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Mukesh Chhabra Says OTT Has Eased Casting Challenges
Mukesh Chhabra said directors still expect him to find unusual casting choices.
He said repeatedly delivering “something out of the box” can be tiring and overwhelming.
Chhabra said OTT platforms have created more opportunities for actors beyond established stars.
He cited Vijay Varma and Rasika Dugal as actors who benefited from audiences seeking relatable performers.
He said he will not accept a casting assignment without receiving the complete film or series script.
- Who
- Casting director Mukesh Chhabra.
- What
- He discussed the pressures of finding unusual performers, the opportunities created by OTT platforms, and his requirement to read full scripts before accepting casting work.
- Where
- On the sidelines of FICCI FRAMES 2026; the specific location was not stated.
- When
- During an interview at the recently concluded FICCI FRAMES 2026.
- Why
- He said OTT platforms have expanded opportunities for non-star actors, while full scripts help him understand the project and the actor required for each role.
Key facts
- Interviewee
- Mukesh Chhabra
- Event
- FICCI FRAMES 2026
- Main challenge
- Directors frequently ask for “something out of the box” in casting.
- Industry change
- OTT platforms have expanded opportunities for actors beyond established stars.
- Actors mentioned
- Vijay Varma and Rasika Dugal
- Casting requirement
- Chhabra said he needs the complete film or series script before accepting a job.
- Selected credits mentioned
- Bajrangi Bhaijan, Dangal, Scam 1992, Jawan, Dhurandhar, and Dhurandhar: The Revenge
Quotes
Mukesh Chhabra
Indian casting director interviewed by The Free Press Journal
“There is more scope for casting other actors also now. I think that's the reason that if you see so many actors who made it big, whether it's Vijay Varma or Rasika Dugal, all because people want to see real actors now, so that they can connect to them”
freepressjournal.in
“There is a constant demand from directors who keep telling me to get 'something out of the box'- now that's not possible each and every time! That's something which does get me tired and overwhelmed at times...but i still deliver”
freepressjournal.in
Sources
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