Mahadev Singh Lakhawat Recalls Abhishek Bachchan's Humble Gesture On Kaalidhar Laapata Set: 'He Stayer...'
Actor Mahadev Singh Lakhawat, best known for his compelling performances in Kaala Pani, Bambai Meri Jaan, The Family Man, and A Simple Murder, is currently garnering praise for his role in Kaalidhar Laapata, streaming on ZEE5. Directed by Madhumita and produced by Nikkhil Advani's Emmay Entertainment, the film features an ensemble cast including Abhishek Bachchan, Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, Nimrat Kaur, and Daivik Baghela.
A graduate of the National School of Drama, Lakhawat brings depth and realism to the character he portrays—a kind-hearted, grounded man rooted in village life. 'This character is a very simple, truthful human being with a good heart," he says. 'He teaches and contributes to society by doing community services. He works in a temple, helps with food services, supports orphans, and teaches them under a tree. He's like a local guardian to Ballu. What I loved was how unassuming and relatable he is—a next-door man who isn't ashamed of any kind of work."
Lakhawat's casting in the film came through a stroke of serendipity. 'I was performing a play at Prithvi Theatre, unaware that Madhumita and Nikkhil Advani were in the audience," he recalls. 'A few days later, I got a call from their team. At the Emmay Entertainment office, Madhumita narrated the story and asked me to perform a scene on the spot. She was looking for someone real, someone the audience could connect with instantly. It wasn't a big challenge, but being natural and truthful on camera can be very demanding. I gave it my best."
Reflecting on his experience working with Abhishek Bachchan, Lakhawat shares nothing but admiration. 'Most of my scenes were with Abhishek and Ballu, since our characters reside in the same part of the village. Abhishek was warm, humble, and full of energy. He made everyone on set feel comfortable."
But it was one moment during a night shoot that truly left an impression on Lakhawat. 'Abhishek had finished his scenes and was told he could wrap for the day. He left to change, but when he saw I was still waiting for my cues, he came back—got into his costume and makeup again—just so I could have someone to react to. That small gesture said so much about the kind of person and professional he is."
Speaking about the shoot environment, Lakhawat fondly recalls working with young actor Daivik Baghela, who plays Ballu in the film. 'We had a wonderful time together. These kids are full of talent and confidence, yet so open and vulnerable on set. I was really inspired by that energy and sincerity."
With Kaalidhar Laapata continuing to strike an emotional chord with audiences, Lakhawat's performance stands out not just for its sincerity, but also for the camaraderie and quiet humanity it brings to the screen.
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July 12, 2025, 21:15 IST
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