âœEnergy shifted when he walked inâ – Bhumi Pednekar on Ranveer Singhâs Band Baaja Baaraat audition

Ranveer Singh may be one of Bollywood’s most dynamic performers today, but according to Bhumi Pednekar, that magnetic quality was visible long before the fame. Recalling his audition for Band Baaja Baaraat, Bhumi shared that the shift in the room was immediate when he entered.

“The energy shifted when he walked in,” she said, describing the moment when Ranveer arrived for his audition for the now-iconic 2010 film.

She said, “There was confidence, yes, but also ease. He didn’t appear intimidated by the process. Instead, he seemed completely immersed in the character. His performance wasn’t polished in a rehearsed way; it felt instinctive.” Bhumi hinted that it wasn’t just about delivering lines well, it was about presence. The kind that draws attention without demanding it. “I think he was just high on himself… You’d think—he’s a newcomer coming in for an audition; where does that chutzpah come from?” she noted.

What makes her recollection striking is how accurately it mirrors the Ranveer audiences know today. Whether he’s playing an intense historical figure or a street rapper, he commits fully. That wholehearted abandon, Bhumi suggests, was visible from day one.

Band Baaja Baaraat went on to become a commercial and critical success, effectively launching Ranveer’s career. In hindsight, it feels inevitable. But at that time, it was simply an audition, one that left an impression strong enough to be remembered years later.

Opening up about Ranveer’s recent endeavours, Bhumi said, “I thoroughly enjoyed him in Dhurandhar—I was like, this guy can do anything. I loved him in Lootera. He’s as much a chameleon as any actor should be.”