Akshaye Khanna has always been celebrated for his meticulous approach to acting, and his work in Dhurandhar (2025) is no exception. In a candid revelation from co-star Aditya Uppal, Khanna requested a powerful slap during a high-intensity action scene to ensure authenticity. This bold move highlights his dedication to realism, the trust he builds with his co-stars, and the lengths he goes to make cinematic moments feel genuinely impactful. Beyond the slap, Dhurandhar showcases intense action sequences, emotional drama, and a stellar ensemble cast, making it one of Bollywood’s most talked-about releases of the year.
Akshaye Khanna’s Commitment to Realism
Akshaye Khanna has long been recognized for his nuanced performances and attention to detail. In Dhurandhar, this dedication is evident not only in his portrayal of Rehman Dakait but also in the behind-the-scenes decisions he makes to heighten realism. According to co-star Aditya Uppal, Khanna insisted that he be slapped harder than usual during an intense van scene.
Uppal shared in a recent podcast that he initially hesitated, worried about causing harm to the senior actor in the cramped vehicle. Khanna, however, reassured him, saying, “Tez se maaro, main gir nahi raha hu” (“Hit me properly, I’m not falling”), encouraging Uppal to give the scene full intensity. This insistence ensured that the final shot carried genuine impact, demonstrating Khanna’s focus on authenticity over mere comfort.
The Scene That Made Headlines
The slap scene occurred in a confined van during one of the film’s most charged action sequences. While the final edit trimmed some of the take, the energy and intensity of Khanna’s performance remain palpable on screen. The scene captures the high stakes of the narrative, where Rehman Dakait’s dominance and the tension between characters are amplified by Khanna’s willingness to physically commit.
This dedication not only enhanced the cinematic realism but also left a lasting impression on viewers, reinforcing Khanna’s reputation as an actor who fully immerses himself in challenging roles.
Aditya Uppal’s Perspective
For Aditya Uppal, who plays Omar Haider in the film, this moment was both nerve-wracking and illuminating. Uppal admitted that hitting a senior actor with such force was intimidating, but Khanna’s calm assurance made him comfortable enough to perform the scene without reservation.
Uppal noted that Khanna’s professionalism and focus created a collaborative atmosphere, turning what could have been a simple stunt into a moment of genuine dramatic intensity. This anecdote reflects the trust and camaraderie built on set, which ultimately translates into more compelling performances on screen.
Why Khanna Chooses Authenticity
Akshaye Khanna’s insistence on realism is not about ego; it’s about storytelling. By experiencing the physicality of a scene, Khanna ensures that his reactions, expressions, and timing are organic. This philosophy elevates the film, allowing audiences to feel the tension, stakes, and emotional weight of each moment.
In a film like Dhurandhar, which blends high-octane action with complex character dynamics, authenticity in physical performances makes the story more immersive and emotionally resonant. Khanna’s approach exemplifies a commitment to craft that resonates both with co-stars and viewers alike.
Rigorous Training and Preparation
The slap scene was just one example of the extensive preparation the cast underwent for Dhurandhar. Actors received detailed training for weapons handling and action sequences to ensure both safety and realism. Aditya Uppal, for instance, trained with firearms like Glock pistols and learned proper handling techniques, which added credibility to his portrayal of an officer in tense situations.
This preparation reflects the film’s broader dedication to authenticity, combining physical training, choreographed action, and emotional depth to create a believable and engaging narrative.
Khanna’s Broader Impact on Set
Beyond his own performance, Khanna’s commitment sets a standard for professionalism on set. His willingness to undergo intense physical sequences encourages co-stars to elevate their own performances, fostering a collaborative environment where authenticity is paramount.
His interactions with the ensemble — including actors like Ranveer Singh, Sanjay Dutt, and R. Madhavan — demonstrate a balance of leadership and humility, showing that dedication to craft can inspire excellence in those around you.
Audience Reactions to BTS Stories
Fans have reacted enthusiastically to Khanna’s behind-the-scenes anecdotes, including the slap story. Social media buzz highlights the respect audiences have for actors who commit fully to their roles, while also satisfying curiosity about how challenging scenes are executed in real life.
These stories deepen engagement with the film, offering viewers insight into the risks and dedication involved in creating cinematic moments that feel visceral and authentic.
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Critical Appreciation of Khanna’s Performance
Critics have praised Khanna for his portrayal of Rehman Dakait, noting the intensity, nuance, and subtle menace he brings to the role. His willingness to physically immerse himself in scenes like the slap sequence enhances the film’s tension and dramatic impact.
By balancing emotional depth with raw physicality, Khanna delivers a performance that stands out even amidst a strong ensemble cast, reinforcing his status as one of Bollywood’s most versatile and committed actors.
Other Notable BTS Moments
Another story from the set involves actress Saumya Tandon, who plays Khanna’s on-screen wife. During an emotionally charged scene, Tandon performed a hard slap, encouraged by both director Aditya Dhar and Khanna himself. This mutual trust and commitment to authenticity ensured that the scene’s emotional impact resonated with audiences, highlighting the collaborative effort behind the film’s most memorable moments.
These behind-the-scenes details not only entertain fans but also emphasize the rigorous work that goes into creating high-quality cinematic experiences.
Why Behind-The-Scenes Stories Matter
BTS stories like Khanna’s slap reveal the human element behind film-making: trust, preparation, and vulnerability. They also demonstrate how actors go beyond mere performance to inhabit their characters fully, often taking risks to ensure scenes are believable and emotionally resonant.
For audiences, these insights deepen appreciation for the craft, highlighting the dedication required to bring complex stories like Dhurandhar to life.
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FAQs
Why did Akshaye Khanna ask his co-star to slap him hard?
To ensure the scene looked authentic and impactful on screen, he encouraged Aditya Uppal to give the slap full force.
Who shared this story?
Co-star Aditya Uppal shared the anecdote in a podcast about working on Dhurandhar.
Was the slap included in the final cut?
Yes, though the take was trimmed for cinematic pacing, the intensity remains visible in the scene.
Did actors train for action sequences?
Yes, cast members underwent weapons and action training to ensure safety and realism during high-intensity scenes.
Who directed Dhurandhar?
The film was directed by Aditya Dhar.
Is Dhurandhar successful at the box office?
Yes, the film has crossed significant global box office milestones, including earnings over Rs 800 crore.
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I’m Atul Kumar, founder of Cine Storytellers and an entertainment creator with 5+ years of experience. I cover films, celebrities, music, and OTT content with a focus on accurate, ethical, and engaging storytelling. My goal is to bring readers trustworthy entertainment news that informs, inspires, and goes beyond gossip.
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