Vir Das recalls witnessing impact of Imran Khan’s Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na impact on sets of Delhi Belly: ‘There would be at least 3000 girls waiting to see him’ |
Fourteen years after Delhi Belly turned Bollywood on its head with its edgy humour, wild plot, and iconic music, the team behind the cult comedy is looking back at the madness that made it unforgettable. In a recent reunion, Vir Das, director Abhinay Deo, and writer Akshat Verma sat down to revisit some of the film’s most chaotic scenes and reveal behind-the-scenes moments—from Imran Khan’s stratospheric stardom post-Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na, to Aamir Khan’s fearless production choices that pushed the budget and the team’s nerves to the limit.
Imran Khan’s Stardom Took Over the Set
The trio began by diving into the iconic apartment scene with Vijay Raaz, but not before Vir Das shared what it was like working alongside Imran Khan at the peak of his popularity. Fresh off the success of Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na, Imran was a nationwide heartthrob, and Vir recalled how shooting with him was unlike anything else. At every location, crowds of thousands—mostly young female fans—would gather just to catch a glimpse. Vir joked about sharing a vanity van with Imran, saying the cheers would instantly die down the moment he, with his bald head, stepped out instead. The conversation was accompanied by behind-the-scenes footage showing Imran being trailed by massive crowds as he walked toward the set.
A Risky Shot Without a Safety Net
As the discussion shifted to the chaotic apartment scene, director Abhinay Deo shared a concerning behind-the-scenes detail. During the early takes, Vir was filmed hanging from the ceiling by a tie, balancing on a high stool—without a safety harness. Deo noted that if Vir had lost balance or if Vijay had accidentally nudged the stool, it could have led to a serious accident. The trio chuckled over the close call, with Vir responding with his signature dark humour, and writer Akshat Verma chiming in that the film’s production was beginning to spiral financially at that point.
Aamir Khan’s Bold Fixes
Recalling the shoot’s logistical challenges, the team shared how finding suitable locations became a recurring issue. When they struggled to find a fitting hotel room for a scene, Aamir Khan simply decided to have it constructed. Later, when an appropriate apartment couldn’t be found, he suggested building that too. Writer Akshat Verma remembered raising concerns about the ballooning budget, only to be met with a puzzled expression from Aamir—one that seemed to silently wonder who this overly budget-conscious man on his set was.
