In the high-stakes world of Bollywood, where box-office numbers often overshadow the nuances of acting, Saqib Saleem has stepped forward to offer a grounded perspective on two of the industry’s most distinct performers: Ranveer Singh and Akshaye Khanna.
Saleem, who shared the screen with Singh in the ambitious sports drama ’83, recently sat down for an interview with RVCJ Movies to discuss the evolving landscape of Indian cinema. During the conversation, he delved into the contrasting energies of his peers, particularly in light of the massive success of the recent blockbuster Dhurandhar, directed by Aditya Dhar.
Saleem spoke with significant warmth about his experience working alongside Ranveer Singh. Recalling the grueling schedule of ’83, where Singh played captain Kapil Dev amidst an ensemble of over a dozen actors, Saleem praised Singh’s ability to anchor a team.
“Ranveer is a man of gold,” Saleem remarked.
“His heart is beaming with love for everyone. ’83 was a tough film—managing a cast of 14 actors is something most stars aren’t used to—but he has the best energy. He’s a great collaborator who would genuinely help me with my scenes.”
Saleem noted that despite Singh’s superstar status, the actor remains deeply connected to his colleagues. He recalled a chance meeting at a Diwali party where the camaraderie was as strong as ever, describing Singh as someone who greets friends with a “tight hug” and genuine joy.
The conversation inevitably turned to Dhurandhar, the film that has shattered box-office records, recently crossing the ₹1,700 crore mark. While both Ranveer Singh and Akshaye Khanna delivered powerhouse performances in the film, Saleem offered a nuanced critique of their different styles.
Akshaye Khanna, known for his intense and often enigmatic screen presence, has been a subject of industry chatter regarding his temperament. Saleem was quick to defend his former co-star. “I’ve had a pleasant experience with him,” Saleem said. “He is a man of few words, but he is a fine actor. I know the quality he brings to the table.”
However, when pushed to choose a standout performance from the film, Saleem leaned toward Singh’s portrayal.
“Akshaye is great in Dhurandhar, but what I saw in Ranveer’s performance—the restraint, the eyes, the vulnerability, and the strength—it was a truly fulfilling performance.”
The comparison highlights three very different paths in the Hindi film industry:
Ranveer Singh: The “chameleon” who balances high-octane energy with deep emotional vulnerability. His career has been defined by a willingness to disappear into transformative roles, from historical epics to gritty modern dramas.
Akshaye Khanna: The “minimalist” who relies on subtlety and internal dialogue. Khanna has often chosen a reclusive path, appearing in select projects that allow him to showcase a brooding, intellectual intensity that few can match.
Saqib Saleem: The “reliable collaborator” who has built a steady reputation through character-driven roles in films like Mere Dad Ki Maruti and ’83. His perspective offers a bridge between the superstardom of Singh and the seasoned craft of Khanna.
As Dhurandhar 2 continues its record-breaking run, chasing the ₹1,100 crore milestone in its own right, the debate over acting styles remains a hot topic among fans. For Saleem, however, the takeaway is simple: the industry is at its best when it allows for both the explosive energy of a Singh and the quiet precision of a Khanna.
The success of these actors reflects a shifting trend in Bollywood where “resonance” is becoming as important as “revenue.” As producer Harman Baweja recently noted regarding his own projects, the commitment of actors like Saleem and his contemporaries is what ultimately translates to a lasting impact on the audience.
In an era of sequels and massive franchises, the personal insights from actors like Saqib Saleem remind audiences that behind the billion-rupee budgets are individual artists striving to find the “restraint” and “strength” that make a performance truly memorable. To
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