‘It Must’ve Been Exhausting’: Abhishek Chaubey Revisits Alia Bhatt’s Career Defining Role as Udta Punjab Turns 10

Ten years after its release, Udta Punjab remains one of Bollywood’s most talked-about and impactful films — not just for its bold storytelling, but for the unforgettable performances that brought its hard-hitting narrative to life.

Directed by Abhishek Chaubey, the 2016 crime drama explored the dark realities of Punjab’s drug crisis through multiple interconnected stories, featuring powerhouse performances from Shahid Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Diljit Dosanjh, and Kareena Kapoor Khan.

As the film completes a decade, Chaubey has reflected on its journey — and in particular, the performance of Alia Bhatt, which many still regard as one of the finest of her career.

‘Alia Was Fully Ready for the Challenge’

Alia played Mary Jane, a migrant labourer trapped in a brutal cycle of addiction, exploitation, and survival — a role far removed from the glamorous characters she was known for at the time.

Speaking about her preparation, Chaubey praised Alia’s commitment and emotional resilience.

“Alia was very much up to the challenge of playing such a difficult part. It couldn’t have been easy, but she was a sport,” Chaubey said.

The director revealed that they had several deep conversations about the physical and emotional trauma her character would endure.

“I told her exactly what the experience does to the character’s body and psyche. It must’ve been exhausting for her, but she was very stoic,” he added.

That dedication translated into a raw and powerful performance that remains one of the most celebrated in Alia’s filmography.

The Film That Sparked a National Debate

When Udta Punjab released in 2016, it quickly became the centre of one of Bollywood’s biggest censorship controversies.

Its honest depiction of drug abuse in Punjab led to intense scrutiny, political backlash, and a nationwide conversation about artistic freedom.

But Chaubey insists controversy was never the goal.

“I just wanted to make a thrilling and entertaining film and for this issue to reach the public at large,” he said.

The filmmaker maintained that the intention was always to start conversations about a serious social problem, not to sensationalise it.

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Shahid Kapoor’s Tommy Singh Transformation

Another unforgettable part of the film was Shahid Kapoor’s outrageous and unpredictable performance as rockstar Tommy Singh.

Chaubey revealed that the character wasn’t inspired by one specific person but was instead shaped from several influences.

He also credited Shahid for helping build the eccentric persona.

“Tommy was based on many people. It eventually evolved into a fairly original character. Shahid brought his own imagination and ideas,” Chaubey said.

The director recalled being surprised when Shahid immediately agreed to the role.

“He told me, ‘How many times will I get to play a character as mad as this one?’” Chaubey shared.

No Sequel, But A Lasting Legacy

Despite the film’s cult status and continued relevance even after ten years, Chaubey made it clear that a sequel is not on his mind.

“A sequel was never on my mind. I don’t even watch my films,” he admitted.

As Udta Punjab enters its tenth year, its impact remains undeniable — from its fearless storytelling to the performances that pushed boundaries.

And for many fans, Alia Bhatt’s Mary Jane still stands tall as one of the most haunting and career-defining performances in modern Bollywood.