“Mrunal Thakur is as much the hero as I am”: Adivi Sesh redefines heroism in Dacoit

Adivi Sesh on working with Mrunal Thakur

With his upcoming pan-India project Dacoit: A Love Story, Adivi Sesh is adopting a novel approach in a field where narratives are frequently dominated by star power.

Known as a "two-hero film," Sesh's strategy is more than just a tribute to co-star Mrunal Thakur; it signifies his underlying conviction in cooperative storytelling, well-balanced plots, and the strength of shared on-screen persona.

Having co-written the film, Sesh views Dacoit not as a male-led venture, but as a tale of equals. At its heart, he says, the story is a love saga — and for him, a love story must embody partnership. “This film was never about one lead,” he explains. “It’s about two complex characters with their own arcs, struggles and redemptions. That kind of story demands equal emotional gravity from both actors.”

Sesh emphasises that he doesn’t look at scripts through the lens of gender or screen time. “What matters most is the integrity of the story. If it requires both leads to carry equal weight, then that’s the only way it should be approached,” he notes. “In Dacoit, there’s no question of one overshadowing the other — it’s not just my film, it’s our film.”

His admiration for Mrunal Thakur extends beyond her performance. “She brings a groundedness to the role that elevates the entire film. There’s a certain sincerity in her craft that matches how I approach my characters. It’s a rare kind of synergy,” he shares.

Sesh also touched upon their shared outsider status in the industry. “We’ve both had to prove ourselves, brick by brick. That shared journey creates an understanding that goes beyond dialogue. It makes working together that much more meaningful.”

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What drives their onscreen chemistry, however, is a mutual passion for the craft. “We’re both the kind of actors who’ll stay up rehearsing or redo takes until it feels right,” he says. “That kind of commitment is rare — and it shows. That’s why this isn’t just a hero-heroine film. It’s a two-hero film.”

As Dacoit readies for release, Sesh’s vision stands out — one that places authenticity above ego, and storytelling above stardom.