Javed Akhtar Unknowingly Suggested Shabana Azmi for ‘Dabba Cartel’—She Was Already Cast!

Shibani Dandekar reveals how the legendary actress joined the Netflix series, fulfilling a lifelong dream and an unexpected casting twist.

In a recent interview, Shibani Dandekar shared insights into the casting process of the Netflix series Dabba Cartel, highlighting the involvement of her mother-in-law, Shabana Azmi. Dandekar disclosed that during the lockdown, she mentioned the project to both Javed Akhtar and Shabana Azmi. Later, when discussing casting options with Akhtar, he suggested Azmi for a role, unaware that she was already under consideration. Dandekar remarked, “I don’t think he had any idea that she was already someone we wanted.”

Azmi’s enthusiasm for the project was evident during a brief five-minute Zoom conversation, where she appeared to have made up her mind to join even before hearing the full pitch. Dandekar noted that Azmi didn’t seem to be fully listening to the details during their discussion. This eagerness was not merely due to familial ties but also stemmed from Dandekar’s profound admiration for Azmi’s work. Growing up in Australia, Dandekar’s sole connection to Hindi cinema was a videotape of Shekhar Kapur’s Masoom, featuring Azmi, which she watched repeatedly. She estimated viewing the film over 400 to 500 times, leading to a long-held dream of collaborating with Azmi. The eventual family connection made Azmi’s involvement in Dabba Cartel even more fitting.

Dabba Cartel, now streaming on Netflix, showcases the talents of Shabana Azmi alongside Anjali Anand, Shalini Pandey, Gajraj Rao, and Jyotika in pivotal roles.