Reel meets real: When Arjun Rampal aka ‘Daddy’ met the real daddy Arun Gawli

As National Award winning actor Arjun Rampal portrays the role of real-life gangster-turned-politician Arun Gawli, it was much needed for him to understand the mannerisms of the real daddy and observe him closely to pick the nuances of his character. So, his first meeting with Arun Gawli was nothing less than a dramatic one. Arjun met Arun when the latter was out on parole. Speaking about his experience of meeting the man he plays on screen, Arjun said, “I met him when he was out on parole. The first few times, he was slightly sceptical and I understood that he’s reserved because of his colourful past.”

Arjun’s first impression of Gawli was different from the image portrayed of him in the media. So, an intrigued Arjun started his research on Gawli and came across some interesting material. Said Arjun, “What I found interesting was that people called him ‘Daddy’. Usually they refer to a don as “Bhai ” or “Don” I realised that although dreaded, he had another side which intrigued me.” He further added, “He’s not flamboyant, doesn’t go to dance bars and blow up money on bar girls and mistresses. He’s spent half his life in jail but is a God-fearing, family man.” So one thing that really stood out for Arjun is that despite the fact that Gawli belonged to the underworld, he was in reality, a God-fearing man. He didn’t have any fear of the cops or rival gangs, but he was definitely scared of God. (Also Read: Arjun arranges for a special screening of ‘Daddy’ for his B-town buddies)

“At home, there are photographs of Gods everywhere, he is always praying,” added Arjun. So, the real image of Gawli is nowhere close to the one portrayed in the media. Arjun even realised that Gawli became a bit more comfortable with him after a bit hesitation initially. He said, “After a few meetings, he started opening up to me. I assured him that it wouldn’t be a propaganda story, I wanted to tell it the way it is, in a realistic manner. His consent convinced me this was a man with self-confidence.”

Prajakta Ajgaonkar

Passionate about writing, and a Bollywood lover, she is all that is sweet and endearing! She desires to put her best foot forward in everything that she does and loves to help anyone who’s in need.