Actor Saanand Verma, known for his versatility, is all set to appear in the Vikrant Massey-starrer Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan, which releases on July 11. After films like Mardaani, Pataakha, India Lockdown, Thank God, and Babli Bouncer, this marks another exciting addition to his filmography.

Speaking about his character and preparation for the role, Saanand says, “My character is named Shauki Lal — the name itself is quite quirky and fun. He’s a cheerful, light-hearted driver who just can’t stop talking. He reminds you of Hema Malini’s iconic Basanti from Sholay — drives around and talks nonstop. His mouth is literally never shut! He brings humour, rhythm, and energy to the story and is one of the high points of the film.”

“I initially thought of him as someone who constantly chews gutkha, so I prepared with that idea in mind. But once I was on set, director Santosh Singh suggested I try delivering lines without it. That clicked better, and we dropped the gutkha angle. Since this is a very natural character, I didn’t need heavy preparation. I’ve observed a lot of real-life drivers — especially those who talk a lot — and used that as a base.”

He adds, “I’ve been playing fast-talking characters like Saxena Ji (Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai) for over 11 years, so quick delivery comes naturally. Plus, I’m always observing people. I’ve seen dozens of drivers in my life — talkative, expressive, animated. And of course, I’ve seen Sholay 15 times — Basanti was always a reference point! Even the driving sequences were shot in the hills of Uttarakhand, with dangerous turns, but I’ve been driving for 22 years, so that part was fun and easy.”

Throwing more light on his association with the cast, crew, and director Santosh Singh, Saanand says, “Director Santosh Singh is someone I’ve worked with before in Apharan 2, and he’s not just a great director — he’s a wonderful human being. We call him Sandy. Initially, he didn’t consider me for this role, thinking it was too small. I had to call him and say, ‘There’s no such thing as a small role.’ Thankfully, he agreed — and the character turned out to be quite impactful.”

“The rest of the cast was phenomenal. Vikrant Massey is a brilliant actor — deeply professional and very focused. Working with him was a joy. Shanaya Kapoor, in her debut, was a revelation. In one emotional scene, she cried even after the cut was called — that’s how immersed she was. She’s humble, dedicated, and has no star-kid attitude. Her upbringing clearly reflects in her work ethic. She’s going to do really well.”

“We shot in Mussoorie, and the vibe was incredible. Everyone — from the production team to the crew — was professional, warm, and committed. It was a fun, collaborative environment.”

Saanand, who has been balancing well between television, OTT, and films, shares his preference as an actor. He says, “Nothing matches the magic of cinema. Watching yourself on the big screen — that thrill, that high — is different. The shelf life of a film is long. We still talk about actors and performances from decades ago. That’s the power of cinema. OTT and television are valid mediums, and I give 100% to each. But when it comes to the audience experience, the big screen is unmatched. You can have a 70-inch screen at home, but it won’t replicate the magic of a theatre.”

“Even in films, sometimes you get scripts months in advance, which helps with deep prep. Other times, it’s all last-minute — like my Sacred Games pool scene or my parts in Pataakha and Chhichhore — those were improvised on the spot, and they hit home. That’s where being a flexible actor matters. I never rely only on rote learning — I absorb the environment, the co-actors, and the mood of the scene and let my instincts lead.”

“For me, the real reward is the audience’s appreciation. That’s bigger than money. And in cinema, that appreciation lasts the longest. That’s why film will always be my first priority.”