"I play the role of Joginder Parmar. He is a very rooted and real character," he said.
Hashmi's look is different in the movie. "There were a lot of look tests after the character sketch was given. Eventually this one emerged."
"I had to even work on my teeth and put things on it to get the look. I think it's a great opportunity," he added.
"I gained nine-10 kilos. I had to start changing my diet and eat only fast food and pasta on the set."
Shanghai will premiere at the IIFA Awards in Singapore on June 7, the same day it releases in the UAE.