Vardhaan Puri, grandson of legendary actor Amrish Puri, is steadily making his mark in the film industry. With a deep passion for cinema and a legacy to uphold, Vardhaan takes center stage in his latest romantic film, Bobby Aur Rishi Ki Love Story, alongside Kaveri Kapur, daughter of filmmaker Shekhar Kapur and actress Suchitra Krishnamoorthi.
In an exclusive conversation with ETimes, Vardhaan shared fond memories of his grandfather, recalling how Amrish Puri’s influence shaped his values and career. He recounted a pivotal moment from Virasat, where the filmmakers initially considered Dilip Kumar for a key role. Upon hearing the script, Dilip Kumar reportedly said, “I can only see Amrish Puri in this role.”
“So, Kamal Haasan, Boney Kapoor, and Priyadarshan approached my grandfather. He received a call from Dilip Kumar, who told him, “Amrish, you are my favorite actor, and I would like you to do this film. Please listen to the story, and if you like it, do it.” My grandfather said, “Dilip sahab, if you have said it, then the matter is settled. If you think I should do this, then I will.” And that was it. He did the film. From this, I learned that no matter how great you become, you must always respect your seniors. Their words should hold value. My grandfather taught me that respecting your seniors is an invaluable virtue,” he recalled.
Another memory that left a lasting impact on Vardhaan was during a Chori Chori Chupke Chupke shoot with Salman Khan, Rani Mukerji, and Preeti Zinta. A power cut in the actresses’ makeup room left them without proper facilities. Without hesitation, Amrish Puri offered his own room, insisting they use it while he waited outside in the heat.
When Vardhaan asked why he did so despite being the senior actor, his grandfather simply said, “If any woman is in discomfort, even if you have to bear the inconvenience, always ensure they are comfortable. We are men, and it is our job to take care of women.”
Since childhood, Vardhaan Puri had a natural flair for performing, entertaining family and friends like a true showman. Noticing his growing passion, his family introduced him to theater, where he underwent rigorous training – starting with backstage duties like serving tea and assisting senior artists.
Under the mentorship of legendary theater guru Pandit Satyadev Dubey and his grandfather, Amrish Puri, he honed his craft, transforming his passion into a serious acting career. “My grandfather put me under the guidance of Pandit Satyadev Dubey, one of the greatest theater gurus. He was my teacher, and I learned a lot from him. I had two acting gurus—Pandit Satyadev Dubey and Amrish Puri sahab, my grandfather,” Vardhaan concluded.
