Why do artistes pursue their art despite obstacles thrown their way? Passion for their craft, perhaps. It’s something Adarsh Gourav identifies with. That’s why Superboys of Malegaon, which reflects the real-life story of Nasir Shaikh, resonated with the actor. “Nasir Shaikh’s journey is a testament to the power of passion, and how someone with limited resources but boundless creativity can create their own path. Nasir wanted to make films against all odds, driven by nothing but love for the craft. In some ways, it takes you back to the basics—why you do what you do,” he reflects.

Superboys of Malegaon’s trailer dropped yesterday. With the Gourav, Shashank Arora and Viineet Kumar Siingh-starrer, director Reema Kagti takes us into the small town of Maharashtra where Shaikh and his friends make low-budget films like Malegaon Ke Sholay and Malegaon Ka Don, thus starting a unique filmmaking culture. As Gourav reunites with Kagti and producer Zoya Akhtar after Kho Gaye Hum Kahan (2023), he considers working with them educational. “They have a knack for telling human stories with depth and sincerity. For me, this role is about honouring the spirit of dreamers like Nasir, who prove that where there’s a story to tell, there is always a way to tell it. That’s also the story of Reema and Zoya. I see them as visionary filmmakers because they always bring underdog stories to the forefront.”