In a startling revelation, renowned filmmaker Apoorva Lakhia recently opened up about a challenging situation he faced during the making of the iconic film, Shootout at Lokhandwala. Lakhia disclosed that he had received pressure from certain producers to replace talented actor Vivek Oberoi from the film’s cast due to his well-known feud with Bollywood superstar Salman Khan. However, Lakhia stood his ground and refused to bow down to these demands.
Speaking candidly in an interview with Siddharth Kannan, Lakhia shared how multiple producers had approached him, insisting that he replace Oberoi or face professional consequences. Despite the mounting pressure, Lakhia remained true to his commitment to Vivek and firmly stood by his decision. He expressed his gratitude for the unwavering support he received from Sanjay Dutt, Suniel Shetty, and Sanjay Gupta during that challenging time.
Acknowledging the controversy surrounding Oberoi’s personal life, Lakhia emphasized that his casting decisions were solely based on an actor’s talent and professionalism. He recognized Oberoi’s acting prowess and affirmed that despite the mistakes he had made, the actor was exceptionally skilled. Lakhia commended Oberoi’s performance during their reading sessions and believed that he had delivered a fantastic job.
Shootout at Lokhandwala, which boasted an ensemble cast including Sanjay Dutt, Suniel Shetty, Arbaaz Khan, Tusshar Kapoor, Rohit Roy, Aditya Lakhia, Shabbir Ahluwalia, and Amitabh Bachchan, became a remarkable success. Lakhia confidently stated that those who had initially rejected him due to his decision to cast Vivek Oberoi would eventually return after witnessing the film’s triumph.
This incident serves as a reminder of Apoorva Lakhia’s unwavering integrity and commitment to his artistic vision. It showcases his determination to prioritize talent and professionalism over personal controversies, making a powerful statement in an industry often plagued by favoritism and politics.
As Shootout at Lokhandwala continues to be celebrated as a landmark film, Apoorva Lakhia’s decision to stand by Vivek Oberoi demonstrates the importance of staying true to one’s convictions, even in the face of adversity. It serves as an inspiring tale of artistic integrity and a reminder that talent should always be the driving force behind casting decisions in the world of cinema.
