Filmmaker: Rajkumar Hirani made his OTT debut in the cybercrime comedy-drama ‘Pritam ug Pedro’, and the series has added significance as it marks the acting debut of his son, Vir Hirani. But unlike the usual star-kid narrative, Vir’s path to landing the role was easy, with his father making it clear from the start that there were no shortcuts or preferential treatment.
Rajkumar Hirani says that Vir Hirani was never part of the original plan
According to Rajkumar Hirani, his son was not on the radar when the series was first made. The filmmaker explains that he knows he avoids thinking about casting while writing, to protect the creative process. He told Hindustan Times, “When we started writing, neither Arshad nor Vir was on the radar. When you’re writing, you don’t want to think about the cast because you’re stuck.”At that time, Vir completed his training at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London. In fact Hirani advised his son to build his craft before weaving roles in films and serials. He added, “I told him to come back from drama school, do theater, and establish himself as an actor doing interesting work.”
Rajkumar Hirani says that Vir Hirani has to audition like everyone else
After observing the casting discussions at home and in the office Vir expressed interest in the role. But his father immediately laid down the ground rules. Rajkumar Hirani added, “I told him, ‘If you want to audition for it, do it. Meet Avinash Arun. Convince him because he’s directing it. I can’t force myself. Even if it’s my film, you have to audition. Don’t think you’ll get it just because you’re my son.’‘”Vir took the process seriously, reportedly rehearsing scenes every night with a friend, recording several audition tapes, and sending only the best to the producers. He secured the role purely on merit.
About ‘Pritam and Pedro’
Created, written, and produced by Rajkumar Hirani and directed by Avinash Arun, ‘Pritam ug Pedro’ marks Rajkumar Hirani’s debut as a streaming creator.In ‘Pritam and Pedro’, Vir plays the role of Pritam, a cyber tech expert, and: Arshad Warsi Plays Pedro, an old policeman reluctantly posted in the cyber cell. Together, they investigate the kidnapping of a minister’s son while battling a dangerous cybercriminal played by Vikrant Massey.The series premiered on JioHotstar on July 3.