Enough of embracing dark and intense characters — be it in Darlings (2022), Jaane Jaan (2023), or Dahaad (2023). Now, Vijay Varma is in the mood for love. The actor attempts his first love story with director Vibhu Puri’s Gustaakh Ishq, opposite Fatima Sana Shaikh. To the audience, his switch from brooding characters to a lover boy may seem like an aberration. But to Varma, it feels natural.

“I wasn’t surprised that Vibhu offered me this part. I came from a stage background, the memories [of being part of romantic dramas] are living within me. When the announcement happened, it looked like an anti-casting because Mirzapur, Dahaad, and Darlings came back-to-back and [gave me] the intense tag. That tag won’t be dropped even with this film,” he says.

Gustaakh Ishq isn’t the first romantic script to have been offered to the actor. A lot of nos were said before he lost his heart to the period love story. “Many romantic films came to me all these years, but I didn’t see myself in them. I don’t want to dance a lot in movies. I don’t want to sing and dance because they are not my forte. So, I needed to pick the script that works for me.” 

There was another reason to say yes to the movie — Naseeruddin Shah. Varma starred with the veteran actor in IC 814 (2024), but they didn’t share screen space. To finally face the camera with Shah is a moment of pride in Varma’s 17-year career. “He was my teacher [at Film and Television Institute of India]. I have worked backstage in his theatre productions. Ever since I came to Mumbai, I haven’t missed a single play that he has done. I’ve idolized him. I feel like patting my own back because as a boy in Hyderabad, I wished to meet him. And here I spent two months with him in the winter of Amritsar, enjoying delicacies together,” he marvels.

Starring in a romantic drama? Check. Sharing screen space with your hero? Check. Does Varma have any more wishes? “I have to do a comedy, not because I want to break an image, but because I want to do every kind of film. It’s just a matter of time with the right script,” he smiles.

The film adaptation of the hit web series Mirzapur is among the most anticipated projects for fans. While actors Ali Fazal, Pankaj Tripathi and Divyenndu are set to reprise their iconic roles, HT City has exclusively learnt that actors Jitendra Kumar and Ravi Kishan have also joined the ensemble cast.

Details of their roles are being kept under wraps, leaving fans curious whether they will step into existing characters from the series or bring in fresh faces. A source close to the project shares, “Jitendra and Ravi Kishan have joined the cast of the film. The mahurat puja took place on Thursday and they were present at the celebrations. Their characters are being kept as a big surprise for the fans.”

The source adds, “Look tests and reading sessions have already begun and will continue over the next few days. Jitendra and Ravi are also part of the pre-production work. The film will go on floors next month.”

While Ravi Kishan declined to comment, Jitendra Kumar remained unavailable for response.

Directed by Gurmmeet Singh and created by Puneet Krishna, the film will release in theatres across India before making its way to an OTT platform. Shweta Tripathi, who plays Golu in the series, is also expected to return.

Shweta Tripathi is in prep mode, not just to return as Golu Gupta in the cult crime drama Mirzapur: The Film, but also for her maiden production venture, Mujhe Jaan Na Kaho Meri Jaan. With double the responsibility, the actor is thrilled to dive deep into both her passion projects.

Having already locked the cast for Mujhe Jaan Na Kaho Meri Jaan — a queer love story under her banner — Tripathi reveals she will begin principal photography on her debut production once she wraps up Mirzapur: The Film.

The Prime Video series, now being adapted as a film, has already sparked curiosity and excitement among fans and industry insiders, particularly with the return of beloved characters. “Mirzapur: The Film will kickstart shooting in September. All my energy will be directed towards it for the next few months,” says the actor-producer, who is currently in the pre-production phase of the Tillotama Shome-starrer.

“We’re in the midst of building the world and locking final details. This story is extremely close to my heart and I’m so glad to have someone like Tillotama on board. I want to give both the projects the focus they deserve.”

The Shome-starrer will go on floors in November. “I am so excited for this phase of my career. It feels like I’m expanding the canvas and emotional core of myself as an artiste, and am chuffed about it,” she adds.

In a panel discussion titled 'Women in OTT: Changing the Script' at The Economic Times Women's Forum 2025, acclaimed actors Rasika Dugal, Tillotama Shome, Riddhi Dogra, Sheeba Chaddha, and Anjali Anand came together to share personal journeys, career pivots, and how the streaming revolution transformed the narrative arc for women in Indian entertainment.

Rasika Dugal, widely recognized for her role as Beena Tripathi in the critically acclaimed web series Mirzapur, opened the conversation with a candid take on the early promise of streaming platforms.

"When OTT first exploded, everyone was suddenly saying 'female-centric story, female-led character'. It was exciting, but I was skeptical. Would it be real change or just another form of tokenism-women doing the same things men do?"

