Thailand Rescue Operation : 8 saved, 5 including coach remain trapped

Alia Bhatt recently reflected on what she considers the most influential acting assignment of her career so far, revisiting her transformative journey as Gangubai in Gangubai Kathiawadi (2022). Directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, the film marked a defining milestone for the actress, pushing her far beyond her comfort zone and reshaping her approach to performance.

Speaking about the experience, Alia described the role as both intimidating and deeply transformative. She revealed that she took on the character purely out of faith in the script and complete trust in Bhansali’s vision. Addressing the audience at the Red Sea International Film Festival in Saudi Arabia, she admitted that the role felt like a huge risk at the time. Unsure if she could fully embody Gangubai, Alia said she relied entirely on her director’s guidance, believing that the performance would either work wholeheartedly or not at all.

Beyond the technical and artistic challenge, Alia shared that Gangubai left a lasting emotional impact on her. The character’s strength, resilience, and vulnerability continued to stay with her long after the film’s completion. Reflecting on this bond, she noted that Gangubai Kathiawadi remains the character that has stayed with her the longest on an emotional level. Widely acclaimed by audiences and critics alike, the performance became a landmark in Alia Bhatt’s acting career, reaffirming her range and willingness to take bold creative risks.