Happy New Year cast comes to Dubai

The cast of the much-awaited Diwali blockbuster Happy New Year -- Deepika Padukone, Shah Rukh Khan, Abhishek Bachchan, Sonu Sood, Boman Irani, Vivaan Shah and director Farah Khan -- walked into the Silk Ballroom at the Atlantis, The Palm Dubai, yesterday to talk up the movie ahead of the grand exclusive invite-only premiere at the same venue. But for the gathered media and sponsors it was a sombre sight as the team displayed little or none of the camaraderie that was so evident in the months leading up to the film’s release.

They appeared disconnected from each other, and though the normally genial Shah Rukh Khan turned out to be his trademark eloquent self while answering questions, he did not smile often and seemed preoccupied. A major portion of the heist comedy was shot in Dubai, with Atlantis the Palm figuring prominently in the proceedings.

Farah said: “Dubai is one of my most favourite cities, especially since we’re so emotionally connected to it, having shot Happy New Year over here. When we wrote the script there were six characters and the seventh character was definitely Dubai… and Atlantis the Palm. The film wouldn’t have been possible if we hadn’t been allowed to use this iconic place in the climax.”

Shah Rukh was also all praise for the city. “It’s not even a second home, it’s home. Dubai presents itself in the most beautiful way. It’s the new hub of the world. I feel a lot of love here. I’m so glad that Farah made this film.”

Deepika evidently enjoyed being the only girl in the ensemble cast. “Look at these men. I don’t think I’ve ever felt so special. It’s an amazing group, so protective, so caring. I’m going to miss all the attention that was given to me. They have involved me in everything that they’ve done -- even a guy thing like playing videogames. This film has been one of my most special experiences.”

On what drives him, Shah Rukh said: “The only thing that drives all of us is to be able to present to people some kind of happiness, satisfaction, and entertainment. Every film that you make, you always feel you can do a better job, and that’s what drives me. I want to be able to make more people happy the next time.”

Abhishek said he preferred a multi-starrer to a solo role. “You have a group of like-minded actors who get along; no one is trying to outshine the other, everyone respects each other’s space. You work collectively towards making a great film. That is always going to be more fun.”

An obvious display of emotion from Boman Irani broke the ice a bit, which left us wondering if it was the prospect of parting from each other post the film release that had put a dampener on the mood of the team.

“This is for all of you. I will love you and miss you,” he said, adding that Happy New Year was “not a cinematic but a human experience”.

Copyright: khaleejtimes.com