As artistes it’s in our hands to not get stereotyped: ‘Sacred Games’ star Jitendra Joshi

Marathi actor Jitendra Joshi says his performance as constable Katekar in "Sacred Games" gave his career a much-needed push, changing his life from that of a struggling artiste to a performer who aims to build a versatile profile.

Joshi’s stint as much-loved loyal cop Katekar, alongside Saif Ali Khan's inspector Sartaj Singh, in season one of Netflix Original series earned him instant recognition from masses as well as industry insiders.

But it took him a while to board his next big project as actor did t want to give in to fame by doing similar kind of roles.

"In initial days, struggle was to just run house. Even today, aim is to give a good life to my family, but at same time I want to do good work. I would say from struggling to run house to striving for good work, I’ve come a long way. I want to come up with something new every time I appear on screen," actor told PTI in an interview.

Joshi, 42, said he w focuses most of his energies on self-analysis, which in return helps him in polishing his acting skills.

"w I struggle with self-doubt. I always have this hesitation before getting into mind of character, that will I be able to pull it off or t. But I believe self-doubt and self-analysis play important role in an artiste’s life. Both se feelings give us sense of right and wrong," he ded.

actor said he was offered many roles similar to Katekar post success of Anurag Kashyap-Vikramitya Motwane-directed "Sacred Games", but he decided to say to projects as he didn’t want to get pigeonholed.

"I believe, as an artiste, it is in our hands to give or t give makers a choice to stereo us. With every project, I want to do something that challenges me and surprises audience. Makers should also feel I have more to myself as an actor. I waited for long after ‘Sacred Games’ to get right kind of role."

His wait ended with ar Netflix India Original series "Betaal", which gave him a chance to give a complete makeover to his affable im as Katekar.

Produced by Shah Rukh Khan’s Red Chillies Entertainment, show is written and directed by Patrick Graham, who previously helmed horror series "Ghoul".

Nikhil Mahajan is also serving as co-director, while Blumhouse Television and SK Global Entertainment are attached as executive producers.

"I fell in love with character of Mudhalvan during narration. Katekar was most loved character and this will be most hated character. In this show, people will hate me and I will love it," he ded.

zombie-horror series also features Viineet Kumar, Aahana Kumra, Suchitra Pillai, Jatin Goswami and Siddharth Men.

Joshi said what makes "Betaal" stand apart is its treatment of female characters.

"Till w, in most of horror shows or films in India, way women are portrayed is mostly erotic or sexy. But ‘Betaal’ is different in that sense. women in this show are very strong. y are all fighters. I found this really interesting. This kind of show has t been me in India."

actor said he is erly awaiting May 24 premiere of "Betaal" and hopes his performance in series les him to more interesting work.

"I don’t have any new projects with me right w. I h finished a Marathi movie with Drishyam Films but have clue when will it release. Hope that ‘Betaal’ does well and I get more work," he said.

Im credit: Instagram/@jitendrajoshi27