Actor Vivek Oberoi recently shared a candid account of the challenges he faced while filming the 2002 romantic drama Saathiya. Speaking to SCREEN, Oberoi reflected on the modest budget and how no one knew who he was.
“Saathiya was a small-budget film, and only Rani [Mukerji] had access to a makeup van,” Oberoi recalled. “I had to change in restaurant bathrooms and hotel washrooms. I did touch-ups on the streets, and nobody even recognised me back then. I’d carry the tripod on my shoulder and walk with the crew. At times, I shot for 22-23 hours non-stop. To look fresh, I’d put newspapers on a bench and catch a quick nap,” he said.
The actor also revealed how he initially turned down the film, which was directed by Shaad Ali and produced by Mani Ratnam and Yash Raj Films. “Shaad Ali was like a childhood friend,” Oberoi explained.
He added, “He showed me a tape of a Tamil film called Alaipayuthey and told me he was remaking it. He wanted me to play Maddy’s role [R Madhavan]. I was working on Company at the time and declined. But by the end of the movie, I was in tears. I spoke to Mr Verma [Ram Gopal Varma], and we figured it out. Finally, I signed Saathiya.”
The film, which went on to become a critical and commercial success, marked a significant milestone in Oberoi’s career. Its soulful soundtrack, composed by AR Rahman, and the chemistry between Oberoi and Mukerji remain etched in the hearts of audiences.
