Though they have never shared the screen, actors Alia Bhatt and Samantha Ruth Prabhu share an endearing bond and the grand pre-release event for the Bollywood actor’s upcoming film Jigra, held in Hyderabad on Tuesday, underscored this connection. Samantha was among the many celebrities in attendance, including star director Trivikram and actor Rana Daggubati, all there to promote the action thriller helmed by Vasan Bala.

While addressing the massive gathering, Alia expressed her deep affection for Samantha, praising her as a role model. Alia’s heartfelt words moved Samantha, who became visibly emotional while listening to the National Award-winning actor. “Sam, my dearest Samantha… Rightfully so, you are a hero, on and off screen. I have so much admiration for your talent, resilience, and strength,” Alia said, as Samantha’s eyes filled with tears. “It’s not easy to be a woman in a man’s world. But you have surpassed gender. You stand tall on your two feet, with your talent and strong kicks, as an example for everyone.”

Alia Bhatt mentioned that when she texted Samantha Ruth Prabhu requesting her presence at the event, the Kushi actor agreed instantly. Alia added that it “shows the material that you are made of.” The Jigra actor further went on to request Trivikram to make a movie featuring her and Samantha. “They say, actresses usually compete with each other, but there’s no such thing. I am so grateful that today, I have a pan-India superstar here to support my film,” she added.

Produced by Karan Johar, Apoorva Mehta, Alia Bhatt, Shaheen Bhatt and Soumen Mishra under the banners of Dharma Productions and Eternal Sunshine Productions, Jigra also stars Vedang Raina, Aditya Nanda and Sobhita Dhulipala in key roles. The movie will hit the screens this Friday.

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