Vicky Kaushal’s Self-Doubt: Believed He Wasn’t Attractive Enough for Sam Manekshaw's Role In ‘Sam Bahadur’

Vicky Kaushal overcame self-doubt, embracing the challenging role of Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw in 'Sam Bahadur,' capturing his compassionate leadership.

Written by: Shivani Kumari

Edited by: Krutarth Ghosalkar

Last Updated: November 08, 2023

Summary: Vicky Kaushal, cast as Field Marshall Sam Manekshaw in Meghna Gulzar's forthcoming film, answered a series of media inquiries during the trailer launch event.

On Tuesday, actor Vicky Kaushal revealed that he initially doubted his suitability for the role of Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw in Meghna Gulzar's movie "Sam Bahadur," considering himself not conventionally handsome enough for the part. Kaushal made this admission during the trailer launch event at Mumbai's Manekshaw Centre, recalling how Gulzar had expressed her intention to create a biopic on Manekshaw while they were working on their 2018 film "Raazi."

"While working on 'Raazi' in Patiala, Meghna shared her plan to make a film about Sam Manekshaw. I, being from Punjab, knew of him but had never seen his picture. When I Googled him, I thought, 'He's very handsome, and I won't get this role.' But I'm thankful to Meghna for giving me the opportunity to play this dashing character," said Kaushal.

The trailer launch had Army Chief General Manoj Pande and the presence of Vicky Kaushal's co-stars Sanya Malhotra and Fatima Sana Shaikh, director Meghna Gulzar, and producer Ronnie Screwvala.

"Sam Bahadur" will portray Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw's remarkable 40-year career, from World War II to his pivotal role as Chief of Army Staff during the 1971 Indo-Pakistan war. Vicky Kaushal, who plays the lead, described it as his most challenging role due to embodying the man's essence, emphasizing it as a collective effort.

Vicky Kaushal aimed to depict Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw's compassionate nature on screen. He highlighted Manekshaw's unique achievement of never punishing a soldier in his 40-year career. Kaushal's preparation involved studying Manekshaw's physical traits and understanding his spirit, aided by extensive research and discussions with director Meghna Gulzar and meetings with Manekshaw's family members.

Vicky Kaushal and Meghna Gulzar's trust has remained strong since "Raazi." Sanya Malhotra finds the 2023 special, starring in two great films, "Jawan" and "Sam Bahadur," along with "Kathal." Fatima Sana Shaikh, like many, was initially unaware of Field Marshal Manekshaw's story.

Sanya Malhotra and Fatima Sana Shaikh grew as actors after "Dangal." They overcame challenges, and "Sam Bahadur" was released on December 1, produced by RSVP Movies.