Meezaan Jafri On Love, Life & Everything In Between

Did you know that Meezaan Jafri was Ranveer Singh’s body double in Padmaavat?

The charismatic actor who’s currently revelling in the success of De De Pyaar De 2 has had quite a journey in the movies, slowly and steadily climbing the ladder, and continuing to amass a massive fan following along the way. If you’re following him on Instagram, you’re already familiar with the latter – every post from the actor finds women (and men) asking for more!

But Meezaan isn’t just another good-looking lad in the movies. He’s as much an actor as he is a star. Remember his brooding intensity in his debut film, Malaal? Or those comedic turns in Hungama 2? Not to mention those smooth as butter dance moves in De De Pyaar De 2. He’s got it all and he’s raring to go. As he tells us in an exclusive conversation, his focus is on keeping his head down and continue pushing himself.  

You’ve been dubbed as the ‘breakout star’ after De De Pyar De 2.

I’m extremely happy with the love, the messages and the calls that I’ve received for my performance in DDPD2. More people have started recognising me. They ask for selfies. Some even say, ‘We love you. Can I get a hug from you?’ The other day a mother and a daughter asked me for a picture. The daughter was shy. But the mother caught my arm and kissed my cheek! But I’m aware that success is not permanent. You’ve got to keep your head down and keep working.

What was it like dancing with your father on screen?

We were super excited when Luv Ranjan sir (producer) said that a dance-off with us would be shot. Dad can well be called the ‘godfather’ of dance in India. Comparisons would be obvious. So there was pressure. But it was more important to just enjoy this moment with my father. During the rehearsals I watched him like a fanboy. But once the camera came on, Dad was in his zone and I was in mine both concentrating on our individual performances.

Though you've consistently impressed with your work, there’s been no desperation to make it big and quick. Is that true?

Filmmaking is a director’s medium. He can elevate your performance or destroy it. I want to be part of films where they showcase my talent. Hungama 2 (2021) got stalled because of the pandemic. The world went into a slump. We didn’t know the future of theatres. Being a realist, I realised the need to diversify. I run a business of vegetables and fruits all over India. I’m working on my own music. I’m writing a script, a sitcom as well. 

How do you define your style?

Just because something is trending, doesn't mean it will look good on me. I choose clothes that enhance my personality. A lot of my directors tell the designers ‘don’t give the guy extravagant clothes, give him simple attire!’ That way it’s me who’s carrying the clothes instead of the clothes carrying me. I don’t want to be wearing something so extravagant that it takes away all the attention.

You're big on accessories, isn't it?

I love wearing bracelets and chains. I like wearing earrings too. Earlier, I wore four in each ear. I don’t wear gold. It’s silver for me. As Gen Z would call it, I zero in on a ‘stack’ of charms including a chain, earrings, rings, bracelets, watch… and wear it for months till I get bored of it.

Your go-to style hack?

Black is my favourite. It suits me. I’ve plenty of black t-shirts and shirts. Also you can never go wrong with Nike Jordans. You can wear them to a party, to a meeting… anywhere.

An all-time favourite perfume?

Amyris Homme by Maison Francis Kurkdjian

How important is love for you right now?

Love finds you. It’s not something you go out looking for. If it comes my way, I embrace it with open arms. Currently, I’m single and consumed by work.

When in a relationship, are you romantic/ intense/possessive?

I’m all of it. I’m an extremist. If I commit to something, I do it with my life. There’s no in- between, no half-heartedness. Even if that person doesn’t give it everything, I make sure I do. When you’re in love you’re bound to be possessive because that person is dear to you. But it should not be driven by insecurity. You must have faith in your partner or else it will lead to chaos and become toxic.

What do you find attractive about a woman?

I find women who’re quiet and reserved attractive. People tend to view them as lacking spark or sexiness. A girl could be shy but may have an interesting side to her.

Where do you think lies your sex-appeal?

At first sight, it would be my personality, my physicality, even my hair. I come across as an intense, angry young man. Later, when girls talk to me, they realise I’m a different person. Many love my smile. The way I address women… with humility, respect and politeness becomes a plus.

What's one thing no one knows about you?

I snore!