Dugal added that scripts are now beginning to explore femininity more meaningfully. "We don't always succeed because our ingrained references often objectify women. Despite good intentions, visuals can end up sexualised even if that wasn't the intent on paper. We're all working to unlearn and undo that baggage," she said.

Veteran performer Sheeba Chaddha, who has transitioned fluidly between theatre, film, and streaming, spoke of clarity rather than challenge. "I've always approached them (theatre and film) as completely separate mediums and we engage with them differently," she noted.

Tillotama Shome reflected on her shift from theatre to film and OTT, emphasizing the emotional safety the camera offered. "The camera was like an unobtrusive, gentle friend," she said.

"The concept of multiple takes wasn't about repetition-it was about trying something new. It suited someone like me who doesn't enjoy the adrenaline rush of a live performance." She also spoke about the impact of her role in Qissa, where she played a woman raised as a man by her father. The part, she said, reshaped her understanding of gender and identity.

Riddhi Dogra, who played a woman grappling with same-sex desire in The Married Woman, admitted to initial hesitation. "It was a subject that needed absolute non-judgement and great sensitivity," she said. "But when I met the director and writer, I understood the care they were bringing to the story."

She said that a script supervisor-herself in a same-sex relationship-was brought in to guide the process. "I think that is what has sort of resonated with the audience, whoever has appreciated that show, is that they see that care, they see that sensitivity but not overly doing it. We kept it as normal as possible," she added.

For Anjali Anand, Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani marked a turning point. "I came from television-did it for three years after my first web show, back in 2016-17, when the web shows weren't really considered cool. Television throws every imaginable situation at you-especially if you're the protagonist in a daily show," she said.

"When Rocky Aur Rani came along, it felt like the right opportunity to finally show what I was capable of. I had been preparing for it, and I chose to take it on."

Reflecting on her role as Beena Tripathi in Mirzapur, Dugal said the role became a form of exploration-something she hadn't had the courage to pursue or allowed herself to experience in real life.

"I feel I had an upbringing that was as free from gender bias as possible within a patriarchal society. I also went to a college with a strong feminist ideology," she added.

Speaking about changing perceptions of indie cinema, Shome observed that independent films are experiencing a resurgence. "It feels funny-like coming full circle. When I started out with independent cinema, it was looked down upon, and considered neither mainstream nor commercially viable. So it's really nice to now be in an environment where people understand the commercial viability of an independent project. And by 'independent,' I mean having the creative freedom to do what you want."

Prime Video and Netflix topped India’s 15 most-viewed Hindi streaming shows in 2024, while Disney+ Hotstar led in Tamil and Telugu, according to Ormax Media’s ‘Streaming Originals in India - The 2024 Story’ report.

The report emphasized the dominance of platforms like Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney+ Hotstar, which collectively have an estimated 70 million subscribers. It highlighted the growing role of regional content and franchise-driven formats in shaping India’s streaming landscape.

Netflix and Prime Video each had five entries in the top 15 Hindi streaming shows. Mirzapur Season 3 was the most-watched Hindi series with 30.8 million viewers, followed by Prime Video's Panchayat Season 3 (28.2 million) and Netflix’s Heeramandi (21.5 million). The viewership estimates were based on primary data, according to Ormax.

In the non-fiction OTT category, JioCinema's Bigg Boss OTT Season 3 led with 17.8 million viewers. Netflix’s The Great Indian Kapil Show Season 1 ranked second with 15.7 million viewers, while SonyLIV's Shark Tank India Season 3 secured 12.5 million viewers.

The report also highlights a wide variety of unscripted genres, spanning TV extensions, documentaries, game shows, and reality formats driven by influencers.

Netflix also dominated Hindi direct-to-digital films claiming 11 of the top 15 spots, with Do Patti leading at 15.1 million viewers, followed by Sector 36 (13.9 million) and Sikandar Ka Muqaddar (13.5 million).

“Audiences today seek more choices—across stories, devices—and we’re here to meet that demand,” said Monika Shergill, Netflix India’s vice president, content. “The sheer convenience of streaming with improved accessibility and broadband and CTV market growth is leading to a revolution in how we consume our entertainment. Exceptional storytelling enhanced by quality subtitles and dubbing in several languages is enabling more stories to travel and be consumed by more audiences in India and around the globe."

She further noted, “At Netflix, originals like Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar, Amar Singh Chamkila, The Great Indian Kapil Show, and blockbuster movie slates in Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu have demonstrated how entertainment and experience can together become the key drivers of streaming growth.”

Nikhil Madhok, Head of Originals, Prime Video India, stated that Indian audiences are open to good stories regardless of language, format, or genre. He highlighted Prime Video's success in engaging audiences across languages with titles like Mirzapur Season 3, Panchayat Season 3, Inspector Rishi, and global hits like The Boys and The Rings of Power.

