Introduction: A Survivors’ Tale from the Road Set
Bollywood actor Vivek Oberoi recently opened up about a terrifying moment from the 2002 filming of the blockbuster action-drama Road. As he gears up for his next venture, Mastiii 4, Oberoi revisits a near-fatal accident that could have changed the course of his life and career. He recalls repeated warnings to the driver about night travel, only to have rods from a camel cart crash through the windshield, narrowly missing him.
The Incident: When Night Driving Turned Into a Brush With Fate
During the intense shoot for Road, safety concerns about night-time driving were sounded repeatedly. Despite these cautions, the team pressed on, trusting the plan and the crew in charge of the sequences. It was on one fateful night that the caravan of filming gear — and a camel cart used as a prop in a pivotal scene — sent shockwaves through the set. Rods from the cart smashed into the windshield, sending glass and debris spiraling toward the actors. Oberoi recalls the moment with clarity: a split second of fear, a burst of adrenaline, and a realization that he had narrowly escaped serious injury.
Resilience Under Pressure: How He Kept Calm and Focused
In his recounting, Oberoi emphasizes the importance of staying calm when danger strikes on a bustling film set. He describes how trained professionals nearby sprang into action, securing the area and ensuring that everyone remained safe while the scene was reworked. The experience underscored a broader message about risk management in filmmaking: even with the best intentions, safety protocols must be non-negotiable, especially when working with heavy equipment and unpredictable props.
Impact on Career and On-Set Practices
The harrowing episode became a turning point in how Oberoi approached his craft and his safety on future projects. While Road went on to become a landmark film in his career, the memory of that night served as a reminder of the fragility of stunts and the need for meticulous planning. In the years since, the industry has witnessed improvements in on-set safety standards, with more stringent protocols for night shoots, vehicle stunts, and the use of prop gear during high-risk sequences.
Looking Ahead: Mastiii 4 and the Return to the Spotlight
With Mastiii 4 on the horizon, Oberoi reflects on his journey from the Road days to his current projects. The near-death experience did not deter him; instead, it fortified his resolve to deliver authentic performances while advocating for safer filming environments. He continues to explore diverse roles that challenge him while reminding fellow artists and crews that safety should never be compromised for entertainment.
Conclusion: Lessons From a Narrow Escape
Vivek Oberoi’s account of surviving the Road accident highlights a universal truth in cinema: behind every dramatic scene lies a careful balance of risk and precaution. The actor’s candor about the night he came within inches of tragedy resonates with filmmakers, crews, and audiences who value both gripping storytelling and responsible production practices. As his career advances, the memory of that windshield moment remains a powerful reminder of why safety must always drive the take.
