In a candid chat with IWMBuzz, Mukesh Chhabra keeps the conversation honest and direct, touching on casting choices, industry shifts, and the mindset actors need to survive.
Speaking about the strong run of Dhurandhar 2, Mukesh Chhabra says the response has been encouraging, especially because audiences are now more open to content-driven cinema. He believes success today is not just about big names, but about how well a story connects. For him, casting plays a key role in that connection. The right face can change how a character feels on screen, and that is where his focus always lies.
Mukesh Chhabra also reflects on how casting has changed over the years. Earlier, there were fixed ideas about who fits where. Today, those lines are slowly fading. Filmmakers are more willing to take risks, and audiences are accepting fresh faces and different choices. He points out that this shift has opened doors for many actors who may not come from a film background.
One thing Mukesh Chhabra makes very clear is that he does not see a divide between television and film actors. According to him, talent does not depend on the platform. An actor who performs well will find space, whether in television, film, or digital. He adds that many television actors bring strong discipline and experience, which works in their favour during auditions and on set.
Sharing a bit about his process, Mukesh Chhabra says casting is not just about finding someone who looks right. It is about understanding the character and matching it with the right energy. Sometimes, it takes multiple rounds and long discussions. At other times, the right person walks in and fits instantly. That unpredictability is what makes casting both challenging and exciting.
He also speaks about the pressure behind big projects. With films like Dhurandhar 2 doing well, expectations naturally go up. But Mukesh Chhabra says he prefers to stay grounded and focus on the work rather than the noise around it. For him, every project is different, and each one needs its own approach.
When asked about aspiring actors, Mukesh Chhabra keeps his advice simple. He says consistency matters more than anything else. Rejections are part of the process, and actors need to be prepared for that. Instead of chasing quick fame, he suggests focusing on improving craft and being patient.
He also talks about breaking stereotypes in the industry. According to Mukesh Chhabra, the idea of a “fixed type” actor is slowly going away. Today, actors are experimenting more, and casting teams are open to seeing them in new roles. This change is helping create more realistic and relatable characters on screen.
Looking at the future, Mukesh Chhabra feels the industry is moving in a good direction. With more platforms, more stories are being told, and that means more opportunities for actors. He believes the coming years will be even more open and competitive, with only genuine talent standing out.
Through this conversation, Mukesh Chhabra gives a clear message—there is no shortcut to success in acting. The journey may take time, but with the right attitude and effort, there is space for everyone.
