E-Paper
Exclusive: Director Apoorva Lakhia on casting Shabir-Kanchi's sons with Salman Khan: They are both adorable
Television stars Shabir Ahluwalia and Kanchi Kaul's children, Azai and Ivaar, are making their film debut proud parents shared their excitement on social media
Social media is abuzz with love for television stars Shabir Ahluwalia and Kanchi Kaul’s children, Azai and Ivaar, who are set to make their debut in an upcoming film alongside none other than Salman Khan. The upcoming film, Battle of Galwan, will see the children playing the on-screen kids of Salman Khan and Chitrangda Singh. Azai and Ivaar first made their appearance in the recently released song Maatrubhumi.
Speaking to us on the casting, the film's director, Apoorva Lakhia, explains that the decision was personal and professional. “I’ve known Shabir and Kanchi for a very long time. Shabir has acted in my films including Shootout at Lokhandwala and Mission Istaanbul. I have seen the kids grow up. So, when we were casting, it was a no-brainer. The icing on the cake was that SK sir knew them well and was extremely comfortable with them. They were apt for this movie as they are both adorable and were the instant favourite on the set. Keeping them under control was another matter altogether,” Apoorva shares.
The song was released on Monday, with Salman Khan sharing an adorable video featuring his niece Ayat and nephew Ahil.
Salman wrote, "This is for all the chota chota nanna munna desh bhakts and patriots. Happy Republic Day love your Maatrubhumi... Jai Hind @salmankhanfilmsmusic."
Ayat and Ahil were reportedly elated as the video featured their real-life friends, Azai and Ivaar. Salman Khan's sister, Arpita Khan, also shared on social media how excited her children were to see their best friends in the film alongside their 'Mama'.
The proud parents celebrated the big moment. Sharing the song on his Instagram, father Shabir Ahluwalia wrote: "What an incredible experience to enhance the adventures of Azai and Ivarr... with the best team lakhiaapoorva and of course the one and only, beingsalmankhan."
Fans of the actor-couple flooded the comments with wishes. One fan wrote, “Shabir, we will watch this movie because of Azai and Ivaar, and yes, also for our India.” Another commented, “Super hit parents and hit kids. What a family.” The couple’s friends in the industry also commented on the post.
Close friend Genelia Deshmukh celebrated the debut news, sharing the song video and writing a heartfelt message: "My Darling Azai and Ivaar — Nothing makes me happier than seeing my baby boys, and of course, I was fully teary-eyed — kanchikaul shabirahluwalia you did well, guys — proud beyond words." Actor Ashish Chowdhary also sent his blessings to the young debutants.
