Home / Arts and Entertainment / Chhabra's Casting Gamble: Khanna & Rampal Surprise
Chhabra's Casting Gamble: Khanna & Rampal Surprise
13 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Casting director's goal was surprising audiences with unexpected actor choices.
- Akshaye Khanna was ultimately chosen for a gangster role after much debate.
- Film spans real terror incidents like 26/11 and the Kandahar plane hijack.
Casting director Mukesh Chhabra revealed his strategy for 'Dhurandhar' involved surprising audiences through unexpected casting decisions. He confessed that significant time was spent debating the inclusion of actors like Arjun Rampal and Akshaye Khanna, aiming for a fresh and impactful selection.
The film's narrative is deeply rooted in serious geopolitical events, including the 2001 Parliament Attack and the 26/11 Mumbai attacks. Chhabra emphasized that the casting process for roles like Rehman Dakait, which attracted many actors, required careful consideration to ensure suitability and surprise.
Ultimately, Akshaye Khanna was chosen for the role of gangster Rehman Dakait, drawing from his critically acclaimed performances. This approach, Chhabra believes, highlights the importance of thorough deliberation in achieving exceptional casting outcomes for a film.
