After 27 years in the industry, Vinay Anand is stepping into a bold new phase of his career with his web series role as ACP Vikrant on Kutingg. Known for his comic timing and romantic, family-friendly roles, the actor is now embracing a darker, more complex character, marking a significant shift in his on-screen image.
Speaking about whether this role will change audience perception, he said, “Yes, definitely. People have mostly seen me in comedy roles or as a hero, romantic, light-hearted, and family-friendly. But seeing me as Mohan, a grey-shaded character, will be a completely different experience for the audience. It’s something they probably wouldn’t have expected from me. I also feel that this has helped expand my range as an actor, and in a positive way.”
Having successfully worked across Bollywood and Bhojpuri cinema, Vinay Anand reflects on the risks that shaped his journey, “Yes, it was a big challenge. I started my career in Bollywood and later took a risk by moving into Bhojpuri cinema, unsure if I would be accepted there. There were many doubts, but I went ahead and ended up doing around 60–70 films as a hero, with a very successful run. Now I’m back in Bollywood with a grey-shaded role in a Balaji Telefilms web series, and again there’s a question of acceptance. But it feels great. There’s so much content being created today, and I’m ready to take on such risks.”
Reflecting on his evolving mindset and audience connection, he added, “There’s been a big shift in my thinking over the past five years. With 27 years of experience in the industry, I have a strong audience base in the North, especially in the Bhojpuri industry, and Hindi viewers also know me from films like Aamdani Atthani Kharcha Rupaiya. People are familiar with that image of me, but with ACP Vikrant, they’ll see a completely different side. The only concern is making sure audiences are aware of this web series, especially in regions like UP, Bihar, and Jharkhand, where I have a strong connection.”
Vinay added, “At this stage of my career, I would still love to collaborate with great actors and directors in the industry. If I come across a strong script and feel that there’s good scope for me to act and perform, I would be more than happy to be a part of it.”
With ACP Vikrant, streaming exclusively on the Kutingg app, Vinay Anand is clearly aiming to redefine his image, proving that even after decades in the industry, reinvention is always possible.
