Shooting a romantic scene can be challenging for any actor, but for Shalini Pandey on the set of “Maharaj,” it presented a unique hurdle – darkness and a dash of fear. The actress, known for her role in “Arjun Reddy,” recently opened up about this experience while promoting the film, which has garnered positive reviews on OTT platforms.
“Maharaj,” a period drama based on a true story from the 1800s and directed by Siddharth Malhotra, stars Junaid Khan and Jaideep Ahlawat. In a recent interview, Shalini, brimming with joy over the film’s success, shared a funny anecdote from filming.
Describing her character Kishori, Shalini said, “She’s a wonderful character to portray.” However, during a scene that relied on natural lighting to create intimacy in a dark room, things took an unexpected turn. “I have a fear of darkness,” Shalini confessed, “and while filming that scene, it got the better of me!” Her candid admission highlights a relatable fear, even for those not facing the pressure of acting.
Shalini’s natural reaction was quite dramatic. “I couldn’t take it anymore,” she admitted. “I just got up and ran out!” Thankfully, director Siddharth Malhotra was understanding. He fostered a calming environment on set, allowing Shalini to overcome her fear and complete the scene professionally.
Looking back, Shalini finds humor in the incident. “It makes me laugh now,” she said. This behind-the-scenes story not only showcases Shalini’s dedication to her craft but also highlights the supportive environment director Siddharth Malhotra cultivated on the set of “Maharaj.”
