Veteran actor Manoj Pahwa, known for his comedic prowess in numerous films, is finally breaking away from the shackles of being typecast. And he credits OTT for it. “I am getting different roles, maza aa raha hai,” gushes Pahwa, who recently collaborated with his wife, actor Seema Pahwa, on Koi Baat Chale. She directed the web dramatic readings of noted author Saadat Hasan Manto’s works.

“Even in cinema, there are such good changes happening; newer subjects are being explored. OTT pe itne actors hain. Now there’s no problem with being restricted to the same kind of roles anymore. Even the makers here are ready to experiment,” says the actor.

Highlighting a recent opportunity where he had the freedom to choose his role, the 59-year-old says, “I was presented with two options: one was a script revolving around the underworld and mafia, and the other was a family drama called Home Shanti, and I chose the latter because I could sit and watch it with my family; I could make that decision.” 

Looking back, like many actors, Pahwa experienced the frustration of being pigeonholed into specific roles. “If they see you succeed in a comedy role, five or six producers will offer you similar characters,” he reveals, adding, “Karna bhi padta tha kyunki ghar ka kitchen bhi toh chalana tha. But it’s not the case anymore.”