Mumbai, August 30, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah once went without bathing for nearly two months while shooting for the 1981 film ‘Chakra’, choosing to immerse himself in the physicality of his character, according to actor Gulshan Grover.
Grover recalled the anecdote during an appearance on ‘The Kapil Sharma Show’, saying he had heard about Shah’s dedication during his own early years in the film industry. The story left him wondering whether he could ever match such an approach to acting.
“I had heard that Naseeruddin Shah, a great actor, didn’t take a bath for 1.5-2 months for his film ‘Chakra’. He wanted to be in the character. I take a bath 2-4 times…Whenever I get a chance. Oh, God! I said, I won’t be able to act like him,” Grover said.
He added humorously that his own career took a very different direction, with fate repeatedly casting him in roles that required him to appear well-dressed, often with a drink in his hand.
Directed by Rabindra Dharmaraj, ‘Chakra’ marked his first and only directorial venture. The film starred Naseeruddin Shah, Smita Patil and Kulbhushan Kharbanda, among others.
Produced by Pradeep Uppoor, the film’s cinematography was handled by Barun Mukherjee, while Bhanudas served as editor.
Set against the harsh realities of Mumbai’s slums, ‘Chakra’ centres on Amma, played by Smita Patil, and her son Benwa, portrayed by Ranjit Chowdhry. Naseeruddin Shah played Lukka, a petty criminal whose influence shapes Benwa’s future.
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