"We are in a unique time, a renaissance in Indian entertainment, where all kinds of stories are being told and all genres are being explored on streaming. We will continue to collaborate with the finest creators and storytellers from India and around the world to offer our customers some of the most dynamic, fresh, out-of-the-box stories," he said.

Last year, Netflix and Prime Video unveiled ambitious content slates. Netflix’s 2024 slate included 14 shows and eight films, while Prime Video India announced plans to release 70 series and films over the next two years.

In regional content, Disney+ Hotstar's Save The Tigers Season 2 (5 million viewers) and Prime Video's Inspector Rishi (4.9 million viewers) were the top Telugu and Tamil shows, respectively. Disney+ Hotstar dominated the top 10 lists in both languages, with four Telugu and seven Tamil entries.

Netflix’s Squid Game Season 2 became the most-watched international show of 2024 with 19.6 million viewers, securing its place as India’s all-time leader. Among international films, Prime Video’s Road House led with 6 million viewers.

While the report excluded YouTube Originals, it acknowledged the success of India’s Got Latent on Samay Raina’s YouTube channel, which could have ranked in the top three.

According to Ormax, the report evaluated the top original shows and films released in 2024 in Hindi, International, Telugu, and Tamil across parameters such as viewership, marketing buzz, and content strength. It focused exclusively on original content, excluding theatrical films, catch-up TV, sports, and other non-original streaming content.

“In school I was that student whom parents and friends used to tell me to work hard and study. And then, right now, I am such a front-bencher,” says Shweta Tripathi Sharma, with a hint of surprise. It’s been a great year for her as she delivered two of the OTT’s most watched shows - Yeh Kaali Kaali Ankhein and Mirzapur. After Masaan’s success, Sharma took an unusual route to fame by choosing OTT shows over big ticket commercial movies. 

“I didn’t take that quintessential path, that a heroine should be like this. I want to tell so many people that do not lose on your purpose and your intent. Because to me, that is the most important thing. Following your dreams is not going to be easy. But at least you're waking up to do what you want to do rather than just doing a job and earning money. A few days ago, I saw Richa and Ali's film, which is Girls Who Be Girls. I feel that there is a change that is happening. I'm so glad that not just me, but people around me, people that I look up to, everybody is trying to bring about a change,” she says. 

The success of two big shows have been pivotal. “I don't think a season has been ever announced so soon after. As an actor, now because it's been a few years, I can feel an energy shift. I'm feeling better because I know there is a buzz around us. And I know people want to collaborate with me. We know that Shweta is bankable. She delivers. It does matter what your relevance is. And now because of Mirzapur and Yeh Kaali Kaali Ankhein coming out this year, and the curiosity that people have and the love that the character has got, that gives me that extra power. I have got two film scripts. And both slice of life movies. I would have never imagined that after Mirzapur and Yeh Kaali Kaali Ankhein I will get a slice of life. But that is what I love. That people themselves only don't want to typecast me. There is a certain worth in the projects that come to me.”

And Mirzapur has become a feature film which will roll soon. “I'm always happy when suddenly people recognize me but I know there is a certain love that they have for me because of Golu. They love Golu and what makes me really happy is when these pretty girls wearing stockings with makeup on and hair done up they come up to me and they are big fans of that character. They don't look or feel anything like her.”

We tell her that one of the most beautiful things about Mirzapur is that fact, especially in the second season the women of power are front and center. She says the movie might be different.

“See the thing is that somewhere this is the male world. Women are not the side characters here. I know the majority are men and the power is with men. So that will reflect. So the film I think is definitely going to follow the world and writing and language of Mirzapur but I think it's going to be more of a testosterone heavy film. Now in the trailer and the teaser that we've seen we see Compounder and Munna. That means it is going to be a chapter from season one. In season one the women were part of it and in the film they will be part of it. It feels great that we are the first OTT series to be a movie but it's also a responsibility because of the love and respect we've got from the audience. The creators, especially Gurmmeet Singh, are such good human beings. I love him so much. Because they care about even an actor, the writer, even the spot boys. They will only be happy when everyone is doing well. So when you have that intention, the story will thrive and shine.”

When was the last time a series became so successful that it spawned a theatrical offering? Amazon Prime Video’s smash hit Mirzapur has become the first show in the Indian OTT digital landscape to make the transition to a theatrical release. Abhishek Banerjee, who played Compounder in the crime drama’s first season that premièred in 2018, had certainly not imagined in his wildest dreams that six years on, he would reprise the role for the big screen.

“This character remains close to my heart. It’s a fan favourite. For many years, people would call me Compounder. Playing the character was intense, dark, and edgy. The fact that I get to step into his shoes again, this time for the big screen, is an exhilarating challenge,” says the actor, weeks after the makers announced Mirzapur The Film.

