Lipika Varma
Tahir Raj Bhasin marked his debut in Bollywood with, “Mardaani” directed by Pradeep Sarkar starring Rani Mukerji and Tahir Raj Bhasin in the lead roles coincides with the first part of the.; Mardaani” franchise.
Tahir feels elated and excited about being in the very first part of the franchise he shares, “As Mardaani completes ten years, I look back at this journey with great gratitude for the treasured journey of working on this ground-breaking film. I have immense value for having the rare opportunity of debuting in a YRF film directed by Pradeep Sarkar and starring opposite Rani Mukerji was also nothing less for me being my debut and sharing the same screen space with her. I clearly remember the moment I was told that among the hundreds who auditioned for the role, after multiple rounds of auditions, I was chosen to play the anti-hero in Mardaani. I still remember when I got this news my happiness knew no bounds. The feeling didn’t sink in until we experienced the script reading on the first day.”
Reminiscing the love Mardaani had received Tahir mentioned “When the film had released, there was so much love and appreciation that it received.” I particularly remember Aamir Khan sir’s tweet for me. He has tweeted ‘Who is this new guy? I liked his performance’. I was over the moon when I saw his tweet for me!
Reflecting on his experience of work with Rani Mukerji, Tahir added, “Sharing the screen with Rani Mukerji was equally inspiring. She was a star I grew up watching. There was so much to learn from her. Rani Mukerji’s presence was magnetic, and her professionalism and commitment to the role was unparalleled.”
Lastly, about his experience of being directed by Pradeep Sarkar in his very first film, Tahir said, “Mardaani was not just a project; it was a transformative experience for me. Working with Pradeep Sarkar was an honour, he was a maverick visionary director. His guidance was instrumental in crafting a charming anti-hero who had style and edge. The distinctiveness of Mardaani lay in in how the anti-hero was projected by Pradeep sir. He had an extraordinary ability to give definite directions but also allow for the space for an actor to explore authentic emotional performances. Every moment with him on set was a learning experience.”
Tahir’s portrayal of the complex and layered anti-hero in Mardaani garnered widespread acclaim. His performance established him as an actor capable of delving into intense and gritty roles with remarkable ease. Tahir will next be seen in the second season of Yeh Kaali Kaali Ankhein on Netflix, the romantic crime thriller, the first season of which garnered immense appreciation globally
