Tamil Blockbuster ‘Amaran’ achieves global success, elevating Rohman Shawl to stardom

(January 7, 2025) Model-actor Rohman Shawl is thrilled with the response to his portrayal of terrorist Asif Wani. Every time someone mentions how much they loathed the character, Rohman sees it as a mark of success. That’s the level of impact Amaran, the Tamil blockbuster, has delivered—and he’s savoring the recognition.

Until now, Rohman was more widely recognized for his personal life, particularly his relationship with former Miss Universe and actor Sushmita Sen, than for his professional work. But Amaran has shifted the focus entirely, with his phone ringing non-stop since the film’s release.

“Playing an antagonist was refreshing and new for me. People really hated my character and wanted me dead in the movie. That shows the audiences liked me and my work immensely,” Rohman says with a smile in a conversation with Global Indian.

Rohman Shawl

A Global Success

Rohman Shawl has had plenty to celebrate after the success of Amaran.The film made a remarkable global debut, earning over $4 million on its opening weekend and amassing $16 million worldwide. After three weeks, Amaran has become the second-highest-grossing Tamil film and the ninth-highest-grossing Indian film of 2024.

Starring Sivakarthikeyan in the lead, the movie tells the compelling real-life story of Indian soldier Major Mukund Varadarajan. Reflecting on how he landed the role, Rohman recalls, “The film director (Rajkumar Periasamy) called me and told me that one of his friends had recommended me for the role. He saw my photographs and was convinced that I was best suited for it.”

Life After Amaran

The actor says he was drawn to Rajkumar Periasamy’s vision for the film. “I did not even ask for a script. The director knew his thing, and it paid off. My character (Asif Wani) is a huge hit; it’s my new identity,” smiles the 32-year-old. He describes the experience of shooting the film as deeply fulfilling. “It makes me feel grateful,” says the budding star.

Has life changed after Amaran? “Yes, of course. I’m getting more offers now. I’m in talks with three different projects currently, two from Bollywood and one from Tollywood. All I can tell you is that each role is different, very different,” he insists, keeping further details under wraps until he signs on the dotted line.

“Eventually, I want to play all kinds of roles,” declares Rohman, who thrives on challenging himself. Anything specific? “I would love to play an athlete; I have it in me. Also, I would want to explore more comedy and a romantic film for sure,” he shares. For now, though, he’s focused on exploring different kinds of antagonist roles. “The cool antagonist,” he adds with a grin.

A ‘model’ life

From an early age, Rohman’s good looks didn’t go unnoticed. Friends and even teachers would often encourage him to try modelling. “I never thought on those lines. But when I got into college and started hitting the gym, people around me said I should indeed try modelling. That’s when I started making efforts,” he explains.

With the right contacts, Rohman made the move to Bombay in 2016-17. Once there, he noticed many of his modelling peers transitioning into acting. Starting as a ramp model for various fashion designers, Rohman went on to collaborate with renowned Indian fashion designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee.

Shooting in Pattaya

In 2023, Rohman Shawl traveled to Pattaya to shoot an advertisement for Raymonds. “The city’s vibrant energy, stunning beaches, and dynamic urban landscape provided the perfect backdrop for the project,” he recalls, describing the experience as unforgettable.

Over three days, he captured serene sunrises on the beach and lively moments in the bustling streets of Pattaya. “The local culture and warm hospitality made the entire process even more special, and the team’s collaboration brought the brand’s vision to life seamlessly,” he shares.

Despite the usual challenges of location shoots, like unpredictable weather, Rohman found the breathtaking scenery and creative opportunities well worth it. “Pattaya truly added a unique charm to the campaign, and it’s a place I’d love to return to for future projects,” he says, fondly recalling the “best ever” coconut ice cream he enjoyed there.

Kashmir connection

Rohman Shaul was born in Kashmir in January 1991. Shortly after his birth, his parents, Riyaz Ahmed Shaul and Humera Riyaz Shaul, along with his sister Nadia, relocated to Nainital in Uttarakhand. “All three made me the person I am today,” says Rohman, who attended Amtul’s Public School in Nainital.

Having no vivid memories of his early childhood in Kashmir, Rohman identifies more with Nainital as his hometown. “I only visited Kashmir during holidays or weddings,” he shares. Nevertheless, he holds his Kashmiri heritage close to his heart, has a deep appreciation for traditional wazwan, and speaks some Kashmiri.

The Shaul family has preserved their Kashmiriyat, even after years of living in Nainital.

Following in His Father’s Footsteps

Rohman’s love for sports stems from his father, a former Ranji Trophy cricketer, whose influence shaped much of his childhood. Rohman actively pursued cricket and football, representing his school in both disciplines.

“Sports taught me self-discipline, which has been invaluable in my acting career,” he says. As captain of both teams, he not only excelled on the field but also developed leadership skills. He was also a talented sprinter, winning many races during his school years. Rohman credits his physical education teacher, Lalit Shah, for instilling in him the discipline and focus that continue to guide him.

Early Steps into Acting

Rohman’s entry into acting wasn’t planned. “When I spoke to my friends from the modeling world, I learned they had joined acting classes, so I followed suit at a Mumbai-based agency. However, I wasn’t particularly interested in acting back then,” he says.

Shortly after, he auditioned for a film and was cast. However, a month after he got his break, the project was shelved. “I was heartbroken and decided not to pursue acting anymore. I stayed away from it for the next four years,” he recalls.

Although he distanced himself from acting, fate had other plans. Years later, Rohman returned to the industry with his debut film, Azaadi – The War Within, which is slated for release in a few months. His second project, My Father’s Doctor, followed soon after.

The Significance of Azaadi

“Azaadi is special as I faced the camera for the first time. It was a great experience. Once this project was completed, I became even more confident in acting and decided to pursue it full time,” Rohman explains.

In the film, he plays a multifaceted character—a police officer in Jammu and Kashmir who is also a lover and a family man. “A policeman, a lover, and a family man—I got to play them all, which was challenging. But the director made me comfortable,” he says.

While Azaadi marked a turning point in his career, Rohman describes My Father’s Doctor as “a wonderful film,” signaling his growing passion for the craft.

Looking ahead

Rohman has had his shares of triumphs and disappointments, and has learned the importance of living in the moment. “I don’t plan too much for the future. I’m enjoying my present. I had not been taking work seriously earlier, and now that I have, I would like to stick to it,” he says.

Travel has also always been a significant part of his life, and one of his dreams is to take his parents on a world tour—a way to share his passion while showing his gratitude for their support. And although he travels extensively, Dubai tops his list of favourite places to visit. I have a special connection with this beautiful place. I keep going back—it’s my comfort zone, and there’s nowhere in the world quite like Dubai,” he says.

Creative Pursuits

When he’s not working, Rohman Shawl prefers staying at home, focusing on self-improvement, binge-watching shows, or catching up with friends. “I like to write quotes about life, which I draw from my conversations with family and friends,” he says.

In addition to writing, Rohman spends his free time on charcoal sketching, singing, playing the guitar, and cooking. He also stays active by playing football regularly. “I’ve started doing a bit of gardening as well. I love greenery and enjoy watering the plants and learning more about them,” he adds.

Looking ahead to 2025, Rohman plans to focus on solo travel. “I want to overcome my fear of water, so I’ve decided to dive and swim as much as I can. I’ll be exploring more of Europe, among other countries. Most importantly, I’ll be doing a lot of work,” he concludes.

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