Deven Bhojani, a beloved figure in Indian cinema and television, is making waves with his evolving career as he transitions from his well-known comedic roles to more diverse characters. Renowned for his performances as the quirky Ghansu alongside Aamir Khan in the 1992 classic Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar and the humorous Dushyant in the popular TV series Sarabhai vs Sarabhai, Bhojani’s recent ventures are proving his versatility.
In a recent interview with Indian Express, Bhojani expressed his excitement about the opportunities presented by the rise of OTT platforms. His latest role in the critically acclaimed web series Taaza Khabar, now in its second season, marks a significant departure from his previous typecast image. “I’m extremely happy because I have always believed that I was a versatile actor, but I was waiting for the right opportunity,” he stated.
In Taaza Khabar, Bhojani portrays a complex character with emotional depth—a baker with a unique appearance, including red hair and a beard, who sells anda-pav (eggs and bread). “Season 1 made me extremely happy because it was a different kind of character,” he noted. The character’s layered personality allowed Bhojani to demonstrate a side of his acting that many had not seen.
Typecasting has been a hurdle for Bhojani throughout his career, often pigeonholed into comedic roles. “It becomes easier for makers, channels, and platforms to typecast an actor,” he acknowledged. However, with the expanding landscape of digital content, Bhojani is determined to break free from these constraints.
His recent projects, including the Gujarati film Udan Chhoo, which explores a middle-aged love story, have further showcased his range. “I’m playing a romantic lead. It’s doing incredibly well, and people are still flocking to theatres after three weeks,” he remarked with pride. This experience has reinforced his belief in his acting capabilities, saying, “Yeh bhi main kar let hoon yaar! (I can do this too!)”
Bhojani’s passion for growth as an artist is palpable. “I like to explore myself as an actor; I still don’t know what all I’m capable of,” he said, emphasising his commitment to learning and evolving. The positive feedback from audiences has only fueled his ambition.
As he embarks on the second season of Taaza Khabar, Bhojani promises to push his boundaries further. “I’m excited to see where this journey takes me,” he concluded. Taaza Khabar Season 2 is currently streaming on Disney+ Hotstar, inviting viewers to witness Bhojani’s remarkable transformation.
