The primary team of the upcoming investigative thriller Daayra — Kareena Kapoor, director Meghna Gulzar, Prithviraj Sukumaran — were present at the audio launch of their film. Meghna’s father Gulzar, who has also penned lyrics for the film, was in attendance as well. On the occasion, Kareena spoke about her working experience with Meghna, describing her as a ‘taskmaster.’

Addressing a question by the media, Kareena said about Meghna, “She is a taskmaster who keeps everyone under control. She is very loving and kind, but on set, she has a command.” In Daayra, Kareena plays Ajooni, an empathetic yet pragmatic cop challenging the larger systemic apathy at hand. 

Also adding that she felt like a newcomer on the sets, Kareena stated, “In 26 years of my career, I have never come across a director like Meghna. It makes me feel like a newcomer. I would rush to the set half an hour prior because I didn’t want Meghna to get upset. I just have to always be in check. This has brought a different dimension to my personality.”

Among other subjects, Kareena also expressed her delight to be sharing stage with Gulzar, adding, "My mother-in-law Sharmila Tagore worked with him in so many movies. Now that circle is complete, with me working with his daughter."

This is not the first time Kareena is playing a police officer. She was previously seen as a cop in The Buckingham Murders (2023) and Angrezi Medium (2020). 

Meghna, who began her filmmaking career in 2002 with Filhaal…, is known for films like Talvar (2015), Raazi (2018) and Sam Bahadur (2023). 

Haiwaan is set for theatrical release on September 18, when it clashes at the box office against Vibe, the Kunal Kemmu directed comedy which also stars Preity Zinta.