Abu Dhabi: Bollywood actor Shantanu Maheshwari has bagged the Best Debutante Male Award for Gangubai Kathiawadi at the IIFA Awards 2023 in Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.
Last seen in the OTT series Tooth Pari, the actor delivered a noteworthy performance in his debut film last year – Sanjay Leela Bhansalis biographical crime drama Gangubai Kathiawadi. Shantanu portrayed the role of Alia Bhatts love interest, named Afsaan.
An iconic moment for Shantanu today, the actor earned a lot of love and appreciation from both the audience and the industry for his performance in Bhansalis masterpiece.
Expressing his gratitude for the honour, Shantanu said in his acceptance speech, Its my first, and it means a lot. It has been a long journey to reach this point, but the best part is that its only the beginning. I began my career in the TV industry, and I would like to express my gratitude to Palki Malhotra for giving me my first opportunity in TV. If that hadnt happened, I wouldnt have discovered my passion for acting. I want to thank my parents and my family, as well as the individuals directly involved in the film Gangubai Kathiawadi.
A big thank you to Leela maam for spotting me, Sanjay sir for giving me that opportunity, and introducing me to the world in a completely different light. I have learned a lot, and Alia Bhatt, thank you for being so helpful. I also extend my gratitude to Sudeep sir, Shruti maam, Krutee, and everyone else who was involved in Gangubai. Your support means a lot to me. Thank you all so much for everything, he added.
On the work front, he will be next seen in Neeraj Pandeys Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha, alongside the likes of Ajay Devgn and Tabu.
(With UNI inputs)
