Chunky Panday thought Grihalaxmi was Ekta Kapoor's show, said, "Initially, I was uncertain if the role would suit me"

Chunky

Chunky Panday, renowned for his roles as romantic heroes and comic sidekicks, is now embracing a darker side with his portrayal of a ruthless don in the new web series Griha Laxmi. The actor, who has been part of the Bollywood industry for over four decades, reveals that taking on such a sinister role is a refreshing change for him. In an interview with HT, he opened up about his character, the show’s unexpected twists, and his long career journey.

When Chunky was first approached for Griha Laxmi, the title itself gave him a specific impression. He admits, "When they called me and told me they were making a show called Grihalaxmi, I thought it sounded like something Ekta Kapoor would make under the Balaji (Telefilms) banner." Initially, he was uncertain if the role would suit him. "I asked them what are you making and are you sure you want me in this? Will I fit?" he recalls. However, after receiving the show’s narration, his perspective shifted. "Then, they gave me a narration, and I really liked it," he says, confirming that Griha Laxmi was more complex and gritty than he initially thought.

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In this series, Chunky plays Karim Kazi, a character he likens to Keyser Soze, the infamous villain from The Usual Suspects. "He is a lot like Keyser Soze," Chunky says. "He is like a rumour as you only hear about him. You are convinced nobody can be like that." The show, however, doesn’t just feature his character's intensity; it also presents a world that is more akin to Breaking Bad than any traditional family drama. Chunky draws a comparison between Hina Khan’s character and Walter White from Breaking Bad, describing it as "a world they have created is very good."

Playing a villain for the first time in his career is an exciting challenge for Chunky. While he’s often played supporting roles or comedic characters, this role allows him to explore a completely different side of his acting capabilities. "For me, it was extra refreshing because I have a little Shaitaan hidden inside me. I think we all do. It's just we keep them quiet," he confides. "I had never played a full-blown don on screen. The other villains that I played were associated with a bigger villain. They were fixers or sons of bad guys. This time, I am the big bad." This opportunity to play the primary antagonist has been a new and invigorating experience for him.

Looking back at his four-decade-long Bollywood journey, Chunky reflects on the ups and downs of his career with a sense of acceptance. "I don’t regret anything in my life. I feel you should enjoy the journey. The fun is in this journey, this up-and-down roller coaster ride," he shares. He credits his ability to reinvent himself to his determination and proactivity. "I have been lucky that I have got these roles. But I have looked for these roles. I hung around people who were making films like that and I chased them when I found out they had characters that I wanted to play." He emphasizes the importance of making a lasting impression, adding, "The audience has to remember you because one day, we will perish. Only our work will remain."