Tarun Manshukhani Credits Priyanka Chopra for Global Success

In an exclusive chat about the success of Housefull 5, director Tarun Manshukhani has thrown all credit towards global icon Priyanka Chopra, who made her mark in the film Dostana under his direction.

During a conversation that celebrated Housefull 5, Tarun jokingly revealed that he didn't have an "magic talent-spotting eye" for spotting stars. He claimed to not be responsible for Priyanka's global success, stating that she was the actual talent behind it all.

"I think I'm just lucky to have worked with her at such an early stage in her career," Tarun shared with a humble smile. According to him, his only contribution was being fortunate enough to collaborate with her in Dostana, which marked his directorial debut.

What made their on-set dynamic special was Priyanka's thoughtful questions about characters and the story. Tarun recalled that her inquires often prompted him to stop and think, "Because she is thinking, now you are also thinking." This process drove home for Tarun how much Priyanka brought to his sets, even today.

Tarun even revealed a crucial directorial mantra inspired by that experience: "I always think about what I am not thinking about. When an actor asks me a question, I should have an answer. Otherwise, they will think I don’t know my job, so I work hard, I prep hard."

The collaboration between Tarun and Priyanka resulted in a win-win formula – honest approach from the director and talent from the actress.

Tarun has had quite a successful journey in Bollywood, starting out as an assistant director on notable films like Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, Kal Ho Naa Ho, and Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna. His directorial debut with Dostana led to Drive, followed by Housefull 5, which has catapulted him into a new level of success.