Nana Patekar’s brilliant performance and impeccable comic timing in the 2007 film Welcome have made it one of his most beloved films over the years. His portrayal of Uday Shetty, with its unforgettable dialogues, has left a lasting impression. Recently, Welcome director Anees Bazmee revealed that Nana Patekar initially refused to even listen to the film’s script. The actor humorously asked the director to swear on his mother and say whether he should take the role.
In a recent interview, Anees Bazmee shared his experience working with Nana Patekar in Welcome. He recalled, “He wasn’t ready to hear the story.” Bazmee explained how, when he attempted to narrate the script, Nana responded with, “I don’t want to hear the story, Anees. Swear on your mother and tell me if I should do the film.”
Bazmee, a self-proclaimed “big fan” of Nana Patekar, expressed his deep admiration for the actor’s craft, stating that working with him was a great experience. He revealed that when he envisioned the role of Uday Shetty, he saw no one but Nana Patekar in the part. Although the actor had never attempted comedy before, Bazmee believed he could bring a fresh and unique style to the genre.
The director went on to share how Nana Patekar took his comedy role in Welcome very seriously. After a detailed three-hour script narration, Patekar was thrilled and became emotional, hugging Bazmee and asking him to guide him in shaping the character.
Welcome also featured Akshay Kumar, Katrina Kaif, Anil Kapoor, Feroz Khan, Mallika Sherawat, and others in key roles.
