Introduction
Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh, known for his versatility and dedication to his craft, celebrates his 38th birthday today. As we look back on his journey, one particular interview stands out where he reminisced about his past experiences, including a peculiar request he made during the filming of the 2015 movie “Bajirao Mastani.” In this interview, Ranveer discussed a revelation made by his now-wife Deepika Padukone, shedding light on his unusual request on the film set.
Deepika Padukone had mentioned that Ranveer wanted everyone to address him as “Bajirao,” the character he portrayed in the film. Reflecting on this, Ranveer described the request as “bizarre” but acknowledged its significant impact on his performance.
Immersing himself fully into the character, Ranveer left no stone unturned in his preparation.
During the interview, Ranveer shared insights into the intricate process he underwent to fully immerse himself in the role of Bajirao I, the historical figure and Peshwa of the Maratha Empire. Transforming into such a distinctive character required a comprehensive approach that involved altering his appearance, body, voice, and accent.
Physical Transformation: The Art of Makeup and Costumes
Ranveer revealed that his physical transformation into Bajirao I was an elaborate process. Spending around two hours in his makeup room, he meticulously applied scars, eye makeup, earrings, angrakhas (traditional garments), and multiple layers of costumes. At one point, he even sported a fake mustache to further enhance his portrayal.
Vocal and Physical Exercises: Bringing Bajirao to Life
In addition to the external transformation, Ranveer engaged in rigorous vocal and physical exercises to truly embody the character. Before each shooting session, he would immerse himself in vocal exercises to perfect Bajirao’s distinctive voice. Furthermore, he diligently practiced physical exercises that helped him understand and emulate the unique mannerisms and body language of the historical figure.
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Expecting Everyone to Address Him as “Bajirao”
The intensity of the preparation was a new experience for Ranveer singh, who admitted that it had never taken him more than 30 minutes to prepare for his previous roles. Consequently, when he emerged from his makeup room fully transformed, he expected everyone on the set to address him as “Bajirao.” Ranveer humorously recounted how he playfully scolded the assistant directors if they referred to him by his real name, Ranveer, after his thorough preparation.
He expressed his disappointment at being reminded of his original identity when he had worked so hard to shed it and fully embody the character. Despite the peculiarity of the request, Ranveer emphasized that it significantly contributed to his performance.
A Journey of Collaboration: Ranveer and Deepika’s On-screen Chemistry
Apart from “Bajirao Mastani,” Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone have shared the screen in several films, marking a remarkable journey of collaboration and growth. It all began approximately a decade ago with the romantic drama “Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela.” In 2015, they reunited for the period film “Bajirao Mastani,” directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali. See full biography of Ranveer Singh here.
Deepika portrayed the character of Mastani, Bajirao’s second wife, while Priyanka Chopra played Kashibai, his first wife. The couple’s third collaboration with Bhansali was the epic historical drama “Padmaavat,” which also featured Shahid Kapoor. The on-screen chemistry between Ranveer and Deepika has been widely acclaimed, and their performances together have captivated audiences.
