Actor Akshaye Khanna’s high-impact introduction sequence in the widely discussed track FA9LA—from Aditya Dhar’s upcoming spy thriller Dhurandhar—was far more demanding behind the scenes than audiences might imagine. The film, which has been drawing nationwide attention for its intense action design and star-powered performances, is now in the spotlight again after choreographer Vijay Ganguli revealed that Khanna had to rely on a small oxygen cylinder while filming the song’s entry portion.

In a recent podcast appearance, Ganguli spoke about the challenges faced by the cast and crew during the shoot in Ladakh’s high-altitude terrain. The extreme climate and thin air, he said, made the process particularly strenuous. According to him, Khanna struggled with the low oxygen levels during an especially demanding part of the choreography. To maintain stability and avoid health complications, the actor kept a compact oxygen cylinder with him throughout the filming of the sequence.

FA9LA, composed by Bahraini hip-hop artist Flipperachi, has rapidly gained traction across India and is being compared to last year’s viral breakout performance, Bobby Deol’s Jamal Kudu track in Animal. The energy and scale of the song have contributed significantly to the building buzz around Dhurandhar, which already promises high-stakes espionage drama and physically challenging sequences.

Ganguli’s revelation has added a new layer of admiration for Khanna’s commitment to the role, showcasing the physical intensity required to deliver the film’s ambitious visual tone. As excitement mounts ahead of Dhurandhar’s release, the story of Khanna powering through harsh conditions underscores the dedication driving the film’s most talked-about moments.