‘Yami Gautam Is a Very Giving Actor and an Even Better Human Being,’ Says Anurag Thakur at Khidkiyaan Film Festival

Actor Anurag Thakur has heaped praise on Yami Gautam, describing her as a generous co-star and an even more wonderful human being. The actor, who shares screen space with Yami in the recently released film Nayyi Navelli, opened up about his experience working with her while interacting with the media on the sidelines of the Khidkiyaan Film Festival. From appreciating Yami’s acting abilities to expressing gratitude towards casting director Mukesh Chhabra and discussing his upcoming projects, Anurag had plenty to share about his journey in the industry.

Talking about Nayyi Navelli and his experience of working with Yami, Anurag said, “It’s been a wonderful experience—I’m really enjoying it! I’d highly recommend that you all watch it; I’m naturally going to be full of praise, as I’m in the film myself. She is a fantastic actor and a wonderful human being—incredibly generous, both as an actor and as a person. It was such a great experience.” His words reflected the admiration he developed for his co-star while working on the film. For Anurag, Yami’s contribution goes beyond her performance, with her generosity and approach to working with fellow actors making the experience particularly memorable.

The conversation also turned to casting directors and the importance of their contribution to an actor’s career. Anurag credited Mukesh Chhabra and his team for supporting him throughout the audition process for his projects, including Nayyi Navelli. Speaking about his upcoming film Phoolan, he said, “Phoolan will release next. The project, which was part of the Toronto International Film Festival, is coming out soon. It’s a film by Mukesh Chhabra—he was the one who handled the casting. In fact, the film that has been released today (Nayyi Navelli) was also cast by Mukesh Chhabra, in collaboration with Sarvesh Vajpayee and his team. What’s particularly special is that his entire team supported me throughout the audition process—they were there with me and helped me out. So, a big thank you to everyone! Do watch it.” His comments highlighted the often-overlooked work that goes into bringing the right performers together for a film.

Phoolan, directed by Richie Mehta and co-written by Anu Singh, had its world premiere as a Special Presentation at the 51st Toronto International Film Festival on September 16, 2026. The biographical drama stars Sneha Kumari as Phoolan Devi, alongside Anurag Thakur, Vikram Pratap Singh, Aakash Dahiya, Prateek Pachori and Dev Dutt Budholiya. Inspired by the 1997 book I, Phoolan: The Autobiography of India's Bandit Queen, the film focuses on a harrowing 48-hour siege in the Chambal ravines involving a 17-year-old Phoolan Devi and a large armed force. The film received a standing ovation from more than 2,000 viewers at its world premiere, adding to the anticipation surrounding its upcoming release.

Anurag also spoke about Raftaar, another project that audiences can look forward to. The upcoming film stars Rajkummar Rao, Keerthy Suresh and Rajat Kapoor, and is directed by Aditya Nimbalkar. Set against the high-pressure world of a rapidly rising start-up, the story explores ambition, money, power and greed as a driven man and an equally ambitious woman navigate professional success and personal relationships. As their hunger to win intensifies, love becomes entangled with the intoxicating highs and devastating consequences of their rise. Discussing the film, Anurag said, “Also, Raftaar is coming out soon—make sure to check that out as well. Once again, all thanks to Mukesh Chhabra!”

From his appreciation for Yami Gautam to his gratitude towards Mukesh Chhabra and his excitement about Phoolan and Raftaar, Anurag’s interaction offered a glimpse into the collaborative relationships that shape an actor’s career. His comments also served as a reminder of the importance of casting teams in helping performers find opportunities and grow professionally. With multiple projects on the horizon, Anurag Thakur is looking forward to connecting with audiences through a diverse range of stories, while continuing to acknowledge the people who have supported his journey.

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