Teaching physics at a coaching centre for IIT aspirants was a side-gig for Jitendra Kumar while he struggled to establish his acting career. Little did he know that years later, the experience would come in handy when shooting for Kota Factory. In a way, the web series and Kumar have grown together. From its humble beginnings on TVF, Kota Factory today has become a successful show, with Netflix India acquiring its second season. Similarly, Kumar — or Jeetu bhaiyya to his fans — is returning to the show as a bona fide OTT star with a hit film under his belt.

“Kota Factory has changed my life,” says the actor, who plays an assured teacher in the drama. “This is one of those roles where I could use my real-life experiences. I taught IIT aspirants, and have studied in Kota. I saw many teachers who had nuances like Jeetu bhaiyya. So, this character fills me with nostalgia.”

The second season will take ahead the story of teenager Vaibhav and his bond with his teacher. “My take-away from this show is that if you want to achieve something, keep working towards your goals. There will be people who will help you in your journey; you need to find them.”

The actor is surely attaining his goals, with or without support. The past year has been crackling for Kumar, who shone in Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan and followed it up with Panchayat. How does he feel about the newfound stardom? “People love you for the characters you play, and I am grateful for that. I wish I could consider myself a star, but I still have to do grocery shopping for my kitchen.”