Vicky: I believe that. Subjects with images of native heroes—heroes we have in our own country—naturally appeal to me. The heroes that, in my opinion, every generation's young need to know about. They can't celebrate them until they know about them. Marvel superheroes are popular in Hollywood, but since our country has seen so much violence, we have created our own superheroes. India has changed as a nation as a result of the experiences of its citizens.

As a viewer, I find it intriguing to read narratives about our heroes that delight and educate me. And somewhere in there is the idea that we are here today because someone made a sacrifice and accomplished something that would benefit two generations from now on. I find myself watching such movies as an audience because I feel like I'm getting to accomplish something worthwhile as an actor.

Piya Roy: The movie narrates the tale of a period of around fifty years ago in Indian history. Do you think the modern audience needs to learn any lessons that are concealed in this tale?

Vicky: A figure such as Sam Manekshaw has ageless qualities; his charm, wit, bravery, power, and sense of humor all endure. The sum of all of these elements formed the guy that he was. Meghna informed me at our first encounter that guys like him are no longer made. Even today, there are still a lot of times when I feel stuck and I wonder, "What would Sam sir have done?" What would he have done in this kind of situation?He was renowned for his ability to make decisions.

Priyanka: Sam Manekshaw was not amenable to foolishness. He wasn't afraid to tell it how it is and to speak truth to power. Do you resemble him at all?

Vicky: With a grin, I wish I was. I am so very far from him. His goal was to deliver the message in a manner that would still astound the recipient, not to be blunt or call a spade a spade. There was a certain gravity and humor, even in his severe moments... to the degree that the message was understood by you and you did not take offense.

Furthermore, after interacting with the Parsi community, I believe it to be a uniquely Parsi phenomenon. They are honest, forthright, and endowed with wit and humor. His family is rather forthright, so I was afraid they would remark, "Arre yaar, beizzati kara di," when we had to show them the movie. This made me quite anxious. That they were brought to tears after the movie made me very pleased.

What have you learned most from your interactions with the Indian Army, particularly throughout the process of creating Sam Bahadur?

Vicky: Their poise and timeliness really impress me. I've had the chance to spend a lot of time at army cantonments by this point. I spent four days at the Army cantonment in Pune before to we began shooting. They didn't treat me like a guest; instead, they referred to me as the newest cadet, or the "baby" of the unit. Though quite nice, they would come to my room at 5 a.m. and force me to run 3 kilometers! They forced me to do whatever they did. It seemed like chaos outside the fence. You get the impression that everything is organized and that this is a whole other planet and way of living.

Pramita: How would you rank your own organization and discipline on a scale of 10?

Vicky: I'm in the range of a six or seven. I would rate myself higher than 50%. I have both good and terrible days. I will diligently adhere to any rules and routines that come with playing a part. However, that luggage will serve as my "closet" for the next fifteen days if I travel and then return home!I don't clean my clothes or unpack them. I laugh. All of my belongings go to the wash and come back from every hotel I stay at. Throughout, those outfits will be worn again.

Pramita: Did you alter your way of living in any way while filming this movie?

Vicky: I had to get up pretty early while we were in Calcutta. Here, the sun rises so early that daylight arrives by 5 a.m. Before that, we had to get up and go. We would have to get up at 2.30 am in order to get to the Barrackpore cantonment! When I'm in Mumbai, that's when I go to bed! (Giggles)

There is no time for self-centeredness while you are shooting. It is always structured; understanding the film's timetable is more crucial. As a result, you get up at the scheduled hour and go to bed after the shoot is over because you're exhausted. You spend fifteen to sixteen hours a day at work. Apart from the few hours of sleep you get, you really don't have any time for oneself when you include in the journey time.

Pramita: Envision a scenario in which Uri's Vihaan Shergill and Sam Manekshaw cross paths. What do you suppose they will share with one another?

Vicky: I have no doubt that Vihaan would be speechless and in awe of Sam Bahadur, just as much as I am. Most likely, he will offer him a sharp salute. He would be open to hearing his story.

Katrina Kaif and Vicky Kaushal together Vicky's family

Katrina Kaif and Vicky Kaushal together Vicky's family

Zeba: You've worked on a number of early, career-defining films. How does one place Sam Bahadur?

Vicky: Given the weight of responsibility that comes with portraying that role and the amount of effort that the whole team—not just myself—put in, Sam Bahadur has to be the hardest. That Meghna was the ship's captain makes me very happy. She has completed her schoolwork with extreme care and diligence, making her the most serious and studious student. Every single badge, award, outfit, button, shoelace, hairstyle, mustache style—she was quite picky about it all! You thus believe that if you perform your part well, everything combined will seem even better since you are surrounded by a crew that is so concerned about the tiny aspects because everything needs to appear very authentic.

I consider myself lucky to have had the opportunity to work on movies of which I am really proud. That ranking would have Sam Bahadur at the top. I can confidently inform the next generation that I was the actor who had the opportunity to portray a guy who was similar to Sam Bahadur!

