Tahir Raj Bhasin opened up recently about playing the anti-hero in Rani Mukerji’s Mardaani, which completed 10 years since its release on August 22. He called it a dynamic start to his career as he made his debut with the film which was directed by Pradeep Sarkar.
Speaking on the occasion of the film completing 10 years, Tahir shared, “As Mardaani clocks in ten years, I look back with great appreciation for the unforgettable journey of working on this groundbreaking film. I have immense gratitude for having the rare opportunity of debuting in a YRF film directed by the extraordinary Pradeep Sarkar and starring opposite Rani Mukerji. I distinctly 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 cried with happiness. The feeling didn’t sink in until the day we all met for the first sit down script reading.”
Talking about his experience working with director Pradeep Sarkar in his very first film, Tahir said, “His guidance was instrumental in crafting a charming anti-hero who had style and edge. The distinctiveness of Mardaani lay 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.”
Reflecting on his experience of work with Rani Mukerji, Tahir added, “Sharing the screen with Rani was equally inspiring. She was a star I grew up watching. There was so much to learn from her and her presence was magnetic; her professionalism and commitment to the role was unparalleled.”
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 aired in 2022.
Mardaani released on August 22, 2014, and was a critical and commercial success. The 2019 sequel, however, got a lukewarm response. It was helmed by debutant director Gopi Puthran, who penned the first film and starred Vishal Jethwa as a psychopathic serial killer. A third instalment in the crime-thriller film franchise is in the works, Yash Raj Films announced on Thursday.