Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra took a break from his upcoming project to promote his 'young Milkha' Japtej Singh

It might have appeared unusual for a disciplinarian like Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra to divert attention from his upcoming period drama to a Punjabi film. But the reason was rather special - he wanted to personally promote the latest outing of Japtej Singh, who played young Milkha in Rakeysh's 'Bhaag Milkha Bhaag' (2013).

The filmmaker relentlessly supported the 14-year-old through interviews and in person. Says a source close to Japtej, "Rakeysh has lent unconditional support to him. Japtej's film 'Mitti Na Pharol Jogiya' has been receiving rave reviews. Rakeysh was available for the kid whenever he sought his presence."


Rakeysh had been in touch with Japtej since they worked together. When he got to know that the latter was set to mark his debut in Punjabi cinema, he offered to promote the film - even though it meant taking a break from the prep work of Mirziya's second schedule.

"Japtej is a talented actor and we have formed a special relationship since 'Bhaag Milkha Bhaag'. He has impressed everyone yet again with what he has done in his recent film," says the filmmaker.