Karanvir Sharma talks about working with Kajol in The Trial season 2: She makes sure co-actors feel at ease... | Exclusive

Karanvir Malhotra talks about his role in The Trail season 2

In an exclusive interview with Moneycontrol, actor Karanvir Sharma discussed playing the role of Param Manjal, a character who infuses the show with new life, as The Trial: Season 2 approaches its release.

Karanvir, who is well-known for his roles in theatre, films, television, and OTT shows, talked about how he was cast by chance, what it was like to work with Kajol, and how director Umesh Bist's vision influenced his performance.

In this candid conversation, he also discussed the opportunities that OTT platforms present for actors, the particular requirements of each medium, and the enduring effects of celebrities like Anil Kapoor and Amitabh Bachchan.

Excerpts from the Exclusive interview:

Question: What intrigued you the most when you first heard about playing Param Manjal?

Karanvir: More than being intrigued. I’d like to call it divine intervention. This project came to me at a time when I really needed the job. Something’s that refreshing to portray and challenging at the same time. I feel as actors , most land the part being there at the right place and the right time. Call it serendipity. I, still remember the first meeting with the Director of ‘ The Trial S2’. ( Umesh Bisht).

I was told that to go prepared a preferably in character. Now my character is a loud in attributes in comparison to rest of the cast. So, I tried a loud attire and a bit OTT in the first meeting. And once I was done from the meeting. I felt what a blunder it was to try to put on an act. I really thought I could maybe not have the best first impression.

But Umesh sir has eye for details and something clicked. That was a relief.

As destiny would have it. My manifestation for working with a profound director eventually came true.

Question: How was it working alongside Kajol, especially given the intense conflicts between your characters?

Karanvir: On the first day, it was a casual scene with all the characters present, which helped ease me in. Unfortunately, I didn’t get a chance to read with Kajol beforehand due to scheduling. Everyone was juggling projects, and managing time was tough. Initially, I was hesitant since others had already worked with her in season one. But by the second day, I was comfortable, thanks to Kajol. She makes sure co-actors feel at ease and never imposes how one should act. She’s a director’s actor, follows instructions, and never interferes in anyone else’s performance. That’s the best part about her.

Question: How did director Umesh Bist’s vision help you shape Param Manjal?

Karanvir: The director told me that some characters already had their arcs set in season one, but with new characters like Param, I had room to carve a niche. He gave me the liberty to experiment. He asked me not to watch The Good Wife, the original source, since Param was meant to be a 'desi' adaptation, not an Americanised one. In The Good Wife, my character is inspired by Derek Bond, but ours had to be reshaped for Indian sensibilities.

Question: OTT platforms have changed the way stories are told. How do you see this shaping opportunities for actors?

Karanvir: OTT doesn’t care about stardom, only the strength of characters and storytelling. Whether you’re a star or newcomer, you must convince audiences you are the character. If the content is good, people will watch; otherwise, with a click, they’ll switch. The longer format also allows actors to build arcs and show range. For struggling actors, it’s a big opportunity because talent truly shines here.

Question: You’ve worked in films, TV, and OTT. Which medium do you value the most?

Karanvir: Every medium has its charm. Theatre is the actor’s true medium because it’s raw and immediate, though hard to sustain financially. Films and OTT rely heavily on direction and editing, while TV is a writer’s medium. Personally, I’d love to return to theatre one day, even though it’s tough. Ultimately, what matters is whether you’ve delivered a believable performance that connects with people.

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Question: Other than Sunil Shetty and Kajol, which stars have left a lasting impression on you?

Karanvir: I’ve worked with Anil Kapoor and even did an ad film with Amitabh Bachchan early in my career. Despite not being in the best of health, Amitji was the first on set. His punctuality, discipline, and energy were inspiring.

I still remember watching him transform instantly when the camera rolled. One take, perfect delivery — even for an ad. That moment showed me what it means to be a true legend.