The upcoming Gujarati film 'Vishwaguru' is all set to release on 1st August 2025. Directed by Shailesh Boghani and Atul Soni and written by Kirti Bhai and Atul Soni. The music is composed by Mehul Surti.
The film features a talented ensemble cast including Gaurav Paswala, Krishna Bhardwaj, Mukesh Khanna, Prashant Barot, Makarand Shukla, Sonu Chandrapal, Shraddha Dangar, Hina Jaikishan, Rajeev Mehta, Dharmesh Vyas, Jani Bhavini, Chetan Daiya, Sonali Lele, and Kurush Debu in key roles.
The cast and crew of the film are currently promoting it across various cities in Gujarat. Interestingly, veteran Hindi film actor Mukesh Khanna has made his debut in Gujarati cinema with this project. To learn more about his role and experience working in a Gujarati film for the first time, ETimes caught up with the actor for an exclusive interview.
How did you say yes to a Gujarati film? Was there something special in the script?
To be honest, I don’t usually do regional films, especially if I’m not comfortable with the language. Since I’m known for my dialogues, language plays a very important role in my performances. Initially, I had said no for very reason for this film. But the makers were very keen and assured me that I could deliver all my dialogues in Hindi. In fact, I’m the only character in the film who speaks in Hindi throughout. I play the role of a Bureau Chief who is part of a very important mission. When I finally heard the full story, I found it to be quite unique, it had something different, something special. The film beautifully combines elements of spirituality and suspense, and that blend really connected with me. That’s what convinced me to say yes to 'Vishwaguru'.
How comfortable were you speaking in Gujarati?
I didn’t have to speak in Gujarati at all in this film, all my dialogues are in Hindi. The makers were clear from the beginning that I would speak only in Hindi, which made me comfortable taking up the role. My character, along with his team, is focused on solving a important mission in the story.
Your take about Gujarati cinema?
"I’ve known about Gujarati cinema for a long time. My dear friend Kiran Kumar bhai ji has done many Gujarati films, and I’ve always admired his work. Today, I feel Gujarati cinema is finally getting the recognition it deserves on a national level. A new era has begun, the stories, the scale, and the presentation have all evolved.
Even with Vishwaguru, the film is made in both Gujarati and Hindi. In the Hindi version, all the characters speak in Hindi, not just me, which makes the film more accessible and understandable to a wider audience. It’s not just a regional film anymore; it’s a pan-India film with universal appeal. It may have roots in Gujarat, but its message goes far beyond.
You are a nationally loved figure for your iconic TV roles — how different was it to be part of a regional language film?
I’ve been working in this industry for over 40 years, from 'Mahabharat' and 'Shaktimaan', my journey has always been driven by meaningful content and powerful performances. I’ve done only around 60 films in four decades because I’m extremely choosy about my work. I never say yes unless I know exactly what my role is and what value I’m adding to the story.
For me, performance is everything and a major part of that is voice and dialogue delivery. I take my dialogues very seriously. In fact, I believe your voice is 60% of your performance. If your voice doesn’t land well, the audience won't connect. We often overlook their importance. Voice training is essential for every actor, it can elevate an ordinary scene into something memorable.
Even though Vishwaguru is a regional language film, I was very conscious about how my performance would translate. Thankfully, I was given the freedom to speak in Hindi, which allowed me to maintain the depth and impact of my character. That’s why I agreed to be a part of this film.
How different was your experience working in a Gujarati film compared to other regional or Hindi films? Do you plan to do more work in Gujarati cinema in the future if opportunities align?
I've worked in two Telugu films and one Malayalam film. People often think I’m very strict, but I believe before being an actor, you are a human being first. For me, every role and every dialogue matters, whether big or small.
I once even refused an international film because I wasn’t convinced by the script. I don’t get swayed by big names, a big director or producer doesn’t influence my decision. What matters to me is what I am doing in the film, what I’m contributing to the story. If I come across a strong script, I would definitely love to do more Gujarati films. But I will choose them the same way I’ve always chosen my work.
What would you like to say to your Gujarati fans who are waiting to see you on screen?
Gujarat has always held a special place in my heart. The love and respect I received here for Mahabharat and Shaktimaan has been overwhelming. I’ve had the honour of being present at the Rajyabhishek ceremony of Shri Narendra Modi for 3 times. Though I studied Marathi in school, I must say I speak Gujarati better than Marathi! That’s the kind of connection I have with this land and its people. To all my Gujarati fans, this is a good film, and I’m sure you’ll enjoy watching it as much as I enjoyed being a part of it.
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