National Award-winning actor Manoj Bajpayee recalls his warm memories of shooting for Yash Chopra’s iconic film Veer-Zaara, revealing how the legendary filmmaker treated him with affection despite his small but powerful role that later became a cult favourite.
National Award-winning actor Manoj Bajpayee has revisited his fond memories of working in Yash Chopra’s iconic romantic drama Veer-Zaara, recalling the warmth and affection he received from the legendary filmmaker during the brief but memorable shooting schedule.
Bajpayee spoke about his experience while interacting alongside actress Divya Dutta and director Ben Rekhi during the promotions of their film Last Man in Tower in Mumbai’s Andheri West area.
Recalling his time on the sets of Veer-Zaara, Bajpayee said he thoroughly enjoyed working on the film despite having a relatively small role. The actor revealed that he spent only three days shooting for the project, with one day at Film City and two days in Amritsar.
“I enjoyed myself while working on that film. For three days I was there on the sets of the film. One day at Film City and two days in Amritsar,” Bajpayee recalled.
For the actor, the opportunity to work under the direction of Yash Chopra was particularly meaningful. Bajpayee said he had always wanted to work with the celebrated filmmaker and was happy simply to be in front of the camera under his direction.
According to Bajpayee, Chopra had been candid with him about the nature of the role and the kind of films he made. The filmmaker reportedly told the actor honestly that he did not make films specifically for actors like him. Rather than being disappointed, Bajpayee appreciated Chopra’s straightforwardness and respected him even more for his honesty.
“He didn’t promise me anything. But I was very happy just facing the camera under his direction,” Bajpayee recalled.
The actor also remembered the personal warmth shown to him by Chopra during the shoot. Bajpayee said the filmmaker took great care of him, including his food and arrangements during his stay in Amritsar. Chopra also organised a gathering and invited members of the film’s team, introducing Bajpayee as a guest and ensuring everyone joined the evening celebration.
“He just treated me with so much warmth,” Bajpayee said while remembering his time with the veteran director.
At the time, Bajpayee said, he did not expect his role to have a lasting impact. Veer-Zaara was already one of the most anticipated films of its time, featuring Shah Rukh Khan and Preity Zinta in the lead roles and carrying the banner of one of Indian cinema’s most celebrated filmmakers.
The film tells the emotional story of Veer Pratap Singh and Zaara Hayat Khan, two star-crossed lovers from India and Pakistan whose relationship faces political, social and personal barriers. Bajpayee played the role of a police officer whose actions lead to Shah Rukh Khan’s character being imprisoned on charges of spying.
Although his screen time was limited, the character left a strong impression on audiences and eventually became part of the film’s enduring pop-culture legacy. Bajpayee acknowledged that he was initially unaware of how strongly viewers would remember the role.
His recollections offer a glimpse into the making of a film that has continued to remain popular among audiences years after its release. For Bajpayee, however, the most memorable aspect appears to have been the opportunity to work with Yash Chopra and experience the filmmaker’s generosity and warmth.
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The actor’s memories underline how even a short stint on a major production can become significant when paired with a memorable character and the creative vision of an iconic filmmaker. Veer-Zaara continues to be remembered for its emotional storytelling, powerful performances and enduring portrayal of love across borders.
