Varun Dhawan on his wackiest shoot moment: ‘Maniesh Paul and I started drinking at 7 am, slurred by 2 pm’

Varun Dhawan is known for his energy, comic timing and devotion to his scenes. Recently he shared a behind-the-scenes anecdote that caught fans’ attention: while shooting a drunken speech sequence in the 2022 film Jug Jugg Jeeyo, he and co-actor Maniesh Paul actually started drinking early in the morning to get into character — and by mid-afternoon they were noticeably slurring. This candid confession says a lot about method choices on set, the lengths actors sometimes go to for authenticity, and how such stories land with audiences today.

Why Varun Dhawan chose to drink on set (and what he actually said)

The context: a climactic drunk speech in Jug Jugg Jeeyo

Varun Dhawan explained the moment while recounting “the wackiest thing” that happened to him on a film set. The scene in question is from Jug Jugg Jeeyo (2022), where his character had to deliver an impassioned, drunken speech opposite Anil Kapoor. To capture authentic inebriation, Varun says he and Maniesh Paul began drinking in the morning so their performances would feel real on camera.

The details: start at 7–7:30 am, slurring by 2 pm

In interviews and subsequent write-ups, Varun recalled that they started around 7–7:30 a.m., and by about 2 p.m. both actors were slurring their lines — a sign that the “method” experiment had worked a little too well. He shared the anecdote with a laugh, framing it as one of those on-set memories that’s equal parts funny and educational about the craft.

What this tells us about acting methods and practical limits

Method acting vs. controlled performance

Actors adopt many techniques to create believable moments. Varun Dhawan’s choice falls closer to method-style immersion — using real sensations to trigger authentic behavior on camera. That can produce convincing takes, but it also introduces real physical effects and safety concerns, especially when alcohol is involved.

Why directors and productions usually set limits

Alcohol on set complicates timing, continuity and safety. While a single scene may benefit from genuine inebriation, filmmakers often prefer simulated methods — acting, prosthetics, camera work, or controlled consumption under medical supervision — to avoid impairing performance or endangering the shoot. Varun’s anecdote highlights both the spontaneity of on-set creativity and why such choices are usually handled with caution.

How fans and the industry reacted

Fans found the story charming and human

When Varun Dhawan’s story circulated, fans largely reacted with amusement. The tale underscores his dedication and sense of fun — traits that have helped him stay popular across genres, from rom-coms to action. Many viewers also appreciated the transparent, self-deprecating way he told the story, reinforcing his relatable image.

Industry takeaways: authenticity vs. responsibility

Colleagues and industry observers typically balance admiration for authenticity with reminders about responsibility on set. While the story reads as a harmless anecdote, it’s a useful prompt: productions need robust protocols whenever substances or risky behaviors are involved, and actors need to protect their health and the schedule. The anecdote functions as a small case study in on-set decision-making.

What Varun Dhawan’s admission means for his image and craft

A glimpse into the actor’s working style

Varun Dhawan’s career has blended mainstream appeal with a clear work ethic. This story doesn’t change his professional brand so much as it deepens it: he’s willing to experiment, to take small risks for a better performance, and to laugh about the outcomes. For fans and aspiring actors, that mix of dedication and humility is instructive.

The limits of stunts for realism

It’s worth noting that while immersive choices can boost realism, they’re not the only way to achieve it. Good direction, chemistry between actors, and technical tools (sound design, camera framing, editing) often create the same effect without compromising safety. Varun’s anecdote is interesting precisely because it’s unusual — not a recommended standard operating procedure.

Lessons for fans, aspiring actors and content creators

Keep audience trust by being honest

Varun’s candidness about what actually happened helps demystify the filmmaking process. Audiences appreciate honesty — knowing what’s staged and what’s real strengthens trust between stars and fans.

Aim for authenticity, but plan for safety

For newcomers to acting: creativity doesn’t have to mean risk. Work with coaches, rehearse reactions, and use production tools to achieve authentic moments safely. If a scene requires altered states, discuss it with the director, health supervisors, and co-stars first.

Final thoughts: the story as a snapshot of modern Bollywood

Varun Dhawan’s moment with Maniesh Paul is a snapshot: it shows how contemporary Bollywood blends method moments, star chemistry and candid promotion. The anecdote got attention because it’s human, slightly surprising, and told with Varun’s signature affability.

Most importantly, it reminded viewers that even polished films often contain impulsive, humorous memories behind the camera — and that actors sometimes take unusual routes to reach believable performances. Whether you laugh, wince, or learn from the story, it does exactly what good film gossip should: it entertains and informs.

Also Read: Sahher Bambba: “Even We Didn’t Know the Final Twist!”