'Nerve-wracking, like debuting again': Fardeen Khan on comeback through 'Heeramandi'
What's the story
After a 14-year break from the film industry, actor Fardeen Khan has made a successful comeback with his role in Heeramandi.
In a recent interview with Times Now, Khan described his return as both "nerve-wracking" and exciting, comparing it to "making a debut all over again."
Son of celebrated actor Feroz Khan, he is known for movies such as Heyy Babyy and No Entry, and quit showbiz after Dulha Mil Gaya (2010).
Comeback
Khan encountered a 'new landscape' upon his return
Speaking about his hiatus, he said, "Twelve years since I started working, fourteen years since my last release. Yeah, it sure feels like an exile now if you use the word. I adopted the attitude of a newcomer. I mean, a lot had changed. I was looking at a whole new landscape."
"You bring in more life experience. There's a certain confidence within you. You know, you separate the wheat from the chaff for yourself."
Working with SLB
How was it working with Sanjay Leela Bhansali? Khan revealed
On his association with Heeramandi creator Sanjay Leela Bhansali, he said, "t takes a bit of while to get a sense of his vision."
"You're acting for this grand vision that he has, which, you know, initially it takes you a while to really align with, with the way he sees things because he's looking at the grand vision. You know, he's already shot everything in his head and he knows it."
Digital revolution
Khan's opinion OTT platforms and new opportunities
Khan also discussed the impact of OTT platforms like Netflix on the film industry, noting how they have revolutionized viewing habits and opened up creative opportunities for actors, writers, and directors.
"I consider myself very fortunate to, you know, also have this opportunity to work again."
"You know, after twelve years you having certain inherent fears and insecurities. It is only but natural. "
Initial return
Khan's first project post-hiatus: 'Visfot'
Khan clarified that Heeramandi was not his first project after his return to acting. His initial comeback was marked by the film Visfot, produced by Sanjay Gupta's White Feather Films.
It's yet to be released.
"If I were to sum it up, I'm back with a renewed energy, an excitement of a newcomer, you know, eager, hungry."
"It's such a great time for movies," he added.
Gratitude
Khan's gratitude toward the industry and audience
Khan revealed that Visfot is the remake of the Venezuelan film Rock, Paper, Scissors.
He expressed gratitude for these opportunities and committed to working hard to live up to the trust placed in him.
Speaking about his selection for Heeramandi, he said, "I just couldn't believe that this was happening. I couldn't believe, I was in. I had this chance to work with Sanjay Bhansali on this [project] that everyone was talking about."