Q. Shooting KanKhajura dives deep into themes like guilt and family secrets. Was it challenging to stay in that emotional space, or did you find ways to switch off between takes?
Every family and every relationship have its black, white, and grey and that’s what makes us human. KanKhajura really dives into those layers and keeps it real, which made it easier to slip into that emotional space. As for switching off between takes, I think that’s part and parcel of being an actor. We all do it. No one really takes the character home at least, not for too long!
Q. OTT thrillers are becoming more introspective and character driven. What drew you to be part of a story like KanKhajura?
It was really my blind trust in Ajay Rai and Jar Pictures, they’ve built a reputation for backing bold, niche stories that stand out. When KanKhajura was narrated to me, I instantly connected with it. The world, the writing, the complexity of the characters, everything just clicked.
Q. Was there a scene or moment in the script that instantly made you say, “I want to be a part of this?
Honestly, every character was so well etched, each with a powerful journey. I would’ve been happy playing any of them. But I truly believe Shardul, my character chose me. There was something about his stillness, his depth, that pulled me in from the start
Q. The characters in KanKhajura carry a lot beneath the surface. As an actor, how did you connect with that emotional depth while keeping things light on set?
Each character in the show carries such emotional weight, and they were all brought to life by some truly incredible actors. When you’re surrounded by a team that seasoned and committed, it naturally elevates your own performance. It pushes you to dig deeper, be more present. But what made the experience even more special was having Chandan Sir on set. He gave us a lot of creative freedom, the space to explore and bring our own instincts to the characters but at the same time, he had this amazing ability to gently guide us back if we ever strayed too far from the essence of who our character was. That balance made a huge difference. And honestly, it felt like a dream team, we were all so in sync that even the heaviest scenes felt grounded, and between takes, the energy was always light and collaborative.
Q. What was it like shooting in Goa? Did the setting influence your performance or help shape your character?
The best part about shooting on real locations like Goa in this case is how much it fuels your imagination. Being there, surrounded by the actual sights, sounds, and people, adds a whole new layer to your performance. As a character, you naturally start absorbing the local vibe, the lingo, the energy, the way people move and speak, and you can bring those subtle elements into your portrayal. It grounds the character in a more authentic space and makes the entire experience more immersive.
Q. Was there a funny or unexpected moment during the shoot that still makes you smile?
Shardul, my character, is quite abusive, so to get the slang and tone right, I’d go around asking the unit taxi drivers, rickshaw-walas, and even locals for their favorite expression! I’d record them saying it just to make sure I got the pronunciation and felt right. It caught a few people off guard at first, but it always ended in a lot of laughter. Those little moments really broke the ice and added to the fun on set.
Q. How closely do you relate to your character in KanKhajura? Are there traits your character shares with who you are in real life?
Shardul is a deeply complex character. But I think when people watch him on screen, they’ll find parts of him that feel familiar whether it’s his fierce loyalty to his friends or the unconditional love he has for his child. He’s someone who’s experienced deep separation and pain, and that’s shaped him into this blunt, no-filter kind of guy. While I may not be as aggressive or in-your-face in real life, I do relate to his emotional honesty and the way he wears his heart on his sleeve.