As Gurmmeet Singh, who has directed most episodes over its three-season run, wields the directorial baton, Pankaj Tripathi aka Kaleen bhaiyya will lead the movie alongside Ali Fazal and Divyenndu. Interestingly, even though Banerjee’s Compounder and Divyenndu’s Munna met their deaths in the first and second season respectively, the two fan-favourite characters are being reprised for the big screen. 

Banerjee notes, “Very rarely do actors get to play a character all over again, for a whole different audience, and bring him back from the dead to do so. Compounder’s story has so much depth and rawness, and I know fans have longed to see more of him. Bringing him back is not only thrilling for me as an actor, but it’s also a way of giving fans what they’ve been asking for.”

For Banerjee, Mirzapur has always held a prime place in his resume. After all, it was with this crime drama—that tells the story of power dynamics and gang wars in Uttar Pradesh—that the casting director bagged his first pivotal role in a mainstream offering. While he was originally working as a casting director on the series, he later went on to star in it.

“How can I forget Mirzapur’s casting? At the time, the landscape was very different. Web shows weren’t as exciting for actors as they are now, but Mirzapur changed the game. Many actors from the series have become legit stars today—they’re doing films, more shows, and reaching new heights in their careers. The show didn’t just benefit its cast; it also impacted content creators, writers, and directors. Now, with Mirzapur becoming a film, it’s a great step forward,” says the actor, who had two releases this year with Stree 2 and Vedaa.

Many would say that the Excel Entertainment-backed show, with its heightened drama and elaborate action set-pieces, is perfect for a 70mm experience. Banerjee agrees that there is a larger-than-life quality to the series.

“The show’s essence is rooted in its larger-than-life conflicts—power struggles, revenge, and raw human emotions—that naturally lend themselves to the scale. Every frame is intense, every character arc is deeply layered, and the storytelling has a visceral quality. On the big screen, these elements will only be amplified. The chaotic action-packed sequences, the intricate relationships, and the atmospheric setting will have an even greater impact when viewed on a larger canvas. A film allows for heightened drama and spectacle, which aligns perfectly with the gritty, immersive world of Mirzapur.”

Even as the script is being readied, the actor is confident it will lend itself beautifully to the big-screen experience. “I’m yet to read anything of the film, so I’m operating purely from the excitement of reuniting with the original tribe. There’s something magical about going back to where it all began, but this time on a much grander scale.”

Rasika Dugal exploring the markets of Mandawa

Rasika Dugal recently visited Rajasthan for a project and took the opportunity to explore its historic beauty. Already enchanted by Rajasthan, she got to shoot in Mandawa, a heritage town in Jhunjhunu district known for its havelis. The town's architectural marvels prompted Rasika to take a day off from filming and turn tourist.

She shares, “I had visited Mandawa many years ago for a short ad shoot but didn’t get to explore then. This time, I unexpectedly had an evening off, so we made the most of it. We wandered around the main market, visited quaint shops — one had the most beautiful juttis, so I did my share of festive shopping. We also discovered a store with gorgeous antique laces. Handiwork has always held a special place in my heart. Later, we toured the Mandawa Fort with a guide full of interesting stories. It was wonderful to see how well these heritage sites are preserved. We ended the day with a warm cup of chai at the highest point of the fort, enjoying a stunning view of the town at sunset.”

Rasika also got to experience Jaipur as she wrapped up her shoot. “Jaipur is a beautiful, bustling city. The markets and monuments offer the perfect mix of chaos and serenity. Every corner has a story to tell. I love strolling through the markets without an agenda, and indulging in some pyaaz kachoris. This time, I stayed at a boutique homestay with green lawns and warm hospitality," she says.

The actress, who debuted with Anwar in 2007, has appeared in numerous Bollywood films and is also active on television. When asked about the differences between the two mediums, she said, “Actors find it difficult to choose one format over the other because our approach remains the same, regardless. But I do find the long-form format of series fascinating. The extended timeline allows for depth, letting you explore the character and make adjustments along the way. It also allows for a true ensemble, where multiple tracks and characters can be well-developed. This has especially opened up opportunities for nuanced roles for women.”

When selecting projects, Rasika relies on her instincts. “Creative collaborations are rare, and it’s essential to be open to the possibility that some might not work out. I trust my instincts about the role and the people I’ll be working with, including the director and co-actors. As an actor, vulnerability is key, so it’s important to work in an environment that respects that. We have little control over the overarching message of the story, so trusting the director’s sensitivity and vision is important.”

Rasika further adds, "I’ve been fortunate to experiment with varied characters, genres, and formats. My roles as Beena Tripathi in Mirzapur and Neeti Singh in Delhi Crime are vastly different, showcasing the range performers crave. There’s so much more to explore, which is exciting and keeps me eager to learn and grow. I’d love to try a fun comedy or a biopic next.”

