After years of honing his craft through diverse web series, Tanuj Virwani finally saw his long-standing ambition to work under the illustrious Dharma Productions banner come to fruition. His casting in a substantial role is more than just fulfilling—it’s a testament to his unwavering commitment to his art. In the impending hijack thriller Yodha, led by renowned actor Sidharth Malhotra, Virwani is set to showcase his burgeoning talent to a wider audience.
Reflecting on the distinctive experience while working on Yodha, Virwani has pointed out the striking contrast with his previous projects, particularly those on digital platforms. Web series often demand a brisk pace, shooting multiple pages of dialogue each day. Yet, stepping onto the Yodha set introduced him to an environment where meticulous attention to detail ruled—rehearsals to scene blocking, each phase took its due time, allowing for an enriched production process.
Sagar Ambre and Pushkar Ojha, the directorial duo of Yodha, are credited with shaping this carefully crafted production ecosystem. Having paid their dues as assistant directors on the blockbuster Pathaan (2023) starring Shah Rukh Khan, among other major projects, they have consolidated their experience and are now well-prepared for their debut as lead directors. The endorsement by producer Karan Johar—himself a bastion of Indian cinema—is indicative of the trust and promise the duo has garnered. Virwani’s take on their partnership speaks of harmony and mutual understanding – the kind that ensures that no mixed messages or crossed communication affects the creative process. In fact, Virwani recounts that while one directed a scene, the other would conscientiously abstain from the set to preserve this balance.
The narrative of Yodha is predominantly confined to the tense surroundings of an aircraft, an element that necessarily involved facing the challenge of acting opposite a green screen for most of the scenes. This is where an actor’s imaginative faculties are tested to their limits. Yet, Virwani expresses his gratitude towards the directors, whose on-set live audio commentary provided a dynamic and vivid canvas on which he could project his reactions and emotions, adding depth and authenticity to his performance.
As the anticipation for Yodha mounts, so does the buzz around the performances and the overall execution under the guidance of directors who have resolutely climbed the ranks. The opportunity to emerge as a Dharma actor manifests not only Virwani’s personal milestone but promises to elevate his standing in the film fraternity. With a clear vision and an unwavering support system, this thrilling feature is poised to make waves upon its release, offering audiences a gripping narrative enriched by the dedication and passion of its cast and crew.
Tanuj Virwani’s reflection on his journey—from his early days maneuvering through the realm of digital entertainment to stepping onto the esteemed platform provided by Dharma Productions—depicts an artist dedicated to his trade, open to learning and adapting. The confluence of seasoned direction, a compelling script, and a dedicated ensemble cast is sure to make Yodha a cinematic experience to look out for. As the final product nears its unveiling, Virwani’s insights not only heighten the intrigue but also promise a film crafted with precision, passion, and an unwavering commitment to story-telling excellence.