Pankaj Tripathi, acclaimed for his portrayal of the formidable Kaleen Bhaiya in the hit series ‘Mirzapur’, recently shared insights into how the show transformed the perception of its ensemble cast into international stars.
Before ‘Mirzapur’ gained global acclaim, Pankaj recalled, “We were just the ‘cast’ during interviews and promotions.” However, the series’ unprecedented success altered this perception dramatically, catapulting him and his co-stars into the limelight.
“‘Mirzapur’ undeniably marked a pivotal moment in my career,” Pankaj acknowledged. “It’s the show that has truly elevated us to the status of stars.” Reflecting on the impact of his character, Kaleen Bhaiya, he remarked on the surprise and admiration he received from fans, particularly women, after the first season aired.
“What sets Kaleen Bhaiya apart is his nuanced portrayal,” Pankaj explained. “He isn’t the typical cinematic don; he presents a facade of decency and integrity, making him a unique character in the world of crime dramas.”
Highlighting the complexity of Kaleen Bhaiya, Pankaj added, “He embodies the multifaceted nature of human beings. This depth is what resonates with audiences.”
‘Mirzapur’, which premiered in 2018, follows the journey of Akhandanand Tripathi (Kaleen Bhaiya), a ruthless gangster ruling over the lawless town of Mirzapur in Uttar Pradesh’s Purvanchal region. The series has garnered immense popularity for its gritty portrayal of power struggles and crime.
Produced by Excel Media & Entertainment, ‘Mirzapur’ Season 3, directed by Gurmmeet Singh and Anand Iyer, is highly anticipated and set to premiere exclusively on Prime Video on July 5.
Aside from ‘Mirzapur’, Pankaj Tripathi is set to enthrall audiences with his upcoming projects, including ‘Stree 2’, a horror comedy sequel directed by Amar Kaushik, where he continues to showcase his versatility in diverse roles.
As fans eagerly await the return of ‘Mirzapur’ and look forward to his upcoming ventures, Pankaj Tripathi’s journey from being part of the ‘cast’ to a global star remains a testament to his immense talent and dedication to his craft.