Priyanka: What type of voice, all her own, does Meghna bring to this movie?

Vicky: Sam is being interviewed by his grandson, who inquires about what, in Sam's opinion, is his greatest accomplishment. He said that he had never chastised anybody in his forty years as an Army officer. Meghna gives that heart and compassion to every army film, war film, or biography that fits the description of this movie. Meghna would instruct me in every scenario, focusing on that loving heart of his.

Farah: We have seen you embrace a broad range of appearances on screen, from the clean-shaven child in Masaan to the blue-haired DJ in Manmarziyaan, from the thin mustache in Raazi to the Sardar Udham look to the tapori style in Govinda Naam Mera. To what extent can prosthetics, makeup, and costumes help you become a character?

Vicky: I find it really helpful. The setting and geography all work very well for me, as does my appearance and what I'm wearing. As a routine, as I got ready for Sam Manekshaw, I would sit in the van, look in the mirror, and remind myself, "This is Sam; you're not going to try to be Sam." Sam is the guy in the mirror. He loved jazz music and was generally a pretty private person. But now I know a lot of jazz music, and I have a jazz playlist. I would so play a lot of jazz music before the shot for at least fifteen minutes; I had even made a playlist for it. And as Sam, I would get out of the vehicle. I was in a contemplative state of mind as a result of observing my whole appearance in the mirror—the uniform, the eyes, the mustache... When you consider everything together, it just serves to support your belief that you are that persona.

Naturally, prior to that, you are in the mindset and process that mujhe yeh karna hai. However, performers have a very subjective little meditative process once they put on their costumes. That's when, at least for me, I start to claim that I am that person today.

Pramita: In terms of appearance, why is your beard so full? Have you given much thought to No Shave November?

Vicky: Why am I turning into a bear now? This is not being lazy, she laughs. This is for a movie called Chaava that I am currently filming. It is based on the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

Zeba: We are aware of your strong familial ties. To what extent does your family accept and mourn your accomplishments? And how do you feel about their opinion?

Vicky: I always value their comments much since they provide me with a great deal of stability and confidence. They say, "Yaar, jo mann mein aaye, jo achha lage woh karo." We don't sit down and debate whether the script is correct or not. Even when there has been a disagreement, the conclusion is always the same: "Khaana kha aur so jaa." "Subah uth ke Bhagwan ka naam le aur jo sahi lage woh kar de." They're so straightforward about it, and their assurance helps me feel really grounded.

They say things like, "Haan, chal gayi bahut achha," and if they don't, that's OK, we go on to the next topic of conversation. It's not as though a triumph is excessively praised or a setback causes excessive grief inside the household. However, my parents insist that in order for them to focus on the movie, they must see each movie at least three times. Pehle do teen dafaa, all they're looking at is me and my role on TV!

Priyanka: Do you monitor your films' box office results closely? Katrina is renowned for having extensive knowledge of the film industry's business side.

Vicky: Having a great deal of experience comes with certain things. I'm just now beginning to grasp these concepts. In the past, I would have been content with the possibilities that presented themselves. How much money we wouldn't be able to earn with such chances. Apna kaam dikhane ka aur main uss pe focussed tha, mujhe mauka mil gaye.

However, because this is the entertainment industry, it is only natural to desire a producer to make money off of a film on which he has invested a significant amount of money. While box office performance is important, having a film that people connect with is ultimately what gives you piece of mind. These days, a movie succeeds if its audience finds it appealing; if not, it fails to meet box office expectations.

Piya: What would you include in a showreel of your greatest on-screen moments to date?

Vicky: I'm a big self-indulger. Poor, poor image, it's not very good! (Laughs) Of course, it would include a few quotes from Masaan. the moments with the balloon sequence and "yeh dukh kaahe khatam nahin hota." Next, the scene in Raazi when I (Bhatt) and Alia (Vicky's character Iqbal) discover she is a spy... That was really excellent writing, in my opinion. For me as an actor, the whole Jallianwala Bagh scene in Sardar Udham is one of the most significant. It was something different entirely, particularly the chance to collaborate with Sircar Shoojitda.

I can very clearly recall the day before I began filming for Manmarziyaan. In actuality, the film's narration arrived a day before we began filming. By then, Maine would have been further along. "Tu baal neele kar le aur Amritsar aa jaa," said filmmaker Anurag Kashyap. "I knew that it is a love triangle, I knew that (the character) was this carefree guy and a DJ." However, I had no idea what the conversations meant or what my role was. I was terrified the night before the filming since I had colored my hair and didn't know anything about the movie, which meant I wouldn't be able to obtain any further acting employment! (Giggles)

But as an actor, the movie gave me the greatest insight. I persuaded myself that Anurag Sir had just stated, "Trust me, just be the character." I made the decision to go, have fun, and give myself up completely. That altered the course of my next many films. I discovered that all I needed to do was empty myself, return, and begin studying once again, and that really helped. That movie will be very unique. There are a lot of moments in Sam Bahadur as well, but I'll discuss them with you after the movie comes out.