His performances in Mirzapur and Kalki 2898 AD have fetched him more work. With a long beard, it’s actor Anil George’s distinct look that sets him apart. He admits that all these years, it earned him work opportunities alongside missing out on a few too.

“Haan, kaam chala gaya look ki wajah se, but I got work as well because of it. I had to let go a lot of work due to continuity reasons. My dates would clash with the projects that required me in the beard, while others would want a different look. Though we could have used a dummy beard, but the original one has another effect on screen. Ek-do projects mein dikkat aayi thi,” says the actor.

George adds that many people would suggest him to trim his beard to prevent getting typecast. “Mere dost kehte the, ‘Shave off the beard, otherwise you will get typecast. You look of a certain nationality’, and yes, I did get cast as that in films such as Uri: The Surgical Strike (2019) and Romeo Akbar Walter (2019). I would tell me, ‘I’d do it for something big’ and that wish got fulfilled with Kalki 2898 AD,” he says.

With the film doing well, George reveals how it changed his day-to-day life. “Earlier, I would get four to five calls a day for work, but now it’s doubled. My confidence has doubled too. I thought it was a joke when I was called for the film. (Actor) Amitabh Bachchan ji ke saath kaam karna ek khwaab hota hai. I got to do not just that, but also got a chance to work with (actors) Kamal Haasan sahab, Prabhas and Deepika Padukone,” he ends.

Actor Divyenndu built a dedicated fan base for himself when he starred as Munna Tripathi in the popular OTT series Mirzapur. However, he recently broke his fans’ hearts by revealing that he wouldn’t be returning for the upcoming third season. His character was killed in season 2, yet the audience was expecting some twist for his return.

“I feel it was my responsibility. I was meeting people, and they were all saying, ‘We are waiting for season 3.’ [Because I didn’t inform them otherwise], I felt this gave them the false hope that Munna would be returning in season 3,” says Divyenndu. 

The 40-year-old, who recently received praise for his role as Dodo in the series Madgaon Express, shared that he had pre-empted the fate of his character long ago: “But I felt very happy for Munna because there was a beautiful arc to the character, showing how he became responsible, loving and stood up for his wife. In season 1, he was really brash, and people worshipped him. I am happy that I could balance that craziness with some sweetness and tenderness. Amid all the filmy elements, guns blazing and style, it’s important to show the audience these aspects. I felt that if you have to go, you should go out on a high note, and that’s exactly what happened.”

Ali Fazal had wished for it, even pictured in his head how it would be if he ever got the opportunity to work with Mani Ratnam. But years of hoping had not prepared him for the surprise that is Thug Life. The action drama not only marks the actor’s first collaboration with the filmmaker, but also sees him share screen space with his childhood hero Kamal Haasan. Fazal, who has joined the Delhi shoot, says he is a mixed bag of emotions—from excitement to pride and nervousness—but above all, he feels a deep sense of honour to work with the two masters of the craft.

“I am thrilled to be a part of Mani sir’s vision, and I can only hope to bring something of significance to this canvas. It’s an honour to work alongside Kamal Haasan sir and share notes with him. The opportunity to collaborate with two stalwarts of Indian cinema has been humbling,” says the actor about his maiden Tamil project.

Announced in November 2022, Thug Life sees Haasan and Ratnam reuniting 37 years after their acclaimed Nayakan (1987). This time around, they have jointly written the script of the ambitious action drama that also stars Trisha, Silambarasan, Abhirami, Pankaj Tripathi and Sanya Malhotra. While Haasan kicked off the shoot in January with a schedule in Chennai, the team began the second stint in the capital this month.

A source reveals, “This week, Fazal will shoot a few sequences at some iconic markets of Delhi. The team has procured the necessary permissions to film at such busy places. Late next week, the shoot will move to Chennai where it will go on till May-end.”

We hear Fazal will report back to Thug Life’s set only in August after wrapping up Anurag Basu’s Metro... In Dino in June. The source adds, “He has kept his July dates free as Richa [Chadha, actor-wife] and he are expecting the arrival of their baby then. In August, he will juggle Mani sir’s shoot with the promotions for the third season of Mirzapur.”

In the past two months, Shweta Tripathi Sharma’s two series have been announced—the second season of Yeh Kaali Kaali Ankhein, and the third season of Mirzapur. Both shows have been widely popular since their inception.

That’s why it’s not surprising when the actor quips, “To me, these shows feel like long-term investment, just like FD [fixed deposit]. I invested well early on, and now, I get the benefits. It’s a safety net that keeps me comfortable. Shows like Mirzapur are improving with every season. That set is filled with creators, directors and writers who will sit with you and discuss scenes, dialogues and take your inputs.”

