Shahid Kapoor openly discussed his initial reservations regarding his younger brother, Ishaan Khatter, serving as an Assistant Director on the set of the film Udta Punjab. He candidly expressed his concerns about having Ishaan involved in such a challenging and intense project. During a recent appearance on Neha Dhupia’s talk show, Shahid delved into his apprehensions, stating, “I didn’t want him to be on Udta Punjab. I was delving into the character of a cocaine addict, a role that pushed me to my limits. Considering I have no personal experience with addiction or substance abuse, portraying this character was incredibly challenging. Naturally, I was concerned about my brother being a part of the project, particularly in a role that demanded such depth and understanding.”

The conversation further explored the potential biases that might arise due to Ishaan’s familial relationship with the film’s lead actor. Shahid addressed this issue, emphasizing that there were no biases present on the film sets. He underscored the importance of meritocracy and equal treatment within the industry, stating, “I wouldn’t want my elder brother or father to make me feel like I needed special treatment. It would be detrimental to anyone’s career to feel as though they were receiving preferential treatment based on their relationships. It’s crucial to be included and treated equally within the team, irrespective of familial ties.”

Reflecting on their experiences during the filming of Udta Punjab, Shahid shared a poignant anecdote about Ishaan’s encounter with illness. He recounted an incident where Ishaan, despite warnings, drank water from a handpump on set and subsequently fell ill with typhoid. This anecdote serves as a testament to the challenges and risks encountered during the production process.

Udta Punjab, directed by Abhishek Chaubey, was released in 2016 to critical acclaim. Shahid Kapoor delivered a stellar performance as a drug-addicted rockstar, alongside a talented ensemble cast including Alia Bhatt, Kareena Kapoor Khan, and Diljit Dosanjh. The film tackled pertinent social issues and remains a significant milestone in Indian cinema.