Actors Rahul Bose and Manoj Bajpai have starred together in a film called "The Whisperers". But the noise emerging from the sets of this English psychological thriller can hardly qualify as whispers.

According to onlookers, the film's two leading men who play upper-class friends, were constantly quarrelling, much to the discomfort of its first-time director Rajiv Virani and others on the sets.

While it's common for actresses to get into arguments while working together, male actors usually refrain from getting vocal on the sets. Going by Manoj's past reputation for creative dissension, the whispers about "The Whisperers" seemed alarming.

Rahul has however put all speculation to rest. "I knew people would think we were arguing. But the truth is the arguments were entirely out of a feeling of genuine camaraderie.

"We seemed to be fighting all the time. But we are actually friends. We were constantly making fun of each other. It was a genuine bonhomie. Our friendship was unpretentious and real.

"We don't socialise that much. But we are in touch constantly. In fact I am leaving for Kerala for a long outdoor and I will call Manoj before I leave."

Putting an end to the rumours of a fracas, Rahul added: "Working with Manoj was clearly one of the most intense and rewarding experiences of my life. He knows his chops. What's interesting about this project is that I have written but not directed it. Rajiv Virani has.

"I had to rewrite almost everyday, keeping in mind the changing chemistry between the characters played by Manoj and me. We play two extremely wealthy guys."

Rahul seems deeply enthused by the project. "'Whisperers' was home for me with Rajiv and Manoj. If I had to change a prop I didn't have to ask. If Rajiv had to change a shot, he didn't have to ask me."

So is "The Whisperers" another film about male bonding?

"Not the least! It's about the world, power, money and politics and how they affect these two men. We shot entirely in the night.

"I would rewrite from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the evening after rehearsing with Manoj. I would like to think we are good friends."