But Tripathi is far from satisfied just banking on these. Understandably, the artiste in her is hungry for challenging work. “People in our industry are always there to tell you what they feel will work. But I have never listened to them. It’s important to listen to your gut feeling. It is a noisy industry, so you can’t always hear your gut. Nawazuddin Siddiqui had told me early on in my career, ‘Always make sure you are enjoying yourself, and it’s a good thing to be choosy.’”

Being choosy comes at a price. Sharma is willing to pay it to build a career that she will be proud of. “It is frustrating because there will be months you won’t have work. On days, you’ll break down because you’re not on set.”

She cites the example of Kaalkoot (2023), pointing out how sometimes a well-made series too will go unnoticed. “Director Sumit Saxena gave me a brilliant show. It was poignant. It broke my heart that not enough people watched it.”

Actor Pankaj Tripathi, popular for playing crime lord Kaleen Bhaiya in the web series Mirzapur, is happy about breaking free from the OTT-actor stereotype after the pandemic.

“When cinemas were shut during the pandemic, Mirzapur rose in popularity. In fact, many of my films, such as Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl, Ludo (2020), Mimi and Kaagaz (2021), were super successful on OTT. Though they were made for theatres, we had no other option but to release them on streaming platforms because of the lockdown,” says Tripathi, illustrating that this led to him getting labelled as an ‘OTT actor’.

“They would have worked well had they been released in theatres, too. However, I agree that I do have a lot of presence across streaming platforms. I often find myself in the most-watched category,” the 46-year-old admits.

Having said that, the actor’s assertion that he’s not just an OTT actor, is backed by his upcoming projects, which transcend the digital medium. “I was a part of OMG 2 and Fukrey 3 in 2023, and will be seen in Metro...In Dino. So, ab normal ho gaya hai. I am not tagged just as an OTT actor now,” he declares.

Tripathi, who recently headlined the streaming movie Kadak Singh, says his approach to picking projects isn’t really about the medium. “Main soch kar balance nahin karta har platform ke projects. I have so many franchises continuing, so I am just working on them. I go with the flow while choosing projects,” says the actor, who is gearing up for Stree 2.

Moreover, with the gradual return of normalcy and theatres seeing crowds returning, Tripathi stays optimistic about big screen projects. “The films that are releasing now have the ability to attract audiences to the theatres,” he wraps up.

Two months after it hit theatres, the debate around Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Animal refuses to die down — with many accusing the film of promoting misogyny and glorifying violence. Lyricist Javed Akhtar, for instance, called the movie’s success “dangerous” for the society.

Responding to these remarks, Vanga said in a recent interview with Siddharth Kannan, “It’s very clear in that comment that he did not see the entire film. Now, if someone is talking without watching the film, what can I say about them? You feel bad because it is very clear that he has not seen the film. And it’s not only about him; anybody who is throwing stones on an art piece, why don’t they check their surroundings first?”

The filmmaker further went on to question why Javed Akhtar “isn’t checking his son’s work”. He added, “Why didn’t he tell the same thing to Farhan Akhtar when he was producing Mirzapur. Duniya bhar ke gaali ek show mein hai and I haven’t even watched the whole show. If you watch the Telugu version, you will feel like puking.”

Vanga also reacted to actor Parvathy Thiruvothu’s comments about his films Arjun Reddy (2017) and Kabir Singh (2019) glorifying violence. “There is a Malayalam actor, I think her name is Parvathy Thirovothu. She said in an interview that Joker (2019) didn’t glorify killing. When Joker dances on the stairs while a song plays, she didn’t think that was glorification. I was shocked. She’s a very good actor, and if someone like her can feel Joker doesn’t glorify violence but Kabir Singh does, then what can we expect of the general public?” he said.

Meanwhile, filmmaker Kiran Rao has responded to Vanga’s claim that she didn’t flag off the misogyny in her ex-husband and actor Aamir Khan’s ’90s movies. In an interview with The Quint, she addressed Vanga’s statement that people should “check their own surroundings” before criticizing movies directed by him. “If Mr Vanga has something to tell Aamir, he should tell him man-to-man. I’m not responsible for Aamir’s work or Aamir Khan. I wish Mr Reddy would address his questions directly to Mr Khan,” she said.

Rasika Dugal believes that the most special projects happen when you least expect them. Just when she was ready to take a break, the actor was offered Rohan Sippy’s adaptation of the American series, Unreal.

“I wanted to take some time off, read, and watch movies. Rohan called me for the show, and I have always wanted to work with him,” begins Dugal. A week after the call, she was facing the camera for the Indian adaptation, which also stars Aadar Jain and depicts the behind-the-scenes working of a reality show.

