Junaid Khan‘s first appearance in Maharaj has received acclaim from viewers and critics alike, making it one of the most-watched OTT films of 2024. The movie is praised for its engaging storyline and outstanding acting by Jaideep Ahlawat, Sharvari Wagh, and Shalini Pandey.
Jaideep Ahlawat’s depiction of Jadunath Maharaj has also received huge praise from the audience and critics.
NOT Jaideep Ahlawat, Irrfan Khan Was The 1st Choice For This Role
Jadunath’s character originally caught the attention of director Siddharth P Malhotra. He initially envisioned the late Irrfan Khan for the role. Speaking at a recent press conference for Maharaj, Malhotra revealed their original casting choice, saying, “God bless his soul. In our opinion, nobody could play this role but Irrfan Khan.”
Jaideep Ahlawat Was HESITANT To Take The Role
Despite the initial consideration, Jaideep Ahlawat’s convincing performance as Maharaj has earned him accolades.
Malhotra expressed the challenges in persuading Ahlawat to take on the role, recalling how the actor initially hesitated. “He was unsure how he would play it,” the director shared, emphasising the extensive effort put into convincing Ahlawat through detailed narrations of their vision for Maharaj.
Praising Ahlawat’s dedication, Malhotra described him as one of the finest actors in the country today. “He’s rightfully getting all the love he gets for every film,” he concluded.
About Maharaj
Maharaj is centered on the 1862 Maharaj Libel Case, focusing on journalist and social reformer Karsandas Mulji’s advocacy for women’s rights in pre-independence India. Junaid Khan takes on the role of Karsandas alongside the talented ensemble of Jaideep Ahlawat, Sharvari Wagh, and Shalini Pandey.
Directed by Siddharth P Malhotra and produced by YRF, the film faced initial delays due to legal challenges, with its Netflix release eventually scheduled for June 21 after a brief postponement by the Gujarat High Court from its original June 14 date.
(Also read: Maharaj: Netizens Laud Junaid Khan’s Portrayal Of Mulji In His Debut Film, Call It ‘Brilliant & Fabulous’)
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