by Subhash K Jha

Believe it or not the 27-year old Sammir Dattani got along like a house on fire with his director the 65-year old veteran Shyam Benegal while shooting for Well Done, Abba in Hyderabad.

The unlikely duo was often seen in earnest discussion on the sets, and even enjoying a conversational dinner at the hotel where they were staying.

Says Sammir, "Like any actor I'm completely in awe of Shyam Babu. I've seen his films like Ankur and Bhumika so many times I know every frame backwards. When I got a chance to work with him I was over the moon.

I thought I'd learn a lot about cinema from him. But he had so much more to give. Shyam Babu is a pro on every subject on this earth. I so enjoyed my shooting there not just on camera but even during off hours."

Shyam Babu and Sammir got along so well that the seasoned filmmaker would invite the young actor to join him for dinner. "I quite started looking forward to having those early 9 pm dinners with Shyam Babu. He'd call in my room and say, 'Young man, would you care to join me ?" I'd drop everything and run."

The bonding being so beautuful don't be surprised if Shyam Benegal decides to work with Sammir again very shortly. Watch this space for more on that front. Well done, Sammir!