Mumbai: Well-known Bollywood filmmaker Rajkumar Hirani reveals that he was initially not sure of casting boxer Ritika Singh in his upcoming production Saala Khadoos.
In the movie, R Madhavan essays the role of a boxing coach and national-level kick-boxer Ritika Singh is the leading lady of the movie.
The makers auditioned nearly 100 athletes and zeroed in on Ritika.
"Initially, I was apprehensive about the acting part. I was reluctant (as) I wanted an actor as the film is not about boxing alone, it also has difficult scenes.
But Madhavan and (director) Sudha (Kongara) were adamant that they wanted a real boxer. Madhavan and Sudha wanted a real boxer so that the fights could (be) real," Hirani told reporters here at the promotional event of Saala Khadoos.
"They wanted me to see the auditions. I saw her (Ritika's) clipping and I think she was good. We took a chance," he said.
The film directed by Sudha Kongara is all set to release on January 29, 2016. "I was surprised when I saw her (Ritika's) work," he quipped. Hirani is known to make films that have a social message, but "Saala Khadoos" is quite different.
"I make feel good films. Sports films are inspiring, they are story of underdogs who come out as a winner. In films there are no fights but people will love this film," he added.
Like every film Saala Khadoos" too would have a message.
"It is about fighting odds, consequences and staying focused to achieve things," he added.
(With agency inputs)
