Nikhil Siddhartha recently underwent a gruelling weapons training programme for his upcoming spy thriller directed by Garry in which he plays a RAW agent.
“I wanted to make my role look authentic. There are around 10 high-octane action sequences, including some blindfolded ones, in the film, and hence I decided to take training in handling weapons,” explains Nikhil.
He also said he didn’t want to use dummy guns, though he did opt for dummy bullets. Nikhil shares that extra precautions are being taken on the sets, in light of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins being accidentally killed with a gun on the sets of a Hollywood film not long ago.
Nikhil trained for around 15 days at an academy on the outskirts of Hyderabad. It was the first time he received such training, and it was taking mentally and physically, but an exhilarating experience, he shares. “I literally had goose bumps when I first got hold of a gun. I am glad that I have been getting to do films of all genres,” the actor adds.
The actor also took comprehensive training in all aspects of police work - from rifle shooting and self-defence techniques to sprinting. “I also met former RAW agents and spies to understand the nuances of the profession and their body language,” he reveals, adding that a US Navy Seal officer trained him in certain postures.
Nikhil is also being trained in Krav Maga, the Israeli defence technique.
“I learnt life lessons through these techniques,” Nikhil says, and adds that he wants women to take up such training.
The actor also had to work on his body transformation. “The defence techniques helped me increase my muscle power and stamina,” shares Nikhil, adding that professional body transformation experts trained him.
The team will soon leave for Manali for a 15-day schedule to shoot action scenes.
“We have already shot for a week in Hyderabad, and I am excited about going to Manali. The chilly weather and the snow there will make it even more challenging. But we are all up for it,” says the actor, who also reveals that Hollywood action choreographers will compose stunts in the film.
