After the great success of Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s ‘Gangubai Kathiawadi’ (2022), Shantanu Maheshwari has established himself as Bollywood’s favourite with his performance as Afshan. His debut on the celluloid was hailed as impeccable and promising by the critics and audience. Shantanu pulled off the role of a tailor besotted by Gangubai, the madame of Kamathipura (esaayed by Alia Bhatt). Having amassed praises and acclaim for his act in the movie, Shantanu is now honoured with Best Bollywood Actor And Outstanding Performance Award for ‘Gangubai Kathiawadi’ at Wedding Icon Honour Awards 2022 in Goa. The award was presented to the actor by the chief guest of the ceremony, Sonu Sood.
Shantanu Maheshwari said, “I feel honoured with this award for my first film. With immense love, I thank my family and audience for their unwavering support and I thank Sonu Sood for presenting this award to me. The journey has just begun for me and getting this kind of recognition is surreal. I am grateful to Sanjay Leela Bhansali sir who gave me a chance to play the role of Afshan.”
Shantanu brought an old-world romance in the Bhansali directorial in the role of a tailor who’s as innocent as the white that Gangubai is seen wearing in the film. The film captured the maturity in his craft despite his boyish charm and his sparkling chemistry with Alia. His love story with Alia in the film is one of its memorable highlights.