Prithviraj: Akshay Kumar says he didn't 'unlearn anything' for the role, only followed director Dr Chandraprakash Dwivedi's lead

Yash Raj Films launched the trailer for its upcoming period drama Prithviraj in Mumbai today. In attendance were the cast members including Akshay Kumar and Manushi Chhillar as well as Dr Chandraprakash Dwivedi. At the event, Akshay was asked whether he had to unlearn anything to play the role of his famous historical figure.

Speaking in Hindi, the actor explained that all he did while shooting for the film was follow his director's lead. 

"Whatever I have done in this film, I have done under the guidance of my director. Whatever directions he used to give me, whatever he used to ask of me, I have learned all of it from him. I didn't bring anything to the film except myself. I haven't unlearned anything for this role. I used to arrive on set, sit with Dr Dwivedi and talk to him, understand my role, rehearse and then perform. I have worked very hard [on this film]."

Also read — Prithviraj trailer: Akshay Kumar emulates the glory and valour of the famed king in this YRF historical drama 

In the trailer, which was released today, Akshay plays Samrat Prithviraj Chauhan as he is crowned the ruler of Delhi, finds love and faces invader Mohammad Ghori (Manav Vij), whom he ultimately defeated in the First Battle of Tarain in 1191.

Prithviraj also stars Sanjay Dutt plays Kaka Kanha, a warrior devoted to the king, and Sonu Sood as Chand Varai, a poet and his right-hand man. Manushi makes her feature debut with this movie as Sanyogita, Prithviraj's wife. The movie also stars Ashutosh Rana and Sakshi Tanwar in supporting roles.

For the uninitiated, Chandraprakash has an extensive filmography of historical and mythological dramas both for TV and the big screen. He has helmed episodes of the 90s Doordarshan show Chanakya, Mrityunjay and Ek Aur Mahabharat.

Prithviraj releases in cinemas on June 3.