Directed by debutant Sumit Sulkarni, Sangee features Sharib Hashmi and Vidya Malavade in pivotal roles alongside Shyamraj Patil, Gaurav More, and Sanjay Bishnoi. In an exclusive conversation with The Movie Mail, the team opens up about their characters, the challenges of bringing a situational comedy to life, and their inspirations in the genre.
Q:The trailer of the film looks very promising and like a fun ride. Tell us more about your characters in the film.
Shyamraj Patil:I play Akhil, a guy born and raised in India but now living in Mauritius with his family. He’s one of Baman and Arjun’s closest friends. Baman, played by Sharib (Hashmi), is perpetually broke and always in need of money. While I’ve bailed him out a couple of times, this time I’m unable to help due to my own limitations. This sets off a series of events that tests our friendship and defines my character’s journey in the film.
Gaurav More:My character is that of a servant in the film—and here’s a fun coincidence—his name is also More! He’s fiercely loyal to his boss, his boss’s friends, and their family. He keeps things professional but friendly. But, like everyone else, More has his own needs and financial desperation. One twisty situation changes everything, including his loyalty. To find out how, you’ll need to watch the film.
Sanjay Bishnoi:I play Arjun, the friend who’s done well for himself. He’s comfortable, settled, and financially secure. But then there’s Baman, the friend who’s still struggling in his late 30s. During college, we were inseparable, standing by each other through thick and thin. But life happened, and we all got busy. Now, we’re forced to confront whether our friendship can stand the test of time.
Q: Sumit, as a debutant director, how did you manage so many actors?
Sumit Kulkarni: Honestly, I’ve always loved watching situational comedies. That’s why I decided my debut film would be in this genre. We worked really hard on pre-production so that everything on set went smoothly. By the time we started shooting, everything was so well-organized that handling a large cast and multiple gags felt easy. The actors executed their roles just as I’d envisioned.
Shyamraj:As someone who was on the set, I can vouch for the excellent planning. We wrapped up the entire film in just 16 days! It was one of the fastest and smoothest shoots I’ve ever been part of—no chaos, no rush, just seamless execution.
Q: Speaking of comedy, we’ve seen many celebrated actors in this genre. Who are your favourite actors and films in the genre?
Sanjay:Paresh Rawal sir is my favourite. He’s amazing in every role, but his comic timing is unmatched. Films like Hera Pheri and Bhagam Bhaag are classics for a reason. I can watch them any time.
Sumit:I’m a huge fan of Priyadarshan’s films. His work is a goldmine for comedy lovers. My favourite is Malamaal Weekly.
Shyamraj:For me, it’s Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro. What a masterpiece by Kundan Shah! And of course, Andaaz Apna Apna is another gem.
Gaurav:My go-to films are Deewana Mastana, Garam Masala, and Malamaal Weekly. I also adore all of Priyadarshan’s movies. As for actors, Akshay Kumar is my all-time favourite comic performer.
Q: It’s interesting that apart from Akshay Kumar, not many Bollywood superstars have had consistent success with comedy. Why do you think that is?
Sanjay:Comedy begins with a strong script. No matter how talented the actor, they can’t be funny without great writing. It’s the script that sets the stage for comic timing and delivery. While actors do get credit, it’s the writers who deserve the spotlight.
Shyamraj:Absolutely. The magic lies in the dialogue and the situations created in the script. A great comedy is all about the writing.
Gaurav:Exactly! Either give me a great script, or I’ll create a funny moment myself. After all, I’ve done a course before entering the entertainment industry.
Sanjay:What course?
Gaurav:Of course! (laughs)