“It was really last minute on the project. But in the madness, I found a part that no one has offered me. My character is snappy, sarcastic, and has a sharp sense of humour. The sarcasm and quickness of the original is present. I liked the series so much that I got bangs for it,” she laughs.

If 2024 has offered Dugal something new, there’s also something old in store. She has wrapped up the shoot of the third season of Mirzapur. Even though she has been playing Beena Tripathi—a quiet homemaker who knows how to get her way in a male-dominated household—in the crime drama for eight years, becoming her all over again was a challenge.

“I’m never prepared enough for Beena. Our characters keep evolving. The journey between the seasons is transformative, so you have to reflect that lapse. Beena is so interesting. [But before reprising the role] I sometimes worry that I have forgotten her. Here, I have to credit the writing that helped me understand the woman. Once, writer Puneet Krishna told me, ‘Aapne sab achche se kiya. The beauty is that you played Beena with dignity’. Before every season, I remind myself of the best compliment I have ever got. I tell myself, ‘Don’t forget to play her with dignity.’”

Adding to the diverse worlds she is inhabiting this year is Kartavya. Shah Rukh Khan’s production, headlined by Saif Ali Khan and her, is reportedly an investigative thriller. Even as she is tight-lipped about the project, she can’t help but underline that it has nourished her as an actor.

“I had a ball shooting for it. I want roles that will take the life out of me. I want to be so depleted that I have nothing to give for a bit.”

Pankaj Tripathi got in a year what many artistes spend their entire career wishing for—critical acclaim and commercial success at the same time. His August release, OMG 2, emerged a hit, and soon after, he won the National Award for his supporting act in Mimi (2021). Have these accomplishments altered his approach towards his career? “You’re talking about films, and here I’m thinking of doing a play next year,” Tripathi says with endearing simplicity, as we sit down to chat about his next, Kadak Singh.

While one would expect him to sign big films after the success of OMG 2 and Fukrey 3, the actor is staying true to his mantra of work-life balance. “I have done a lot of work on screen. So, I want to act on stage now. I don’t take load; we can complicate or simplify our life as we want. When I am not acting, I’m growing plants, vegetables and fruits. But I talk less about my farming background, otherwise, people will make reels on it and say, ‘See, a farmer’s son became an actor,’” he laughs.

That said, the actor acknowledges that the box-office successes have brought him more opportunities. So much so that his date diary is chock-a-block. “I am getting a lot of offers since the success of OMG 2. A few days ago, when I told a producer that I don’t have dates, he offered me more money. I asked him, ‘How will more money ensure dates? I won’t leave the project that I am doing.’”

Novel stories, not money, lure Tripathi. He says Aniruddha Roy Chowdhury’s directorial venture Kadak Singh boasted a gripping story. More importantly, the ZEE5 thriller gave him a chance to shed his on-screen image of a funny, small-town man.

“I get more or less [similar] types of scripts. Either they are Mirzapur or Criminal Justice type, or the character will be a middle-aged man who is someone’s father and is humorous. Here, none of those [tropes] was present. Also, I was so spoilt doing comedy that I’d need humour even in a serious scene.  Many directors tell me, ‘Do your trademark [humour].’ But here, I didn’t use my best-selling item. I realised this was a chance to experiment.”

We can’t end our conversation without talking about the National Award win, his second after Newton (2017). Its mention brings a smile on the actor’s face, making evident its significance in his life. “It’s not sponsored by a company. There is no brand logo on it, unlike other awards. It has Ashoka Chakra on it. It’s a national honour.”

Rasika Duggal, in an exclusive chat with BT, talks about her early days in Mumbai as a young actor and how happy she is about the way the entire ecosystem for actors has changed in the current scenario.

Rasika, who was a special guest at the recently held Prithvi Theatre Festival recently, has won immense appreciation for her performance in Mirzapur and has featured in an interesting mix of projects, says, “I am proud of all the projects. I have done a mix of films and web shows. And if you consider my show Mirzapur, it was mainstream. I have been offered to play bhabhi or sister in commercial films, and I turned them down because the character did not have much to do. At times, it is difficult to say no, but I have been very clear that as a performer, if there is nothing in it for me, I won’t do it. Of course, if there is a central role in a masala film, why not?

The Manto actress gives credit to digital platforms for being able to flourish in this industry as an actress. She explains, “Everyone has their own unique journey. Some have a combination of luck, help from seniors and hard work; others don’t. Having said that, the ecosystem for actors has changed over the years. If it were not for streaming services, sometimes I wonder if I would have got such good work? What would I have done? I feel you need good luck, intent and talent to make brave decisions in this business.”

