Tejas Vijay Deoskar, the director of the upcoming film Ground Zero, featuring Emraan Hashmi in the lead, recently opened up about the inspiration behind the film and his experience working with the actor. In an exclusive interview with Bollywood Hungama, Tejas shared insights into the conceptualisation of the film and praised Hashmi for his professionalism and approachability on set.
EXCLUSIVE: Tejas Vijay Deoskar opens up on casting Emran Hashmi in Ground Zero; says, “Working with Emraan Hashmi was a breeze”
Speaking about the genesis of Ground Zero, Tejas revealed that the story stems from a real-life operation that significantly altered the course of events in Kashmir. He said, “There are stories which actually impact the entire course of a nation. So this is one of that stories where it actually changed the course of the nation. It actually changed the face of Kashmir. And I would say, lucky for me that it was still not out there in like nobody actually knew about so I thought probably this is the this is the opportunity. I should not let it go.”
Set between 2001 and 2003, Ground Zero is rooted in a politically and emotionally charged backdrop. According to Tejas, recreating the environment of that time posed a unique set of challenges. “The subject itself is very challenging. It talks about a completely unheard operation. We had to go through extensive research to understand the region’s pulse and its distinct social fabric. Portraying Kashmir authentically from that period required immense detailing and nuanced storytelling.”
Emraan Hashmi, who plays the central character, was not an obvious choice, but one that Tejas believed would bring freshness to the film. “He’s a fantastic actor, and though he had a particular image, and he has been a superstar in that world, but he still had a lot in him as an actor. And I thought that probably can mix with a different world an actor like him, it would create that novelty. Maybe people are also missing these days in the films, like we have typecasted actors so much that, this act can do this kind of role, that actor cannot do certain kind of a role. We have actually typecasted them, and now, I think, is a time where we can experiment. We can actually rely on their skills. We should definitely see actors in different avatars nowadays, and that’s why I thought maybe he can be that person who can do justice to the role.”
Tejas also had nothing but praise for the actor’s work ethic and humility. “Working with Emraan was a breeze. He’s such a sweet person, a sincere professional. There was no hindrance he’s approachable and doesn’t carry the baggage of being a superstar. That makes collaboration easy. You can transfer your ideas directly, and he delivers with sincerity.”
Despite the many technical and creative hurdles, Tejas is confident the effort will be worth it once the film reaches audiences. “From day one, challenges have been constant. But when you watch the final product, and your team is satisfied with the outcome, you feel every bit of that struggle was worth it.”
Ground Zero is set to bring a lesser-known chapter of Indian history to the forefront, and with Emraan Hashmi headlining the project, it promises a gripping narrative rooted in realism and powerful performances.
BOLLYWOOD NEWS – LIVE UPDATES
Catch us for latest Bollywood News, New Bollywood Movies update, Box office collection, New Movies Release , Bollywood News Hindi, Entertainment News, Bollywood Live News Today & Upcoming Movies 2025 and stay updated with latest hindi movies only on Bollywood Hungama.
