The Big Sick is important, it deals with Muslims being regarded with suspicion: Anupam Kher

Anupam Kher's latest project was an opportunity for him to broaden his horizons.

The actor was in Hollywood's The Big Sick with Pakistani-American comedian turned actor, Kumail Nanjiani. The film is also Anupam Kher's 500th movie.

According to Mumbai Mirror, Anupam was looking forward to working on the film.

"I loved the idea," says Anupam, "Though I had never seen his work, I immediately warmed up to Kumail Nanjiani. And when I got to know I'd get to work with American legends like Holly Hunter and Ray Romano, I felt it was one more opportunity to broaden my horizon as an actor, having worked earlier with the likes of Woody Allen, Ang Lee and Robert de Niro."

About the film, the actor says, "The Big Sick is a very important film. It talks about racism, xenophobia, cultural isolation and the way Muslims are regarded with suspicion and distrust. And it deals with such serious issues with warmth and laughter. I love it."

Fun fact! Anupam Kher plays the role of Nanjiani's father and he got the role because Nanjiani's real father was a fan!

The Bollywood actor reveals, "Kumail asked his father whom he would like to play him. Apparently, Kumail's father said my name without a second thought. But Kumail didn't know how to get in touch with me and there was no time. The shooting was about to begin. Luckily, they got in touch with me through a relative of mine."

Anupam found out about this and how eager they were to have the actor on board so Anupam "rang up Kumail and said I was Anupam Kher. He said, 'Okay' and hung up. He thought it was a crank call. I called him again and this time told him it was actually me and offered my services. Within no time it was firmed in... Kumail wanted me to grow a French Beard since his father has one. I gladly complied."

Anupam insisted on meeting Nanjiani's father, saying, "It was just two days before we wrapped up. Since Kumail's father was so keen that I play him, it was important that we meet. It was a very emotional moment."

The Big Sick did not come without it's difficulties for Anupam Kher. The actor received his visa, flew to the US and did not get permission to join the shoot. The actor explains, "There was an issue with my work permit. For six out of those 27 shooting days of the film, I was stuck in New York without work. We almost thought I wouldn't be able to do it. But then the permit happened."

The Big Sick, directer by Michael Showalter, is based on real life events of the comedian and his wife Emily Gordon.