Talking about how female actors are getting well-written characters to portray today, she says, “I feel female actors have been able to tick many boxes in the past few years and there is progressive storytelling, whether it is a film or a web show. The quality of writing has changed dramatically, it has become nuanced, and every character has something to contribute. You no longer find female actors playing cardboard cutout characters. Now you see them playing a variety of roles that are more human and relatable, she is not just heroic or celebrating feminism.”

It took Pankaj Tripathi almost 15-18 years to get recognition in the film industry. His acting journey is often compared to those of acclaimed actors like Irrfan, Manoj Bajpayee, and Nawazuddin Siddiqui. None of them had one early breakthrough movie, and their path to fame demanded decades of constant hard work. At a recent session, he was asked if he would ask actors struggling for decades, clinging to the belief that ‘If Irrfan, Nawaz, and Pankaj Tripathi made it, so will I,’ to quit the profession and try something else.

Pankaj replied, “Hum keval abhineta nahi hain. Hum hope bhi hain. Zindagi ummeedon pe hi tiki hui hai toh ye kaise kehde ki tum ummeed chhor do? Kaise kehde ki 15 saal kuch nahi hua, toh tum ummeed chhor do? In my own life, things started happening after the age of 38. Nowadays, I see young people giving up hope at the age of 25-26, not just in cinema but in other professions too. Ummeed pe jeevan tika hua hai.”

Speaking at his masterclass on acting, ‘Unique Swagger in Every Role,’ at the 54th IFFI, Pankaj revealed that when he goes on sets, directors tell him, “Aap apna wala kar do.” He added, “Lekin main sochta hoon ki main kitne din apna wala karunga? Audience bore ho jayegi. Audience also expects that the actor will do the same thing. An actor like me has the freedom to experiment. Agar stardom ka darza mil jaye toh hum apne hi create kiye hue aura aur mannerism mein phans jate hain. There are actors who have created an image and then they have to live up to that image in their films and in real life. It is quite visible that they are trapped. For an actor, to be creatively alive it is very crucial that we keep experimenting. Sometimes those experiments will be rejected, but we must try.”

In recent years, Pankaj has been doing back-to-back films and web series. He shared that he analyses the backstory and nuances of his characters to ensure that each one is different. Doesn’t it bother him that he might end up repeating himself? Pankaj said, “I don’t get scared of repetition, but I do analyze it. When we act in a web series, we have to repeat the same role for seasons 1, 2, and 3. I can’t change my face, and even as I experiment with my body language, it can’t be done beyond a point. But I look at it like a painting. Ten paintings by a painter might seem the same. However, if you look closer, you’ll notice they all have different fine nuances. My characters in Mirzapur and Gurgaon are of similar nature but not the same – while the look is the same, both of them have different nuances. If you look at them closely, all (the characters) are different because I created their back story in my mind.”

When asked how he ensures that success never goes to his head, Pankaj said, “Iskeliye adhyatm (spirituality) ki zaroorat padti hai. Almost 15 years ago, I came to this place (Goa’s Kala Academy) for an acting course, and no one knew me at that time. So, 15 years ago, no one recognized me, and it’s possible that 15 years later, no one will recognize me again. Toh sab dharatal pe aa jate hain ki ye sab mithya hai, duniya ek rangmanch hai, jis rangmanch pe tumhara abhi character chal raha hai, aur ek din ye character flop hoga.”

The audience burst out laughing when Pankaj told them that he is evaluating whether he is actually a humble person or if it’s a persona that he has created. He said, “Aaj kal mere baare mein ek chhavi ban gayi hai ki main bahut humble aadmi hoon. Ab main mulyankan (evaluate) kar raha hoon ki main genuinely itna humble aadmi hoon ya main bahut tej aadmi hoon jo humble hone ka abhinay kar raha hoon. Gussa aata hai mujhe bhi, badle ke bhav bhi aate hai, sochta hoon badla lunga – within a second dusra khayal aata hai – chhoro dost, kya time waste hoga.”

Talking about the role of money in his life, Pankaj said, “Jeevan safal toh ho gaya, sarthak kaise hoga? Toh woh 10 lakh ke joote khareedne mein na jaye. Main middle-class aadmi hoon, middle-class soch hai. Jab income tax bharne jata hoon, tab pata chalta hai ki main middle-class nahi hoon. CA mujhe kehta hai aap super rich category mein hain. Main kehta hoon main toh middle class aadmi hoon, toh kehte hain ‘aapka account middle-class nahi hai.’”

He added, “Paisa ka koi mayna (value) nahi hai. 6/6 ke bed pe sote hain, wahi roti khaate hain, aur duniya ki sabse mehengi cheez ye ghadi (watch) hai, jo patni ne diya hai. Isse pehle mujhe ghadi pasand nahi thi. Ab mere paas ek costume designer bhi hai, jo kehta hai ki kapde dohrao mat. Main kehta hoon, ‘Chup raho tum. Main wahi pehnunga.’”