During the filming of "Uri: The Surgical Strike," director Aditya Dhar saw immense potential in Yami Gautam, offering her the director's chair on set. This revelation highlights Dhar's respect for Gautam's capabilities and willingness to break from conventional Bollywood norms.
Gautam, who married Dhar in 2021, has spoken about how Dhar offered her a different type of role in "Uri: The Surgical Strike" at a time when she was being typecast. She played an undercover RAW agent in the film, a role that was quite different from what she had done before. Gautam has acknowledged Dhar's unique perspective and his knack for unconventional choices, noting that he cast her in "Uri" when others didn't see her fitting the role, despite her debut in "Vicky Donor".
According to Gautam, Dhar consistently seeks to innovate and move beyond established patterns. She said that he has a mind that is full of brilliant ideas and unique perspectives.
Beyond offering her the director's chair, Dhar's respect for his crew was evident in other ways. Gautam recounted an incident where a crew member was sitting on the floor, and Dhar, who was sitting on a chair, insisted she take his seat. This gesture, as Gautam noted, was unexpected and demonstrated Dhar's consideration for every member of his team.
"Uri: The Surgical Strike," released in 2019, marked Dhar's directorial debut and was a significant success. The film, based on the 2016 Indian Line of Control strike, featured Vicky Kaushal in the lead role alongside Gautam and others. Made on a budget of ₹44 crore, it grossed ₹342.73 crore worldwide and received generally positive reviews. The film also won four National Film Awards, including Best Director for Dhar.
Before the film's release, Dhar was reportedly concerned about the film's success, even stating he wanted to return every penny spent on it if it flopped. Gautam has expressed admiration for Dhar's filmmaking approach, noting his ability to lead a set without resorting to shouting or creating a stressful environment.
Dhar launched his production company, Aditya Dhar Films, in 2021. His recent work includes "Article 370" (2024), which stars Gautam in the lead role, and "Dhurandhar" (2025). Dhar and Gautam welcomed their first child, Vedavid, in May 2024.
