Ali is working with the "Welcome Back" star in the forthcoming film "Tadka" for the first time.
"I was very scared before shooting with him. Everyone had said he is danger, be scared, he is intimidating. But he is such a beautiful person. The thing is, he is such a close person, people need to know him more," Ali told PTI.
The "Fukrey" actor says he looks up to Nana not only because of the advices he has given him, but the way he has battled all adversities in life.
Directed by Prakash Raj, "Tadka" is an adaptation of the Malayalam blockbuster "Salt N' Pepper". The romantic comedy is set in Goa and chronicles how food is something which binds people together, even strangers.
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Ali says food became a bonding point even for the stars in the film, especially when Nana invited them home where they got a glimpse of his humility.
The film also stars Shriya Saran and Taapsee Pannu and Ali, 29, is looking forward to the movie.
"I am gung-ho about it. Prakash is a fabulous director and I am so excited for the film. It's a great story and an amazing cast in place."
He will be next seen in "Fukrey 2".