Danish Akhtar's Remarkable Journey: Eight Portrayals of Lord Hanuman
Actor Danish Akhtar has carved a distinctive niche in Indian television by embodying the revered deity Lord Hanuman an impressive eight times across various shows and theatrical productions. Reflecting on the origins of this unique career trajectory, Akhtar shares that his initial casting was largely influenced by his physical stature and commanding presence.
The Accidental Beginning in Siya Ke Ram
"Because of my height and personality, I was first chosen to play Hanuman in Siya Ke Ram," Akhtar recounts. "At that time, I didn't even understand acting properly." This debut role, despite his initial inexperience, set the stage for a series of subsequent portrayals that would define his professional identity.
Following his debut, Danish Akhtar went on to portray the divine character in several popular television series, including Jai Maa Vaishnodevi, Santoshi Maa, Karmadhikari Shanidev, and Kaakabhushundi Ramayan. He describes this ongoing journey as profoundly interesting and continuously enriching, with each project offering new insights and challenges.
Embracing the Role Without Complacency
Despite the repetitive nature of playing the same character multiple times, Akhtar emphasizes that he has never felt constrained or limited by the role. "I feel fortunate to have been offered the role... It gave me my identity. Whatever I am today is because of this," he states with evident gratitude.
However, the actor is careful to avoid complacency. He maintains a disciplined approach by seeking fresh guidance with each new project. "Every time I take it up, I ask the director to guide me as if it's new. I don't want assumptions—I want to learn each time," he explains, highlighting his commitment to growth and authenticity in his performances.
Aspiring for Diverse Roles in Cinema
Looking ahead, Danish Akhtar expresses a strong desire to explore different genres and expand his acting repertoire. "I want to play strong negative roles in films," he reveals, specifying that he would avoid such characters in mythological or historical contexts to maintain respect for the genres that established him.
From Wrestling Ring to Television Screen
Interestingly, acting was never part of Akhtar's original career plan. He began his professional life as a wrestler, training alongside renowned wrestler The Great Khali around 2011–12. "I wanted to pursue wrestling seriously and was even selected, but my visa didn't come through," he recalls.
This unforeseen obstacle led to an unexpected turn of events. "Then acting happened by chance and here I am today," Akhtar concludes, underscoring the serendipitous nature of his journey from the wrestling arena to the television studio, where he has become synonymous with one of Hinduism's most beloved deities.
