*From Joy Lobo in *3 Idiots* to Akash in Anurag Basu’s new film—Ali Fazal calls it a full-circle moment.*
From Cameo to Center Stage
Ali Fazal, one of Indian cinema’s most underrated talents, stars in Anurag Basu’s Metro. In Dino as Akash, a budding musician. The film, a spiritual sequel to Life in a. Metro, comes out on July 4.
This is a nostalgic comeback for Fazal, who started in 2009 as Joy Lobo—the guitar-wielding student in 3 Idiots. Years down the line, he’s strumming chords again, but this time as a lead actor.
“Life Has Come Full Circle”
Looking back at his journey, Ali had this to say:
“I began with Joy Lobo—pursuing dreams with a guitar. That was my first break. Now, playing Akash feels like a poetic follow-through.”
He added:
“From period dramas to international films, I’ve explored many worlds. But picking up the guitar again on screen is personal. It brings me back to the passion that started it all.”
Working with Anurag Basu & Fatima Sana Shaikh
Fazal also spoke about his experience working with director Anurag Basu and co-star Fatima Sana Shaikh.
Working with Basu sir has been a dream. Acting alongside Fatima was equally satisfying. This movie is a reminder that the music never actually stops.”
A Modern Story of City Life
Metro. In Dino probes love, loss, and bonding in the modern city. With Basu’s characteristic storytelling and a strong ensemble cast, the movie guarantees emotional depth and contemporary relevance.
A Career Based on Versatility
From a cameo in a cult classic to playing starring roles in Indian as well as foreign cinema, Fazal’s journey is one of growth, passion, and perseverance. Metro. In Dino is not just a role—it’s a personal achievement.
About the author
Neha Nikharge is Assistant Editor at Awesome TV and a writer for AWSM Times. Neha covers Bollywood, OTT releases, celebrity interviews and pop culture for South Asian audiences in the US and around the world, and has written more than 4,500 stories for Awesome TV. Story tips and corrections: hello@awesometv.com.
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