Aamir Khan’s son, Junaid Khan, is finally stepping into the limelight, but his journey to his debut in the Netflix film Maharaj wasn’t easy. Although many outside the industry may not know, Junaid has been working tirelessly behind the scenes for years.
After completing a three-year degree in dramatics, Junaid immersed himself in theatre, refining his skills and gaining valuable experience. But theatre wasn’t his only focus. Since 2017, Junaid has been actively pursuing opportunities in the film industry, balancing his stage work with numerous auditions.
Junaid Khan Faced 7 Rejections Before Maharaj – Here’s How He Landed A Role In This Film
A source close to the industry revealed, “Junaid auditioned a lot but faced numerous rejections, including from his father’s home production Laal Singh Chaddha. Despite encountering seven significant rejections, the producer of his upcoming film stumbled upon one of Junaid’s previous audition tapes, offering him a chance to audition. However, even this opportunity came with certain conditions.”
The filming of Maharaj began in February 2021 and wrapped up within eight months. Since then, Junaid has been eagerly waiting for its release. His dedication and hard work were prominently displayed in the recently released poster of the film. The poster vividly showcases his passion and commitment to his craft.
Junaid’s journey has been challenging, marked by perseverance and determination. His efforts culminate in Maharaj, a film that promises to be a significant milestone in his career. The lingering question remains: will all this hard work pay off?
Bajrang Dal Raises Objections Against Junaid Khan’s Maharaj Ahead Of Release
Amid the release excitement, latest reports have emerged that the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) has expressed concerns about the film. According to Bollywood Hungama, the VHP’s youth wing, Bajrang Dal, has sent letters to the film’s producers, Yash Raj Films (YRF), and the streaming platform Netflix, requesting a pre-screening of the film before its global premiere on June 14.
On June 3, a letter was hand-delivered to Netflix and YRF by Gautam Ravriya, the coordinator of the Konkan region of VHP-Bajrang Dal. In the letter, it is expressed that the film’s poster creates an impression that a Hindu religious leader is being portrayed in a negative light. The author of the letter believes that the film may offend a section of the audience and could potentially lead to a law and order situation.
After the letter, Gautam Ravriya insisted that the VHP be granted the opportunity to view the film, following which they will decide on the appropriate course of action.
Gautam Ravriya has also shared videos on his Instagram handle, depicting the delivery of the letter to an official of Netflix outside the OTT platform’s office in Mumbai, in the presence of his supporters and police officers. In the video, he informs the Netflix official that if any objectionable content is found in Maharaj, VHP-Bajrang Dal will not allow its release.
Another video shows Gautam Ravriya and his supporters outside YRF Studios in Mumbai.
About Netflix’s Maharaj
Maharaj is directed by Siddharth P. Malhotra and produced by Yash Raj Films. It also stars Jaideep Ahlawat and Shalini Pandey in prominent roles.
Junaid Khan portrays investigative journalist Karsandas Mulji, while Ahlawat takes on the role of a king. Set against the backdrop of the 1862 Maharaja Libel Case, the movie promises an intense battle for truth and courage. Maharaj is scheduled for release on June 14 on Netflix.
Junaid Khan’s Upcoming Projects
Apart from Maharaj, Junaid Khan has been quite occupied with other projects. He has already wrapped up shooting for his second film, which co-stars Sai Pallavi and is filmed against the scenic backdrop of Japan’s Sapporo Snow Festival.
Additionally, Junaid is currently working on his third movie, a remake of the Tamil romantic comedy Love Today (2022), alongside Khushi Kapoor. Excitingly, he is also stepping into the role of a producer with Pritam Pyaare, a film that will feature an extended guest appearance by his father, Aamir Khan.
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