Taapsee Pannu, known for her strong, independent performances in films like Thappad and Pink, recently opened up about her experience working alongside Shah Rukh Khan in Dunki. In an interview with Aaj Tak, she shared her thoughts on balancing films where the burden of carrying the movie doesn’t rest solely on her shoulders.
Taapsee revealed that filmmakers often assume she wouldn’t be interested in projects featuring big stars. She said, “My managers tell me that people don’t approach me for films with big heroes because they think I won’t do them. But that’s not true.” Highlighting her experience in Dunki, she explained, “When I do a film like this, the pressure isn’t on me to make it work. With Hirani and SRK involved, I was relaxing. I want to do such films with substantial roles but without all the pressure.”
Dunki, directed by Rajkumar Hirani and co-produced by Shah Rukh Khan’s Red Chillies Entertainment, showcased Taapsee in a significant role while SRK took center stage. Released during Christmas 2023, the film also featured Vicky Kaushal in an extended cameo and became a box-office success, earning ₹470.6 crore globally.
While it was Taapsee’s only release in 2023, her collaboration with a cinematic giant like Shah Rukh Khan marked a refreshing change in her career trajectory. Balancing meaty roles with lighter creative pressure, Taapsee is proving her versatility and adaptability in Bollywood’s evolving landscape.
