EXCLUSIVE! Gaurav Chopra On Shooting With Real Transgender In Rana Naidu: Even If You Give Me A Dummy...

How often do you see a web series showcase taboo topics like child abuse and adultery in its plot? While we have seen makers infuse s*x and drama into the storyline, rarely have they touched upon taboo topics. Netflix's Rana Naidu, which premiered on March 10, has been receiving praises for its top-notch performances and production quality. Gaurav Chopra, who played the role of Prince Reddy, has become the talk of the town, courtesy of his impressive performance in the web show.

After creating ripples with Bheema in Bachchhan Paandey, the Uttaran delivered another fine act in Rana Naidu. Portraying a multi-layered character with ease, Gaurav Chopra made waves with his acting chops in the series.

It has been 12 days since the release of Rana Naidu, but Gaurav's phone has not stopped ringing. He is indeed the man of the moment as fans have been gushing over his brilliant portrayal of Prince Reddy. Mr. Chopra is overwhelmed with all the love and blessings that have been showered on him post the premiere of his new web series.

In an exclusive conversation with Filmibeat, the talented artist spoke about his work in Rana Naidu and made an interesting revelation. He confirmed that he shot with a real transgender for one of the scenes in the OTT show. At a time when artists from the LGBQT community have demanded representation in films and shows, the makers of Rana Naidu have given a platform to a real transgender, earning praise from all corners.

When we asked Gaurav if he had any apprehension in shooting a bold scene, he quipped, "There was no nudity in Rana Naidu. It was conceptually bold because it involved a transgender person. I think the makers are brave to cast a transgender person for the role."

He shared his two cents, stating that he wanted to make a personal statement. "I thought I needed to make a personal statement here- 'If you're my co-actor, I am not going to differentiate and look at you differently just because you are girl, boy or have any sexual preference. Even if you give me a dummy, I will perform the scene with same conviction. I gave the same amount of respect and importance to Chandni as I gave to Ventakesh sir. As a co-actor, I have to give equal importance to everyone. I know that I am creating a scene with someone, and it can look good only when both the artists act well."

"If I had any kind of reservations, it would not look convincing on the screen. From Gaurav Chopra's point, I had to make a statement that I have no bias or prejudice in my mind. I feel now in hindsight that if I had any discomfort, I wouldn't have shot the scenes and series in the same manner. I was able to do it with so much freedom and in fact, added something that was not there in the original. Once you say yes to the role, there's no point of having reservations if your mind. It's unfair to the writers and the makers, who have conceptualized the entire scene and storyline," Gaurav added.