Sharmaji Namkeen: Paresh Rawal reveals why he stepped in to complete Rishi Kapoor’s last film

Sharmaji Namkeen’s release was a bittersweet moment for Rishi Kapoor fans. Although the film gave audiences the chance to see the beloved star onscreen for one last time, it was also a painful reminder of the star’s passing, who passed away in 2020 from cancer before he was able to complete the film. Paresh Rawal stepped in to complete the film, essaying the role of Kappor’s character. Rawal recently opened up about his decision to step into the shoes of the character after Kapoor’s death.

In conversation with Bollywood Hungama, Rawal said that one of the main reasons he said yes to the role was to ensure that Kapoor’s last film reached completion. He also talked about how he felt ‘concerned’ for the film’s producers, who were left in an ‘awful’ situation and were resolved to complete the film and release it. Rawal felt it was his duty as an actor to support the producer’s efforts, and that was why the actor took the risk.

• ALSO READ: Sharmaji Namkeen review: Rishi Kapoor's swansong is sugar, spice, and everything nice! 

Opening about how he approached Kapoor’s character, Rawal said that he did not want to imitate the late actor’s approach as that would reduce the importance of Kapoor’s performance. It was something Rawal said he couldn't do even if he tried. “ It would have looked very unbecoming for me to try to capture his personality,” added Rawal.

He also talked about how ‘strong’ the film’s script was, saying that it was so good that audiences would not even notice two people playing Sharmaji.

Directed by Hitesh Bhatia, the film also features Juhi Chawla, Suhail Nayyar, Taaruk Raina, Satish Kaushik, Sheeba Chaddha,Raza Mishra and Isha Talwar.

Sharmaji Namkeen is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video.