When Sanjay Leela Bhansali praised Alia Bhatt for not having ‘excess baggage’ of being a star: Watch

He also spoke about Alia's professionalism and her simple nature, especially while working.

Filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali, who is currently gearing up for his upcoming film Love and War, had once praised actress Alia Bhatt for her simplicity and not carrying the 'excess baggage', in an earlier interview.

An old video of Sanjay Leela Bhansali's interview with Anupama Chopra has resurfaced on social media, in which he talked about Alia's dedication towards the film Gangubai Kathiawadi, for which she bagged her first National Film Award.

He also spoke about Alia's professionalism and her simple nature, especially while working. He said, "Alia Bhatt doesn't come with an excess baggage of ah I am a star and where is my 17 people that come with me. Where is my special van for my costumes and special van for me. No excess baggage of 'I am a great actor'."

"She is just there. She perceived and she gave. When the excess baggage is not there, then she is not just a great actor but a star," added the Heeramandi director.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by C FOR CINEMAA | MOVIE NEWS (@c.for.cinemaa)

Netizens quickly filled the comment section, praising Alia for her work. One user wrote, "Alia has actual solo hits and no director has ever spoken bad about her work ethic or professionalism. Real Queen." Another user commented, "she is a simple girl with not too many tantrums."

Some even praised her for working even during her pregnancy. A comment read, "Alia was filming for movies during pregnancy and 4 months after giving birth. Strong Professional lady."

Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Alia Bhatt worked together in the 2022 film Gangubai Kathiawadi. The film was about a young woman who was sold to a brothel after being duped by her lover. Soon, she takes control of that world.

Also read: Alia Bhatt stuns in Gucci’s dramatic Milanesa coat at Demna’s Gucci debut in Milan

It starred Alia Bhatt, Shantanu Maheshwari, Vijay Raaz, Indira Tiwari, Seema Pahwa, Jim Sarbh, and Ajay Devgn. Alia was also honoured with the "Best Actress" National Award for Gangubai Kathiawadi.

Alia will be next seen in Sanjay's Love and War alongside Ranbir Kapoor and Vicky Kaushal. The period-love story is expected to release in 2026.