Actor Gashmeer Mahajani, known for his versatile roles across Indian television and cinema, has stepped into a compelling role as Major Anirudh Jaiswal in Colors TV and Epic Company’s groundbreaking drama, 108 Base Hospital – Uri. Set against the high-stakes backdrop of Uri, the series uniquely merges the intensity of an army drama with the urgency of a medical show, delivering a fresh and disruptive format for television viewers.
Embodying a member of the armed forces brings a profound sense of duty that alters how an actor carries themselves on set. Speaking about stepping onto set in full military attire for the first time, Gashmeer shares, “Wearing the uniform instantly instils a deep sense of pride and responsibility. There is a specific decorum, posture, and discipline you must uphold—you simply cannot carry yourself like a civilian once you put it on. Along with the pride, it brings a real weight of accountability.”
Filming on location near sensitive border regions in Kashmir provided the cast with a firsthand look at the relentless dedication of India’s soldiers. Reflecting on what moved him most during his shoot, he reveals, “Shooting in sensitive areas close to the Kashmir border put everything into perspective. We saw real soldiers standing guard at their posts for 18 to 20 hours a day in freezing temperatures and pouring rain without wavering. Experiencing that firsthand filled us with immense gratitude.”
The distinct premise of 108 Base Hospital – Uri offers a narrative rarely explored on Indian television. What drew Gashmeer to the character of Major Anirudh was the emotional and moral complexity required for the role. “The dynamic duality of my character drew me to it. Playing an army doctor means embodying a fascinating paradox—one moment you are saving lives, and the next, you may have to take them. Exploring that conflict as an actor is incredibly compelling.”
With its authentic production values and realistic storytelling, the project holds a significant position in the actor’s varied filmography. Gashmeer emphasises the show’s place in his body of work. “This show holds a very special place in my heart and stands high among the work I’ve done. It has been shot authentically in a truly impressive space, offering a disruptive format for Indian television that gives me a great sense of pride.”
Unlike traditional long-running daily soaps, 108 Base Hospital – Uri follows a structured, limited-episode narrative. Gashmeer notes how this storytelling format benefits his craft. “Having a finite, well-defined narrative is deeply satisfying as an actor. Knowing the character’s journey has a clear and intentional conclusion allows for a much more focused performance.”
Gashmeer speaks warmly of sharing the screen with co-star Erica Fernandes. “Working with Erica has been wonderfully satisfying. She is a true professional—approachable, non-judgmental, and incredibly resourceful. She creates an easy, comfortable environment on set.”
Beyond the action and medical emergencies, the series aims to offer audiences a heartfelt look at the personal lives of military personnel. Sharing his hope for what viewers take away, Gashmeer explains, “Audiences will get an intriguing look into how military personnel balance their duty with their personal lives. It tells a deeply human story about the impact service has on relationships, shedding light on a side of army officers that deserves to be seen.”
