Chum Darang, widely recognized for her authentic presence on Bigg Boss 18, recently shared insights into her journey of securing a role in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s acclaimed film, Gangubai Kathiawadi. In a candid conversation on Bharti Singh and Haarsh Limbachiyaa’s podcast, Darang recounted the unique circumstances that led to her casting and her experiences working under the direction of Bhansali.
A Grandmother’s Support: The Unconventional Audition
Darang’s path to Gangubai Kathiawadi began with a personal trip to Delhi, undertaken to address her grandmother’s knee ailment. During their stay at her brother’s residence, an unexpected opportunity arose: an audition for Bhansali’s upcoming project. With no one else available to assist, her elderly grandmother, despite being in her 80s, took on the role of cameraperson, recording Darang’s audition tape. Reflecting on this heartfelt moment, Darang shared, “There was no one to record. She recorded my audition video.” timesofindia.indiatimes.com
From Skepticism to Reality: The Casting Call
The authenticity of the audition was soon validated when Darang received a call from Bhansali’s office expressing interest in her performance. However, initial skepticism clouded the excitement. Upon sharing the news with her best friend, doubts were raised about the legitimacy of the call, leading Darang to momentarily question the opportunity. She recounted, “I got a call and someone said ‘I’m speaking from Bhansali’s office.’ I told my best friend and my best friend told me it was fake but later I realised it was not fake and then it happened.” pinkvilla.com
On-Set Anxieties: Working with a Perfectionist
Transitioning from reality television to a Bhansali film set was both exhilarating and daunting for Darang. Despite not having any speaking lines and being one of ten girls featured alongside lead actress Alia Bhatt, the pressure to meet Bhansali’s exacting standards was palpable. Darang admitted to feeling a constant sense of apprehension, stating, “Bohot dar laga tha mujhe… Unka (SLB) kaam bohot perfect hota hai, toh darr laga rehta hai ki, ‘Abhi kuch gaali dega kya?’ Meine kuch galat kaam nahi kiya, fir bhi dar lag rehta tha.” jantaserishta.com
Bhansali’s Attention to Detail: A Learning Experience
One aspect of Bhansali’s filmmaking that left a lasting impression on Darang was his meticulous attention to detail, extending to the selection of costume colors for each character. This hands-on approach underscored the director’s commitment to creating a visually cohesive narrative and provided Darang with invaluable insights into the intricacies of film production.
Reflecting on Gangubai Kathiawadi: Three Years Later
As of February 25, 2025, Gangubai Kathiawadi commemorates its third anniversary since its theatrical release in 2022. The film, featuring Alia Bhatt in the titular role, has garnered critical acclaim and commercial success, solidifying its place in contemporary Indian cinema. Darang’s participation in this project not only enriched her acting portfolio but also provided her with a platform to showcase her talent on a grand scale.
Beyond the Silver Screen: Reality TV Fame
Prior to her appearance on Bigg Boss 18, Darang had already made her mark in the film industry with roles in productions such as Badhaai Do and Gangubai Kathiawadi. However, it was her stint on the reality show that amplified her popularity, endearing her to a broader audience. Her genuine demeanor and unfiltered interactions resonated with viewers, further establishing her as a relatable and admired public figure.
Fan Engagement: The #ChumVeer Phenomenon
During her time on Bigg Boss 18, Darang’s camaraderie with fellow contestant Karan Veer Mehra became a highlight for fans. The duo’s dynamic interactions led to the trending hashtag #ChumVeer across various social media platforms, reflecting the audience’s investment in their on-screen relationship. Additionally, Darang forged meaningful connections with other housemates, including Shrutika Arjun and Shilpa Shirodkar, showcasing her ability to build genuine relationships in high-pressure environments.
A Journey Marked by Resilience and Talent
Chum Darang’s trajectory from a supportive granddaughter recording an impromptu audition tape to becoming a recognized face in both film and television exemplifies her resilience and dedication to her craft. Her experiences underscore the importance of seizing opportunities, embracing challenges, and remaining authentic in the pursuit of artistic excellence.
