Imtiaz Ali Remembers Asif Basra, Jab We Met Director Recalls Casting Him in Shahid Kapoor, Kareena Kapoor's Film

Late Asif Basra played a small but impactful role in Imtiaz Ali's 2007 film, "Jab We Met", starring Kareena Kapoor and Shahid Kapoor. The filmmaker recalls how Asif had the mind and skill of an actor who could perform even a small role with conviction. He played a station vendor in Ali's film. Remembering the late actor, Imtiaz Ali said "For me, Asif is a special part of a special film. He was a fantastic actor. The news of his demise is very shocking and disturbing. Asif Basra No More: Emraan Hashmi, Karanvir Bohra, Mukesh Chhabra and Others Condole Death of Pataal Lok Actor (View Tweets)

"He was a fine actor and very easy to work with. It (his death) is indeed a loss. "I remember while making Jab We Met, I wanted an intelligent actor who could convey what I was trying to say and present. I wanted to show two qualities -- lechery and humour -- at the same time through that role. I wanted him to be threatening and funny at the same time. Asif Basra No More: From Paatal Lok to Wrong Side Raju, Taking a Look at Some of His Prominent Roles

"So, for the role, I wanted a special actor who had the mind and the skill to perform. "I have known Aasif through theatre in Mumbai. It is what had led me to him many years ago. "We didn't work together after Jab We Met. I couldn't get around to work with him but I have seen his other films. He was an engaging actor. I will miss him in the movies."

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Nov 12, 2020 07:11 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).