My directors often allow me to interpret the character in my own way : Pankaj Tripathi!

Pankaj Tripathi is celebrated for his effortless and distinctive on-screen expression. His role in #Newton brought him fame and a #NationalAward (Special Mention), and once again, he secured a National Award for Best Supporting Actor for his performance in Mimi. This recognition underscores his formidable prowess as a performer. Tripathi is often termed a scene-stealer, captivating viewers even with limited screen time. #Mirzapur stands among the most adored web series, with its first two seasons garnering overwhelming audience support. As Mirzapur 3 approaches, Senior Editor Keerti Kadam had the privilege of conversing with Pankaj Tripathi during the promotional activities. Here are some highlights from their discussion.

The audience is really happy with the trailer of Mirzapur 3, especially the last 10 seconds because of the character of Kaleen Bhaiya. Do you have anything to say about it?
I am genuinely delighted and humbled by the audience’s response. I’m merely a conduit for the story. Viewers will undoubtedly appreciate what we are presenting in Mirzapur’s third season.

Do you have anything to say about your character?
There’s not much to add. I am profoundly grateful to the writers. The audience’s fondness for those 10 seconds is due to the meticulous projection of Kaleen Bhaiya’s character. He is well-crafted, layered, and a joy to portray.

How do you approach your character?
My approach depends on the character’s development and written nuances. I share my ideas with my directors and mentors, who often allow me to interpret the character in my own way. Beyond that, I rely on the script.

Mirzapur was a total hit and brought you significant stardom. What are your thoughts on that?
Indeed, it elevated all of us to stardom. Before its release, we were simply the ‘cast,’ but afterward, we became the ‘star cast.’

Do you think Mirzapur will be talked about like movies such as Sholay after 10-15 years?
Given its popularity, there’s a strong possibility. The series appeals to a diverse audience, garnering appreciation from people worldwide. Mirzapur bridges the gap between mass appeal and classiness, making it a timeless topic of conversation.

Does the popularity of the series increase your responsibilities?
Absolutely. With popularity comes responsibility. We must meet the audience’s expectations. Therefore, we focus intently and work sincerely.

Do you think about your characters, like Kaleen Bhaiya and Pandit Ji, in your real life?
Yes, when I’m alone, I often reflect on my characters. I ponder how they would interact with random people. Recently, while walking, a boy was shocked to see me. I pretended not to be Pankaj Tripathi, leaving him puzzled. Such experiences inspire my portrayals.

What was your biggest challenge while shooting for Main Atal Hoon?
The prosthetics were the most challenging aspect. However, the overall experience was positive. Ravi Jadhav, known for remarkable films like Balak Palak and Nude, is a fantastic director. I enjoyed working with him and look forward to collaborating again.

By Keerti Kadam