Aman Devgan, who is gearing up for the release of his debut film Azaad, spoke to India Today Digital about working with his uncle Ajay Devgan. Although Ajay was always a part of Amaan’s life growing up, he talked about his experience of collaborating with the superstar on the sets, which posed unexpected challenges.

Talking about working with Ajay“I was very nervous on the first day of shooting, I was very nervous because I was not able to differentiate between the character and the superstar,” the actor revealed.

“I would just look at him and get worried, thinking, ‘How will I perform in front of him?’ Calm down,” Amaan said.

It was not just the actor’s nervousness but his respect for his uncle that created a moment of hesitation. However, as soon as director Abhishek Kapoor stepped in and offered words of wisdom to help him settle into his role, things started falling into place. “He told me, ‘stay in character (Stay within your character). Just calm down,’ and I took that advice to heart. I picked up some acting tricks and eventually, I found my niche. “I think it worked.”

Watch the trailer of Azaad here:

Despite his family ties, the actor is quick to note that the Son of Sardar actor has always maintained a strict and professional stance when it comes to work. “He was never an ‘uncle’ on the set. Even when I assisted him on two films early in my career, he made it clear: ‘You have to treat this man like the lowest of assistants.’ This is his point of view,” said the actor. “He’s extremely strict with me and compliments are rare.”

Even after watching the final cut of the film, Ajay’s reaction was minimal but meaningful. The actor further recalled, “He just said, ‘Good job’ in his usual calm tone, but I know it comes from a place of love. He believes in my ability and knows that I What am I capable of doing?” To achieve, that’s why he has such high expectations.”

The young actor credits his uncle’s tough love and high standards for inspiring him to reach his full potential both on- and off-screen. He concluded, “It’s all about challenging myself, and working with someone like him has made me even better.”

Azaad is scheduled to release on January 17 and also marks the acting debut of Raveena Tandon’s daughter Rasha Thadani.