Filmmaker Imtiaz Ali, known for extracting emotionally layered performances from his actors, has drawn a striking comparison between his upcoming film ‘Main Vaapas Aaunga’ and Alia Bhatt’s career-defining role in the 2014 film ‘Highway’.
Speaking about the emotional depth he looks for in performers, Ali said Vedang Raina reminded him of Alia Bhatt during one of the most defining phases of her career .
‘A certain maturity that they possess’
In a recent interview, Ali opened up about his approach to casting and what makes a performance memorable. For him, experience takes a backseat to emotional authenticity.
“You know, Alia Bhatt in ‘Highway’ or Vedang Raina in this film have portrayed a certain depth of emotion. Some newcomers unexpectedly do that. There is a certain maturity that these people possess,” Ali said .
The filmmaker explained that he views actors through an individualistic lens rather than judging them by the number of films they have done.
“I have an individualistic take on actors. A certain actor, whether he is a veteran or a newcomer, whether he has done 20 films or it is his first film — the acting ability and the suitability to the character do not change. And these are the two things that excite me,” he told Filmfare .
Ali further elaborated that actors, regardless of their experience level, retain their essential qualities. “They never become veterans. They always remain the same,” he added .
Alia Bhatt’s ‘Highway’ legacy
‘Highway’, directed by Ali, marked Alia Bhatt’s second big-screen appearance after her debut in ‘Student of the Year’ (2012). The film earned her widespread critical acclaim for her portrayal of Veera, a young woman kidnapped just before her wedding who finds freedom on an unexpected journey.
The film proved to be a turning point in Bhatt’s career, establishing her as one of the most talented actors of her generation. Since then, she has delivered several successful films including ‘Raazi’, ‘Gully Boy’, and ‘Gangubai Kathiawadi’.
Vedang Raina: The youngest hero in Imtiaz Ali’s world
At the trailer launch event of ‘Main Vaapas Aaunga’, Vedang Raina reacted to being called the youngest hero in Imtiaz Ali’s world and described it as one of the biggest moments of his career.
“It makes me feel young and also very, very honoured. To be part of an Imtiaz Ali film, even at any age, would have been a privilege,” Raina said .
He added, “This is a really interesting title, being the youngest. It’s the most amazing thing that could have happened to me, especially this early in my career. And I’d just like to thank you again” .
About ‘Main Vaapas Aaunga’
‘Main Vaapas Aaunga’ stars Naseeruddin Shah, Diljit Dosanjh, Sharvari Wagh and Vedang Raina in leading roles. Set against the backdrop of the Partition of India, the film alternates between timelines — following a younger couple (Vedang Raina and Sharvari) torn apart by the tragedy, and an older narrative where Diljit Dosanjh’s character uncovers this unfinished love story .
The film is produced by Sameer Nair and Deepak Segal of Applause Entertainment, along with Mohit Choudhary and Shibasish Sarkar of Window Seat Films.
Ali and Dosanjh previously collaborated on the critically acclaimed ‘Amar Singh Chamkila’. The reunion has generated additional buzz around the project.
Fans react to the comparison
The filmmaker’s remarks have drawn attention online, especially as Vedang Raina continues to emerge as one of the promising young actors in the industry. Raina made his acting debut with ‘The Archies’ and has since been building his filmography.
Fans have taken to social media to share their excitement about the upcoming film, with many expressing curiosity about Raina’s performance following Ali’s high praise.
Release date
‘Main Vaapas Aaunga’ is scheduled to release in theatres on June 12, 2026 .
