Veteran actor Rakesh Bedi is receiving widespread acclaim for his powerful portrayal of politician Jameel Jamali in the recent Bollywood hit, Dhurandhar. His performance has captivated both critics and audiences, drawing praise from an unexpected quarter – his co-star from the beloved sitcom Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah.
Sharad Sankla's Heartfelt Tribute to a Veteran
In a candid conversation on The Awaara Musaafir Show podcast, actor Sharad Sankla, famous for playing Abdul in TMKOC, expressed his deep admiration for Bedi's craft. He didn't just offer casual praise but delved into the reasons that make the seasoned actor truly exceptional. Interestingly, in TMKOC, Rakesh Bedi essays the role of Taarak Mehta's boss, creating a unique off-screen camaraderie between the two actors.
"Rakesh ji is a truly brilliant actor because he puts his heart and soul into every scene," Sharad Sankla stated. He emphasized that regardless of the role's size, Bedi approaches it with complete dedication. Sankla highlighted the palpable energy Bedi brings to the set, noting, "whenever he comes on set, you can feel the presence of a live performer."
He further illustrated his point by referencing Bedi's previous work, including a notable role as a Pakistani officer in another film, which was also portrayed with exceptional skill. Sankla's admiration extends to Bedi's entire generation of artistes.
The Hallmark of a Stage-Trained Performer
Sharad Sankla pointed out a key differentiator for actors like Rakesh Bedi. "What I want to say is that actors of his generation who are trained stage performers are all brilliant," he explained. He described their process: once they grasp a character's essence, they naturally absorb its mannerisms and enrich the role with their own creative inputs.
"Rakesh Bedi is a perfect example of that. There are many such actors, but since you mentioned Rakesh Bedi, he truly stands out," Sankla concluded, cementing his respect for his colleague's formidable talent.
Sankla's Long Association with Asit Kumarr Modi
During the same interview, Sharad Sankla also opened up about his enduring relationship with TMKOC producer Asit Kumarr Modi. He revealed a little-known fact about their professional journey. "We actually worked together on Neela Tele Films’ very first show," Sankla shared.
He humorously added that he considers himself Modi's lucky charm, as he delivered the first shot for the production house, a moment traditionally seen as an auspicious beginning. This, he believes, is why Modi has always considered him lucky. The opportunity in Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah came at a crucial time for Sankla, following a professional gap of nearly seven to eight years which he described as a phase of struggle.
The interview not only shed light on the mutual respect between contemporary actors but also celebrated the enduring legacy and discipline of veteran stage-trained performers like Rakesh Bedi, whose work in Dhurandhar continues to be a talking point.
