Shetty, 42, is known for directing great action sequences in his films.
"It is for the first time that I was doing action. I was nervous. I was enthusiastic as well. I wanted to do it myself but Rohit sir asked me to put pads. Overall it has been a great experience," Varun told reporters at the trailer launch of "Dilwale" here last night.
The 28-year-old "Student of the Year" actor said working with Shetty in "Dilwale", which has Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol in lead roles, was a dream come true.
Before sharing screen space with them, Varun worked as an assistant director on "My Name Is Khan" that featured the hit Bollywood pair.
"It is a crazy moment to be part of a Shah Rukh-Kajol film. I feel it is my destiny. I was an assistant director on the sets of 'My Name Is Khan'. I always wanted to work with Rohit Shetty. Three years into my career and I am living this dream. God has been great," Varun said.
"Dilwale" is Shah Rukh and Varun's first movie together. The 50-year-old superstar couldn't stop praising the rising star.
"Varun is the most hardworking and dedicated actor I have worked with. He is going to be the stand out point of the film when it releases," he added.
In the film, Varun plays Shah Rukh's younger brother.
He would be seen romancing Kriti Sanon. The film releases December 18.