Paramvir Singh Cheema talks about Border 2, outsider struggles and industry realities; says, 'Working more than 12 hours isn’t sustainable - Exclusive interview

Paramvir Singh Cheema stars in Border 2

• Paramvir Singh Cheema on breaking typecasting and outsider challenges
• He advocates for fair working hours and valuing craft over social media metrics
• Upcoming projects include Pitt Siyapa and Amazon Prime's The Pyramid Scheme

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Paramvir Singh Cheema has steadily built his reputation through layered performances across OTT and cinema, from the acclaimed Tabbar to Chamak, Black Warrant, and now the ensemble spectacle Border 2. Often labelled a “Punjabi actor,” Paramvir has consciously pushed against typecasting while facing the realities of being an industry outsider.

In this candid conversation with MoneyControl, he reflects on the breakthrough that changed his career trajectory, the lessons learned from sharing screen space with major stars, and the evolving dynamics of Bollywood’s content-driven era. From talking about fair working hours to his upcoming projects, Param speaks with honesty, humour, and a grounded understanding of an industry in transition.

The breakthrough that changed everything

For Paramvir Singh Cheema, the defining shift came with Tabbar. “Tabbar was a turning point in my life because I was not getting work before that… everybody noticed me and I got the breakthrough performance of 2021,” he says.

The series opened doors but also boxed him into a perception he has since tried to challenge. Projects like Chamak and Black Warrant reinforced his image as a regional actor, until later performances proved his linguistic and stylistic versatility. “When Sapne vs Everyone released, people were shocked, 'Okay, Param is good in Hindi also…' and after Border, people are like, 'He can speak Haryanvi also'.”

Navigating identity beyond labels

Paramvir remains deeply conscious of authenticity while portraying regional characters. “When I portray someone from Punjab, the depth is natural… but there’s a fear also. People start saying 'Param Punjabi'. I’m a trained actor… not just a Punjabi trained actor.”

He acknowledges that representation matters but hopes filmmakers see him as more than a single identity.

Taking the leap into Border 2

Initially hesitant about joining a large ensemble, Paramvir worried about being overshadowed. “I told Anurag sir… you have a lot of stars and I am not a star. But I want to become a star. Please don’t waste me.”

Reassured by the director’s faith, he embraced the challenge. The moment that stayed with him most came towards the end of the filming when the director told him, “Waste to nahi kiya na?”

Lessons from sharing screen space with stars

For Paramvir, working alongside Sunny Deol, Varun Dhawan, and Diljit Dosanjh proved deeply educational. He particularly highlights Varun Dhawan’s professionalism. “I learned how to stay humble and grounded… he comes on set on time, sits with the director, doesn’t go to the vanity after every shot,” Param revealed.

What began as an intimidating experience soon turned collaborative. “After two days the ice broke… this guy is absolutely chill. No attitude, nothing.”

Craft across OTT and cinema

Despite shifting mediums, Param insists his acting process remains consistent. “Preparation is always the same… the craft remains the same.”

However, cinema required him to slightly adjust his performance scale. “They used to say, do it a little higher… because you are too natural from series.”

Missed opportunities without regret

While he nearly landed a role in Amar Singh Chamkila, he holds no regrets. “Whatever decisions I have taken… I always say thank you, it didn’t happen.” Still, he hopes to collaborate with director Imtiaz Ali someday, admiring his emotionally driven storytelling and poetic sensibility.

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Outsider realities and content-driven change

Describing himself as an outsider who built his audience through OTT, Paramvir Singh Cheema believes industry shifts are finally benefiting newcomers. “I’m glad people prefer content over stars… that’s when we’ll get a chance.”

He credits post-pandemic viewing habits for making audiences more discerning and receptive to fresh talent.

The need for fair working conditions

One of his strongest views centres on labour practices. “Working hours should be fair… sometimes shoots go 14–15 hours without a break… crew is always hungry.” He recalls extreme schedules, including shooting for 18 hours after minimal sleep, calling such practices unsustainable. “If an actor is working more than 12 hours, it is very difficult to emote… overworking has been glorified a lot.”

Also Read: Border 2 Movie Review: This sequel rests on Sunny Deol’s authority and Diljit Dosanjh’s ease

Industry changes he wishes to see

Paramvir advocates for valuing craft over social media metrics. “Acting is acting… it should not come from followers on Instagram.” He also stresses respecting professional boundaries on set and paying writers better, emphasising that strong storytelling is the backbone of cinema.

What’s next?

Looking ahead, Paramvir has multiple projects lined up, including his first Punjabi film Pitt Siyapa alongside Sonam Bajwa and an upcoming Amazon Prime series titled The Pyramid Scheme.