‘Ground Zero’ challenged me as an actor and individual: Sai Tamhankar

Bollywood actor Sai Tamhankar has described her role in the recently released film Ground Zero as one of the most challenging experiences of her career. In the film, she plays Jaya Dubey, the wife of actor Emraan Hashmi’s character.

“It was a challenging role. I have never played a character like this before,” Tamhankar told Patriot. “But it has encouraged me both as an actor and as an individual. It has strengthened my belief that I can take on the toughest roles and overcome any challenge.”

Portraying emotional depth

Tamhankar described her character as emotionally intense and demanding. “It was such a powerful role—it taught me a lot,” she added.

Reflecting on the film’s theme, she spoke about the difficulty of fully grasping a soldier’s life. “I tried my best to portray it authentically on screen. Soldiers are unsung heroes who play a vital role in our lives,” she said.

“When a soldier goes on a war, his family goes with him emotionally,” she explained. “They carry the same burden. That is the kind of pressure families feel in such times.”

Working with Emraan Hashmi

Tamhankar said working alongside Emraan Hashmi was a learning experience. “It was lovely to work with him. He is often portrayed in a particular image, but he delivered this role brilliantly,” she said, adding, “I am very proud of him as he is a fabulous co-actor.”

Also Read: Ground Zero is a tribute to BSF and a story that needed to be told: Emraan Hashmi

Known for her performances in films like Black & White, Ghajini, Classmates, Family Katta, and Vazandar, Tamhankar also shared her experiences of shooting in Kashmir.

Shooting in the valley

“We enjoyed shooting in the valley. The people, the food, the locations—everything was perfect,” she said.

Although her packed shooting schedule left little time for sightseeing, she hopes to return. “We were busy during the shoot, but I plan to come back and explore the valley properly,” she added.

Addressing concerns about the region, she said, “Many people think it is not safe, but I call it heaven on earth. I wish more people would visit and experience its beauty.”

Ground Zero had its red-carpet premiere in Srinagar last month, becoming the first major Bollywood film screening in the city in over three decades, as cinema halls in the valley have remained shut since the onset of militancy.

“We are happy that the first screening took place in the valley, where the film was shot,” Tamhankar said. “We hope more films are shot there and have their premieres there too. It would be an amazing experience.”

Based on a true story

Released on April 25, 2025, Ground Zero is based on the real-life story of BSF officer Narendra Nath Dubey, who led a critical operation in 2003 resulting in the killing of terrorist mastermind Ghazi Baba.

The Hunterrr actor, who is currently juggling multiple projects, said balancing various roles is not difficult. “It is my passion and my love. Acting, promotions, shoots, travel—it is all interconnected, and I enjoy every part of it,” she said.

Tamhankar also recently performed a Lavani number for the first time in the song Aalech Mir from the film Devmanus. “I am happy I got to do this on screen. Lavani is part of our culture and the traditional dance of Maharashtra. The audience response has been very encouraging,” she said.