Interview by – Shashi Salwani
Edited by – Robin Bhuyan
Written by – Nirjher Kumar Patel
Tanuj Virwani is a rising star in the Hindi film industry. Son of popular and veteran actress Rati Agnihotri, he has earned a lot of appreciation for his role in the sports drama series Inside Edge. He is currently enjoying the success of his new show Murshid, where he plays a cop, alongside verteran actors such as Kay Kay Menon and Zakir Hussain. In an exclusive interview with Enigmatic Horizon, he discusses his jourey, his script choices, the rise of OTT platforms and its impact on cinema, career
First of all, congratulations on Murshid. How was the experience?
I’m really enjoying the praise it’s been getting. I’m relieved that my portrayal of a cop, which is quite different from my previous roles, has been accepted. Plus, working with great, versatile actors like KK Menon and Zakir Hussain was an invaluable learning experience. Overall, I’m thrilled with the reception the show is receiving—not just for my performance, but for the show as a whole.
Speaking of KK Menon, how was that experience working alongside him? Tell us more.
It was incredible. Menon sir completely immersed himself in his character, to the point where it was hard to distinguish between him and Murshid Pathan (his character). I’ve admired him since I was a child, from his roles in Black Friday and Sarkar to his recent performances in Farzi and The Railway Men. He delivers consistently outstanding performances. Working alongside someone of his calibre pushes you to step up your game. I found myself paying more attention to my lines and performance when he was around. While it can be overwhelming, it’s also highly motivating. I’m grateful for the opportunity to have learned from him.
Was he strict on set?
No, not at all. He’s more reserved than strict. He brings a sense of calmness to the environment, almost like he’s in a constant zen mode. Despite the usual noise and bustle on set, he manages to bring a certain peace to the space, which is really refreshing.
This year, you also worked on Dharma Productions’ big-budget action film Yodha. How was that experience?
It’s been quite a journey for me, trying to make it in the industry. After auditioning for Dharma films for over a decade, I finally landed a role—without even having to audition! It felt like the stars had finally aligned. With big-budget projects, the scale is very different—the sets are grand, the scope is larger than life. But it’s important to stay grounded and remember why you started this journey. The directors, Sagar and Pushkar, were very clear about what they wanted from me, which made my job easier. Working with talented actors like Sidharth Malhotra and Raashi Khanna was an enjoyable experience. I didn’t have any scenes with Disha Patani, so I didn’t get to know her well.
What do you think is behind the recent rise in patriotic movies, like Holiday and Paltan? Many films are centered around RAW agents or army officers these days.
I don’t think there’s a specific reason for this trend. JP Dutta, for example, has always been focused on this genre. Patriotic films do well at the box office if they’re done right. In the 90s and early 2000s, there was a surge in jingoistic films, but that wouldn’t work today. A good example is the latest Tiger movie, where Salman Khan’s character saves the Prime Minister of Pakistan—a storyline that would’ve been unthinkable decades ago.
Your series Inside Edge had also received critical acclaim not only in India but internationally. What do you think contributed to its success?
I think it’s because there’s a lack of sports drama in the country. Very few films or web series tackle the subject. Inside Edge was well-researched, inspired by real-life incidents, and had an amazing cast. The show was released at the perfect time, which contributed to its success. It was a combination of many beautiful things falling into place.
Since you’ve worked extensively in OTT, how do you see its impact on cinema?
OTT platforms are definitely making an impact, but I don’t think they will lead to the closure of theatres. For movies to draw audiences out of their homes, the subject matter has to be compelling. Why would people leave their homes otherwise? Shows like Mirzapur and Inside Edge are better suited for OTT due to their longer format. However, theatres will always have a place, as we’ve seen with movies like Stree 2, which crossed ₹500 crore. Ultimately, a well-written, entertaining script will always find success.
Do you think “star power” is declining due to OTT platforms?
I think star power is declining more because of social media. Only a few stars, like Aamir Khan or Ranbir Kapoor, avoid social media, which preserves an air of mystery around them. Today, with everyone being so accessible, there’s less novelty. In the past, watching a movie by was an event. Now, with overexposure, especially due to social media, that excitement has diminished. A good example is the success of Jawan and Pathaan, where SRK returned after a four-year break. People were eager to see him. Spacing out projects and avoiding overexposure is crucial today.
What’s your take on artificial intelligence (AI) being used more in the industry, such as in voice acting?
Initially, I wasn’t too concerned, but with technology advancing so rapidly, it’s becoming unsettling. For example, Instagram now requires you to disclose if content is AI-generated. Creativity is a uniquely human endeavour, and there should be limitations in place. AI can’t replace human-driven creativity.
You must have definitely faced challenges early in your career. Can you tell us about that?
Challenges are part of every career, and mine is no different. Coming from a family where my mother was a successful actress, expectations were high. My first two films didn’t do well, which was a tough blow. In this industry, you’re only as good as your last project, and it’s highly competitive. But with hard work, the right opportunities, and the right scripts, I was able to bounce back.
With the rise of OTT, do you think the quality of content is compromised with more low-budget productions?
I don’t think quality is related to budget. You can create appealing content even on a low budget, as long as you have conviction and clarity of thought. That said, there is a growing trend where everyone wants to make a web series. It’s a challenge to keep an audience engaged for six to ten hours. Not everyone can do it. I see a lot of scripts that I reject because of their poor quality, and I often wonder who’s going to watch them.
There’s a rising trend in shows featuring violence and vulgarity, like Mirzapur. What’s your opinion on this?
There are scripts, like Paatal Lok, Mirzapur, and Sacred Games, that require a certain level of intensity. While the shows are great, sometimes it feels like certain scenes are added for shock value rather than to serve the story. I’ve become more conscious of this recently, and now I avoid unnecessary scenes unless they’re essential for the character or story. We have a responsibility to use these elements thoughtfully.
What’s your take on nepotism? Do you think it affects new actors trying to make a career?
Nepotism exists in every industry. The entertainment industry gets more attention because of its glamour. While familial connections can open doors, sustained success depends on talent and hard work. I was fortunate that my mother and have different surnames, so I was able to build my own identity as many don’t know that I am her son. Your success should be based on your own merits, not your background.
What advice do you have for aspiring actors?
I would say, you should always try to stand out. For example, I was born and raised in Mumbai, so I would fit characters who are from places like South Delhi or South Mumbai. Actors from rural areas should embrace their unique experiences and backgrounds rather than trying to fit in. Look at actors like Manoj Bajpayee or Nawazuddin Siddiqui—they came from rural arreas, and they didn’t conform or try to fit it, and instead brought their authentic selves to their roles. That authenticity became their strength. Aspiring actors should leverage their cultural heritage and personal experiences to stand out.
Lastly, what future projects are you excited about? And are there any directors or actors you’re looking forward to working with?
I have several projects lined up. I’m playing an ACP in a crime-based show produced by Applause Entertainment, alongside Rahul Dev. I’m also working on a film where I play a cable operator from Bhopal who works for the police in secret. It stars Zakir Hussain, Vijay Raaz, and Brijendra Kala. Additionally, I’ve done a rom com called Puppy Love with Tridha Choudhury and Nikki Tamboli, which should be out soon. I’ve also finished shooting for Rana Naidu Season 2, which will be released on Netflix. As for directors, I’d love to work with Anurag Kashyap, Rajkumar Hirani, and a few others!
