The horror-comedy sequel 'Stree 2' has taken the box office by storm, earning accolades not just for its intriguing storyline but also for its ensemble cast. One of the standout characters in the movie is Sarkata, played by Sunil Kumar. But who exactly is this towering actor who made such a memorable impact in the film? Here’s a deep dive into the life and career of Sunil Kumar, the man behind Sarkata.
In 'Stree 2', Sarkata is a mysterious and menacing figure whose presence adds an extra layer of horror to the movie. Standing at an impressive 7 feet 6 inches, Sunil Kumar was the perfect choice for this role, bringing a physicality that few others could match. His towering height and imposing stature made Sarkata a character that audiences would not easily forget.
Director Amar Kaushik, in an interview, mentioned how the casting team specifically sought someone of Kumar's height to bring authenticity and a sense of fear to the character. “The casting team found him. We wanted a man with such a height and he fit the bill,” said Kaushik.
Who is Sunil Kumar
Sunil Kumar is not just a one-time actor; he is a man of many talents. Born and raised in Jammu, Kumar is often referred to as “The Great Khali of Jammu,” a nickname that alludes to the famous Indian wrestler, The Great Khali, who also stands at an extraordinary height. However, Kumar's life extends far beyond his work in the film industry.
Kumar serves as a constable in the Jammu and Kashmir Police, where his towering presence is likely as effective in maintaining law and order as it is in his film roles. His role in the police force speaks volumes about his dedication and service to his community, which he balances alongside his acting career.
Also Read: Stree 2 box office collection day 5: Rajkummar Rao starrer earns Rs 220 crore total, becomes Shraddha Kapoor's highest-grossing movie
A Man of Many Talents
In addition to his work in the police force and film industry, Kumar is also an avid wrestler. His interest in wrestling began at a young age and he has competed in various local competitions. His involvement in wrestling has contributed to his physicality, which he effectively channels into his roles on screen.
Kumar’s journey into acting started when a local casting director noticed him at a wrestling event. His unique height and build made him a perfect fit for roles that required a physically imposing presence. From there, he transitioned into acting, taking on roles that highlighted his physical attributes.
The character of Sarkata in 'Stree 2' required more than just physical presence; it demanded a performance that could convey terror without much dialogue. To achieve this, the film's team used a combination of Sunil Kumar's body shots and CGI. Director Amar Kaushik explained that they used Kumar’s body for the physical scenes, while the face of Sarkata was generated through CGI to give it an otherworldly appearance.
This blending of live-action and CGI was instrumental in bringing Sarkata to life, making him one of the most memorable characters in 'Stree 2'. The decision to use CGI for the face while keeping Kumar’s physicality intact allowed the character to be both terrifying and believable.
'Stree 2' has proven to be a massive hit at the box office, with early estimates suggesting it has already crossed ₹190 crore in just six days. The movie, which stars Shraddha Kapoor and Rajkummar Rao, has been lauded for its mix of humor and horror, a combination that has resonated well with audiences.
The film's success has also shone a spotlight on its cast, particularly on actors like Sunil Kumar who have brought their characters to life in unique ways. Sarkata, despite being a relatively minor character, has captured the imagination of viewers, thanks in large part to Kumar’s performance.
While Sunil Kumar’s portrayal of Sarkata has earned him recognition, it’s important to note that 'Stree 2' also continues the rise of its lead actress, Shraddha Kapoor. Kapoor, who now enjoys a massive fan base, had a difficult start in her career with her first two films, 'Teen Patti' and 'Luv Ka The End', which did not perform well at the box office.
It was her role in 'Aashiqui 2' that truly established her as a leading actress in Bollywood. This film was a turning point for Kapoor, making her a household name and paving the way for future successes. In a recent interview, Kapoor reflected on the struggles she faced early in her career, recalling how she had to give numerous auditions before landing her breakout role.
With 'Stree 2' doing exceptionally well at the box office, Sunil Kumar’s future in the film industry looks promising. His unique physical attributes and his ability to bring characters like Sarkata to life make him a valuable asset in Bollywood, particularly for roles that require a larger-than-life presence.
Given his background as a police constable and wrestler, it will be interesting to see the types of roles Kumar takes on in the future. Whether he continues to play terrifying characters or explores new genres, one thing is certain: Sunil Kumar is a name we will be hearing more of in the coming years.
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