Casting director Mukesh Chhabra has revealed the extensive process behind selecting Sara Arjun for a key role in Dhurandhar, shedding light on the effort that went into building the film’s cast. Speaking on The Right Angle with Sonal Kalra, Chhabra shared that the team was clear from the beginning about wanting a fresh face for the character.
The role of Yalina Jamali, paired opposite Ranveer Singh’s character, demanded authenticity and a sense of unfamiliarity. According to Chhabra, the makers deliberately avoided casting established names, even though there was significant interest from actors across the industry. The idea was to ensure that the character appeared believable within the film’s setting.
He revealed that more than a thousand girls auditioned for the role, with the selection process narrowing down through multiple stages. After several rounds, the shortlist was reduced step by step until only one candidate remained. Sara Arjun ultimately stood out during the auditions, particularly for a scene that later became part of the film.
Chhabra recalled that her performance immediately caught attention, prompting him to share the audition clip with director Aditya Dhar, who responded with curiosity about the new face. While there were initial considerations regarding her suitability, the team felt she fit the narrative perfectly.
The decision proved effective, as Sara’s on-screen chemistry with Ranveer Singh has been widely appreciated, contributing to the film’s continued success.
