Ever since 'Mirzapur 2' released, all that people can talk about is the climax scene - about Munna, Guddu, Golu, Sharad and Akhanda. The character of Sharad, played by Anjum Sharma, brought in a twist into the plot.
Did he know that Sharad was going to turn out in the way he did? How has the character changed his life? Anjum Sharma answers all these questions and more in an exclusive interview with DNA.
Here are some excerpts:
1. Did you see Sharad becoming such an important part of the franchise?
When I was offered this role by our director, Gurmeet, it was very clear that the character would have more layers and would stand out only in season 2. I wanted to be a part of it because both the content and cast is amazing and also because I've worked with Gurmeet earlier too. The scene that I had read from season 1, had a classic structure while being very meaningful, powerful and I could vision it as I read more about it. In Season 2, the character is phenomenal, powerful and different. Sharad has unique reactions which allow him control over situations. He looks calm but, a lot is happening within. The character has a strong impact and is getting massive amounts of positive reactions. I worked on my physique and underwent training for 3-4 months to sculpt my body in a way which would give the impact the character needed.
2. Your character brings in some new shade in Mirzapur 2. He doesn't abuse as much, is conniving and as we can all see, is playing a much bigger game. How did the planning and execution of it all come together? Was it given to your during Mirzapur script itself?
The character was always created in this manner. He is full of substance and is calm but, behind it all there is a lot of brain play. In season 1 too, there's a lot happening but, he has his own rules and is focused. For eg: In the series, Sharad believes that even holding a gun is a job. He makes his father understand that he's calm and not egoistic. Although emotional but, always ready with a plan and strategy. Sharad knows his plus points and that makes him unique.
3. Do you see Sharad replacing Munna Tripathi, now that he is saving Kaleen bhaiya?
The equation between Akhanda and Sharad think alike and come across as the perfect duo but, their equation could be complex as I don't know what season 3 will unfold. Personally, I too am interested to learn what happens because Sharad is an ideal son material for Akhanda and vice versa.
4. What kind of response have you received after the show released?
The response was already very hyped after the trailer release of Mirzapur 2 and the choices I made along with my director Gurmeet for Sharad as the character has been appreciated by one and all. We decided to keep the character calm instead of aggressive.
People have gotten their hair cut like Sharad, the calls haven't stopped and people are eager to know more about him. So, all in all, was a very positive and applauded response.
5. Did you also get many calls for new and exciting offers?
Yes, there are certain projects that I'm looking upon but there is nothing I have zeroed in upon. So let's see what happens and for what's in store for future.
6. Has the planning for Mirzapur 3 begun? Can we expect to see more of Sharad in it too?
Well, the way season 2 has ended I'm sure we'll see more of Sharad and we'll also see two very powerful characters on screen, together. I'm excited to showcase and explore more facets of my character in season 4 as well, so let's see what season 3 brings in.
7. Are you involved in the writing process too? Like Shweta Tripathi in Mirzapur 2, would we see Sharad's character arc change too?
I read it again and again and discussed certain things with Puneet about my character. They had a lot of evolution for my character and it was almost towards finalisation but, I had certain things in my mind especially for my opening scene. I'm thankful that the makers were open to suggestions because of which a lot of scenes have the impact that it does. It was a teamwork that made Sharad as character better, realistic and from here on it will only get exciting.
8. On the work front, where do we see you next?
From here on things are exciting and good. I haven't thought of any specific movies or series but, there are so many directors work that excite me. I'm exploring and continuing to learn & grow as an artist
