Pankaj, 60, who has worked with Bhardwaj in films likeThe Blue Umbrella, Matru Ki Bijlee Ka... and Maqbool, the filmmaker's adaptation of Macbeth, said after watchingHaider he can confidently claim that no one could have pulled of the titular role other than Shahid.
"To be very objective I am here in this field for thirty five years and I always knew that Shahid has an incredible capability as an actor. Thanks to Vishal that he has given Shahid Hamlet because every actor in this world desires to play this role.
"I think Shahid is deserving to get the film. Whatever, I have seen in the film I feel proud to be a father of Shahid," Pankaj said at the book launch of Haider, Omkaraand Maqbool.
Shahid has previously worked with Bhardwaj inKaminey,a career-defining film for him.
The actor said his father, who always complained about the fact that he focused more on dancing and body-building, was equally excited when Haider was offered to him.
"My father used to complain that I focus more on dancing and body building and less on my acting. He also said that my dressing style was not very good. When I was going to Kashmir for the shoot and I went to say bye to dad, he just looked at me and said, 'You know that you are going to playHamlet?'" Shahid said.
The actor said that after watching the film his father said his performance was 'ok', which for him is the biggest compliment he can get.
"Vishal sir called dad to see the film and I was nervous. After we came back home I asked him that what did I miss out in the film? And he had couple of sips of tea looked here and there, gave a smile and said, 'No, I think you are ok!' That was the most amazing compliment I have ever got from him- he is one of the best actors in the world and I am very proud of him," the 33-year-old actor said.
The book launch was also attended by Irrfan, Tabu, Konkona Sen Sharma, Vivek Oberoi and Shraddha Kapoor.
Haider hit theatres today.
