Emraan Hashmi perfectly fits into his role as Raghu Khanna. With his deep roots in Bollywood, transitioning from behind-the-scenes work to becoming a prominent face on screen. He is portraying the son of a media tycoon in Disney+ Hotstar’s latest original feels like a natural progression.
In Showtime, Hashmi draws from personal experiences to bring depth to his character. “When I first heard about the concept set in the glitzy world of Bollywood, I was amazed,” he shares. “With nearly 25 years in the industry, starting as an assistant director in 2001 before my debut in 2003, I felt I could bring my insights to the table. While I may not have been a full-fledged producer, my interactions with them over the years have enriched my understanding. My character naturally reflects these experiences.”
Hashmi draws parallels between Bollywood and its international counterparts. “Whether it’s Bollywood or Hollywood, the dynamics remain the same. It’s a highly competitive environment where survival depends on breaking boundaries and appealing to diverse audiences,” he remarks.
A production from Karan Johar’s Dharmatic Entertainment, debuted on Friday (March 8). As the industry closely monitors its reception, Hashmi hopes for a positive response amidst challenges faced by Disney India, particularly following a tough 2023 marked by subscriber losses.
In the series, he essays the role of Raghu, the son of Viktor Khanna (played by Naseeruddin Shah), a former Bollywood producer hesitant to pass the reins of his iconic Victory Studios to his son. A twist ensues when Raghu’s movie faces criticism, prompting his father to consider an unexpected successor. The ensuing power struggle and familial dynamics evoke comparisons to the acclaimed series Succession, albeit in the context of Bollywood.
Reflecting on his character’s journey, Hashmi underscores the clash between generations and ideologies. “The father-son dynamic dictates much of the narrative, exploring their differing perspectives on filmmaking,” he explains.
Renowned for his roles in Bollywood action franchises, Hashmi experienced a career resurgence with Tiger 3, part of the Yash Raj Films Spy Universe, which garnered acclaim. Simultaneously, he ventured into streaming television, intrigued by Sumit Roy’s concept. “As an actor, I seek growth and versatility, making me receptive to varied mediums,” he notes. “OTT platforms offer immense potential for diverse roles and experimentation, unlike traditional cinema constrained by box office demands.”
