Maniesh Paul praises director Vikram Phadnis as 'a different person on set' after 10-year bond
Synopsis
Actor Maniesh Paul opened up about his decade-long working relationship with director Vikram Phadnis, describing him as a transformed creative force on set — a director wielding conviction, emotional depth, and professional vision. The candid endorsement offers insight into Phadnis' meticulous directorial approach and suggests an upcoming film project worth watching.
Key Takeaways
Maniesh Paul has known director Vikram Phadnis for over 10 years .
Paul praised Phadnis as 'a different guy on the set,' full of conviction, emotion, and sensibility.
The upcoming film features Saiyami Kher and Tahir Raj Bhasin alongside Paul.
Paul's recent film Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari starred Varun Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor .
Vvan – Force of the Forest , co-starring Sidharth Malhotra and Tamannaah Bhatia , is slated for release later this year.
Actor Maniesh Paul, set to appear in filmmaker Vikram Phadnis' upcoming project, revealed on 5 May that he has maintained a professional relationship with the director for over a decade and witnessed a marked transformation in Phadnis' directorial approach on set. Paul shared a series of black-and-white photographs from the film's production featuring himself, Phadnis, and actress Saiyami Kher, alongside co-star Tahir Raj Bhasin.
In a social media post, Paul reflected on their long-standing association, stating: "Have known @vikramphadnis for over a decade now. We were full of insane conversations, until he gave me this role… My god!!! He is a different guy on the set….full of conviction, full of emotions, full of sensibilities and the vision of a pro director!!!" He further expressed gratitude, writing: "So proud of you, Vikram. And thank you for this role and this FILM! Loved every minute on the set! Can't wait for the audience to see the magic you created."
Paul's Career Trajectory
Maniesh Paul began his entertainment career as a cultural event host across schools and colleges in Delhi before transitioning to acting. His early television credits include Ghost Bana Dost, where he played a spectral character, and roles in serials such as Radhaa Ki Betiyaan Kuch Kar Dikhayengi, Zindadil, and Ssshhhh...Phir Koi Hai. His film debut came in 2010 with Tees Maar Khan, opposite Akshay Kumar and Katrina Kaif.
Notable Film Appearances
Paul gained recognition for his lead role as computer programmer Mickey in Mickey Virus. More recently, he appeared in Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari, a romantic comedy directed by Shashank Khaitan and produced by Karan Johar, alongside Varun Dhawan, Janhvi Kapoor, Sanya Malhotra, Rohit Saraf, and Akshay Oberoi.
Upcoming Projects
Paul is currently in post-production for Vvan – Force of the Forest, a cultural folklore thriller co-starring Sidharth Malhotra and Tamannaah Bhatia. The film, written by Arunabh Kumar and directed by Deepak Mishra and Arunabh Kumar, features cinematography by Manu Anand. Produced by Shobha Kapoor, Ektaa R Kapoor, Arunabh Kumar, and Niraj Kothari, the project is scheduled for theatrical release later in the year.
Director Vikram Phadnis' Vision
Paul's endorsement underscores Phadnis' reputation for meticulous direction and emotional depth. The actor's candid remarks suggest the director brings a level of artistic conviction and sensibility to the production process that distinguishes his work. This upcoming project marks a significant collaboration between two industry veterans with complementary creative sensibilities.
Point of View
He pinpoints what distinguishes Phadnis: conviction, emotional anchoring, and a professional's vision. In an industry where directors are often reduced to their box-office track record, Paul's emphasis on sensibility and artistry is a refreshing counterweight. It also signals that Phadnis' upcoming project, whatever its commercial ambitions, is being crafted with deliberate creative intent — a differentiator in an era of franchise-chasing and formula-driven cinema.
NationPress
6 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How long has Maniesh Paul known director Vikram Phadnis?
Maniesh Paul has known Vikram Phadnis for over a decade. In a recent social media post, Paul reflected on their long-standing professional relationship and the evolution of Phadnis' directorial approach.
What did Maniesh Paul say about Vikram Phadnis on set?
Paul described Phadnis as 'a different guy on the set,' emphasizing that he is full of conviction, emotions, sensibilities, and possesses the vision of a professional director. Paul expressed pride in working with him on the upcoming film.
Who else stars in Vikram Phadnis' upcoming film with Maniesh Paul?
The film features actress Saiyami Kher and actor Tahir Raj Bhasin alongside Maniesh Paul. Black-and-white photographs from the set were shared to promote the project.
What is Maniesh Paul's next major release after Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari?
Maniesh Paul's next major theatrical release is Vvan – Force of the Forest, a cultural folklore thriller co-starring Sidharth Malhotra and Tamannaah Bhatia, scheduled for release later this year.
Who directed and produced Vvan – Force of the Forest?
Vvan – Force of the Forest is written and directed by Arunabh Kumar and Deepak Mishra, with cinematography by Manu Anand. It is produced by Shobha Kapoor, Ektaa R Kapoor, Arunabh Kumar, and Niraj Kothari.
