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Vicky Kaushal, currently riding high on the success of his recent film "Bad Newz," began his cinematic journey as an assistant director to Anurag Kashyap on the acclaimed "Gangs of Wasseypur." In a recent conversation with comedian Tanmay Bhat on YouTube, Vicky shared some gripping anecdotes from his early days in the film industry, highlighting the gritty realities he faced while shooting the groundbreaking film.
One of the incidents Vicky recalled vividly was his near-encounter with the sand mafia during the filming of "Gangs of Wasseypur." He recounted how they were documenting illegal sand mining operations, a scene integral to the film's narrative. Vicky was struck by the brazenness of the operation—what appeared as a legitimate business with hundreds of trucks lined up, was, in fact, an illegal activity. While attempting to capture footage discreetly, their cover was blown. Surrounded by a crowd of 500 people, tensions escalated quickly. The camera operator, an elderly man, inadvertently alarmed the locals when he made a phone call for assistance. Mistaking it for a call to powerful allies, one individual seized the camera and threatened violence. Vicky and his team narrowly escaped a physical altercation, underscoring the dangers they faced in their pursuit of authenticity.
The challenges did not end there. Vicky recounted another nerve-wracking incident at Varanasi's railway station while filming a crucial sequence with Nawazuddin Siddiqui. Despite using a hidden camera setup in a van, their presence was detected by vigilant police officers. Realizing they had been compromised, Vicky swiftly ordered their retreat, avoiding potential arrest. These tense encounters underscored the risks associated with their guerrilla-style filmmaking approach—capturing real locations and moments but at the mercy of unpredictable real-world reactions.
Anurag Kashyap, the director of "Gangs of Wasseypur," had previously spoken about the film's unconventional production methods, emphasizing the use of hidden cameras to achieve a raw, documentary-like feel. This approach immersed viewers in the gritty milieu of crime and revenge in rural India but also placed the crew in perilous situations. Despite the challenges, the film's authenticity resonated with audiences and critics alike, becoming a milestone in Indian cinema.
Reflecting on the film's success, Vicky acknowledged the risks were worthwhile. "Gangs of Wasseypur" not only garnered critical acclaim but also developed a fervent fan base over the years. The film's depiction of complex characters, intertwined narratives, and stark realism left an indelible mark on Bollywood.
Vicky Kaushal's journey from behind the camera to the silver screen exemplifies the dedication and passion required in the film industry. His experiences during the making of "Gangs of Wasseypur" serve as a testament to the lengths artists go to capture the essence of their narratives authentically. As Vicky continues to ascend in his acting career, these early trials remain pivotal reminders of the transformative power of cinema and the courage it demands from its creators.
Also read: Review Of Bad Newz: A Rom-Com With Hits And Misses
