Sharad Malhotra: Vidrohi will always be special to me

Actor Sharad Malhotra was honored by Home Minister Mr. Amit Shah, Education Minister Mr. Dharmendra Pradhan & Information & Broadcasting Minister Mr. Anurag Thakur for his portrayal of Bakshi Jagabandhu in the series ‘Vidrohi’. The show will always be an unforgettable experience for him, says the actor.

“I feel lucky and blessed. These two words always come to my mind. I have never, in the last 16-17 years, of my experience as an actor witnessed a show getting so much love, recognition, or being felicitated especially after its completion. It’s not common to stand in front of the home minister, receiving love and accolades.

The actor adds that many had advised him against taking up the show. “I was told to give it a second thought because the production house was new, the timing was not great, it was an early slot for a big-budget show. A lot of people were not in the favour of me doing this show. But for me, it’s always all my decision that I go by in the end. If I connect with the character and the people I have to work with, I give no second thoughts. Today, when I am reaping the benefits, receiving awards, appreciation accolades, and so much love, people are telling me, ‘Wow thank heavens that you did that role.’ (Smiles) I feel that it’s that inner voice that one should listen to. All of us have that voice that tells us if we should do something or not. I always listen to that voice, weigh the pros and cons and then freeze on something. “

He adds, “I will always be grateful to my makers for giving me this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity when I could step into the shoes of the Legendary Baxi Jagabandhu.”

Vidrohi is based in the pre-independence British Era. It shows the life journey of Odia freedom fighter Bakshi Jagabandhu and the story unfolds against the backdrop of the Paika Rebellion. The story also talks about Bakshi’s marriage to Radhamani and their struggles together.