Considering Kalank marks Aditya Roy Kapur's first-period drama, the actor had to put in extensive prep before he joined the unit. While Abhishek Varman ensured his script of the Partition drama stayed true to the milieu, the actor, on his part, worked closely with the writer-director to gain a deeper understanding of India in the '40s.

A source close to Kapur reveals, "One of the first things he did after signing the film was to read up on the era. Aditya referred to The Discovery Of India by Jawaharlal Nehru and Twilight In Delhi by Ahmed Ali as his primary material. He wanted to understand the popular sentiment of the time. Even in terms of dressing, he closely collaborated with the designers to chalk out his look, which includes khaki kurtas and pathanis."