Vivek Oberoi reveals initially rejecting Saathiya; recalls Rani Mukerji getting star treatment while he “changed in hotel washrooms”

Vivek recently looked back on his career in the film industry, spanning over 22 years, sharing captivating stories from his journey. Although he has shifted his focus to business endeavours in recent years, amassing a net worth of over Rs 1200 crores, he took the time to reflect on his acting experiences, particularly the role Vivek Oberoi played in Saathiya, as well as a memorable encounter with fans.

Vivek Oberoi recalls rejecting Saathiya initially

In a conversation with SCREEN, Vivek Oberoid admitted that he initially turned down the opportunity to star in Saathiya. He recounted, “Shaad Ali, a childhood friend, reached out to show me something. He presented a tape of the Tamil film Alaipayuthey and told me he wanted me to play the role of Maddy. At that time, I was involved with the Company, so I declined. However, by the film’s end, I was in tears and desperate to be a part of it. After discussing with Mr. Verma, we worked things out, and I ultimately agreed to take on Saathiya.”

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Reflecting on the challenges faced during the film’s production, Vivek Oberoi shared, “Since Saathiya was a low-budget project, only Rani had access to a makeup van. I had to change in restaurant restrooms and hotel washrooms. I would do my touch-ups on the street. At that point, nobody recognized me, so I would carry the tripod on my shoulder alongside the crew. I often shot for 22-23 hours straight, napping on newspapers on a bench to stay fresh for the next scene.”

Vivek recalls being mobbed by fans

Vivek also recounted a chaotic incident when fans mobbed him. “On April 12, 2002, Company was released, and the following Sunday we were filming near Gaiety Galaxy’s railway channel for a scene where I chase Rani. It started as a regular shoot. But by midday, more fans began chanting ‘Chandu Bhai’. The small crowd quickly swelled to nearly 2000 people, overwhelming our security measures. I panicked as the shoot was at risk of being disrupted.”

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He added, “Shaad attempted to help by pushing me into Rani’s makeup van while I watched from the window as they recited my dialogues. Ultimately, the police were called, and they insisted I leave the area. As I was escorted away, Shaad told me to appreciate the moment because it meant I had become a star. Ironically, the police lifted me into their vehicle as if I were a common criminal. The following Sunday, we shot that same scene with proper police security.”

Vivek’s upcoming projects

On the professional front, Vivek Oberoi, who last appeared in the Indian Police Force, has begun work on Masti 4.

Also Read: Vivek Oberoi recalls how bouquets stopped coming when he was going through lean patch, says, “Dal-roti chalani hai, EMI bharna hai”