Actor Vikrant Mansi Talks Small Pay, Big Learning on '12vi Fail' Set

During a recent segment on a popular talk show, actor Vikrant Mansi reflected on his role in Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s upcoming feature "12vi Fail". While his on‑screen presence was brief, the behind‑the‑scenes journey proved invaluable. Mansi disclosed that his total earnings from the project amounted to approximately three hundred Indian rupees – a figure that prompted smiles and curiosity among the audience.

The actor traced the origin of his collaboration to a recommendation by acclaimed director Rajkumar Hirani, who highlighted Mansi’s performances in the film "A Death in the Ganj" and the hit series "Mirzapur". Chopra acknowledged Mansi’s talent yet expressed doubt about a television actor’s ability to draw theatrical crowds. Mansi took the critique positively, insisting on his willingness to learn and contribute.

When the audition took place, Mansi found himself seated in the exact spot that becomes the film’s opening visual. Chopra, impressed by his demeanor, declared he wanted to direct the young performer himself. Unlike standard schedules where actors join a few weeks before shooting, Mansi was invited to stay through the film’s development phase, observing script changes, casting decisions, and location preparations over a period of one and a half years.

Mansi praised Chopra’s disciplined approach, noting a single mild scolding at the start of production but no further reprimands. The director’s habit of handing small cash rewards – ten to twenty rupees – to crew members delivering strong takes meant that Mansi collected roughly ₹300 during the shoot. He concluded that the monetary amount was secondary; the real value lay in the constructive feedback, the exposure to the filmmaking process, and the mentorship that will guide his future endeavors.