Boman Irani says Sunil Dutt didn't recognize him at Munna Bhai premiere despite shooting with him: 'I felt bad that he was being distant...'

Boman Irani recently opened up about his memorable experience working with the legendary Sunil Dutt in Munna Bhai MBBS. From feeling intimidated on set to being unrecognized by Dutt at the film’s premiere, Irani shared candid moments that reveal both the challenges and the heartfelt connections behind the scenes of the iconic 2003 film.

In a chat with Humans of Bombay, Boman shared that he began his acting journey through advertisements. He revealed that he appeared in nearly 200 ads before entering films, which familiarized him with cameras, studio setups, and lighting—skills he had also honed through photography. This experience, he said, proved invaluable when transitioning to theatre.

Intimidation on set

The actor Irani admitted that he felt intimidated during a scene in Munna Bhai MBBS where he had to yell at Sunil Dutt. He explained that it wasn’t the camera or the set that unnerved him, but the thought of having to sit, scream, and scold a senior actor like Dutt sahab, making the experience truly daunting.



He further added that the scene was particularly challenging because Sunil Dutt was standing there with a stick, watching him scold his on-screen son. He explained that staying true to the moment while managing his own intimidation was tough, and admitted that working with Dutt sahab on the very first day was a genuinely scary experience.

Sunil Dutt’s first impression

Interestingly, Dutt initially assumed Boman was older than him because of his bald look in the film. Irani recalled that Dutt invited him to rehearse, saying, “Doctor sahab aaiye, lines karte hain,” which left him feeling completely petrified.

To his surprise, Irani discovered that even the veteran star was nervous about facing the camera after a long acting hiatus. Dutt confided that he was feeling anxious since it had been 16 years since his last film, admitting that some things had changed. Boman recalled being struck by the humility and honesty in Dutt’s words.

Boman added that he was deeply moved by Sunil Dutt’s honesty and humility in admitting his nerves. He reassured Dutt that everything would be fine and praised him as a man of grace, presence, and an unforgettable, kind-hearted persona.

Premiere shock

He recalled that at the Munna Bhai MBBS premiere, Sunil Dutt didn’t recognize him since he was no longer wearing the wig. Irani felt a bit hurt as Dutt seemed distant, even asking someone else, pointing at him, who the “guy insisting on standing there” was, mistaking him for a fan or acquaintance.

Boman shared that once someone clarified his identity, Sunil Dutt immediately recognized him, greeted him warmly, and even hugged him, asking him to stay in touch. Irani said that moment made him feel a sense of belonging, leaving a lasting impression on him.