Aamir Khan reveals how Sakshi Tanwar was cast in Dangal
Mumbai: Aamir Khan Productions has shared an intriguing behind-the-scenes video revealing how television star Sakshi Tanwar landed her role in the 2016 blockbuster Dangal.
In the video, Aamir Khan and Sakshi Tanwar recount the story of how she was chosen to play Daya Kaur, wife of wrestler Mahavir Singh Phogat, in the biographical sports drama.
Aamir recalled that several actresses had auditioned for the part before he thought of Sakshi. “One day, I don’t know why, I thought of Sakshi Tanwar. When the scene was made, I was like, what have you done? I wasn’t expecting it at all,” he said.
He also credited his mother for inspiring the idea. “Actually, Sakshi was my idea. My mom used to like her a lot on television, so I told Niteshji, ‘Should we try Sakshi ji?’” Aamir revealed, referring to director Nitesh Tiwari.
Sakshi shared her own reaction to being approached for the role, saying, “When I was told that this is the character, I couldn’t believe that this could also be a pairing.” She recalled how Aamir personally welcomed her to the project, telling her, “Welcome, you’re on board.”
Praising her performance, Aamir said Sakshi often delivered flawless takes on the first try. “She’s amazing — a fantastic actress. You tell her small little changes, and she understands immediately and gives it perfectly. It’s not just skill; she does it with a lot of heart,” he added.
Reflecting on their effortless on-screen chemistry, Aamir said, “It just happened on its own, like different pieces of a puzzle coming together.”
The video ends with Aamir expressing gratitude for being part of Dangal: “One day, the universe decided to be generous, and I became a part of Dangal.”
Released in 2016, Dangal became one of the highest-grossing Indian films globally, earning widespread praise for its storytelling and performances.
