Aaman Devgan on working with uncle Ajay: He’s extremely strict, rarely compliments

Aaman Devgan, who is gearing up for the release of his debut film Azaad, spoke to India Today Digital about working with his uncle, Ajay Devgn. Though Ajay was always a part of Aaman’s life growing up, he spoke about his experience of collaborating with the superstar on the set, which brought about an unexpected set of challenges.

Speaking about working with Ajay, Aaman said, “I was very nervous on the first day of shooting, I was very nervous because I couldn’t distinguish between the character and the superstar that he is,” the actor revealed.

“I would just look at him and get anxious, thinking, ‘How am I going to perform in front of him’? Forget about him being family—at that moment, all I saw was Ajay Devgn, the star. I kept telling myself to calm down,” Aaman said.

It was not just the actor’s nerves but his respect for his uncle that created a moment of hesitation. However, things began to fall into place once director Abhishek Kapoor stepped in, offering words of wisdom to help him settle into his role. “He told me, ‘Apne kirdaar mein raho (Stay within your character). Just calm down,’ and I took that advice to heart. I used some acting tricks, and eventually, I found my footing. I think that worked.”

Watch the trailer of Azaad here:

Despite their family connection, the actor was quick to note that the Son Of Sardar actor has always maintained a strict and professional stance when it comes to work. “He’s never been an ‘uncle’ on set. Even when I assisted him on two films earlier in my career, he made it clear: ‘You have to treat this guy like the lowest of the lowest assistants.’ That’s his approach,” the actor said. “He’s extremely strict with me, and compliments are rare.”

Even after seeing the final cut of the film, Ajay’s feedback was minimal but meaningful. “All he said was, ‘Good job,’ in his usual stoic tone,” the actor recalled, further adding, “But I know that comes from a place of love. He believes in my potential and knows what I’m capable of achieving, which is why he sets such high expectations.”

The young actor credits his uncle’s tough love and high standards for pushing him to reach his full potential, both on and off-screen. “It’s all about challenging yourself, and working with someone like him has only made me better,” he concluded.

Azaad is slated for release on January 17, and also marks Raveena Tandon’s daughter, Rasha Thadani’s acting debut.