Vijay Varma is set to share the screen with Naseeruddin Shah in Gustaakh Ishq, a collaboration he describes as deeply personal. The actor has often spoken about looking up to Shah since his FTII days, and working with him has been a long-awaited milestone.

“In the west, it’s Al Pacino, and in India it’s Naseeruddin Shah”: Vijay Varma on working with his idol inGustaakhIshq

When asked what the experience meant to him, Vijay said, “It feels like I’m living a fantasy. He’s a cinema god. What has he not done? No one has been able to reach him in terms of sheer craft and abilities.” He also praised the veteran actor’s versatility across languages and his continued dedication to theatre and teaching. “I’ve never seen such a passionate actor. I think in the West, it’s Al Pacino, and in India it’s Naseeruddin Shah,” he added.

Vijay has previously recalled waiting outside one of Shah’s lectures for hours during his film school days, hoping to learn from him. With Gustaakh Ishq, he finally shares the frame with the actor he long admired, making the project a meaningful moment in his journey.

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