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Time of India
25-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Who is Mukesh Chhabra? From working as a background dancer to becoming Bollywood's top casting director - All you need to know
Mukesh Chhabra , one of the most well-known casting directors in Bollywood, is grabbing headlines for his appearance on the reality show 'The Traitors'. Hosted by Karan Johar , the show has added a new twist to his journey, from behind the camera to being in the spotlight himself. But before he became the man who shaped many acting careers, Mukesh had very humble beginnings. From dancing for Rs 50 to sharing the screen Mukesh once appeared on 'Indian Idol 15', where he shared a touching memory from his early days in the industry. During a fun chat with singer Mika Singh , he revealed just how far he had come. 'I worked as a background dancer for Mika Singh for just 50 rupees. He gave me my first opportunity, and I will always be grateful for that. It's surreal to see how far we've both come, and I'm thrilled to be sharing the screen with him again," Mukesh shared. This simple moment showed the strong bond between the two and reminded everyone of Mukesh's long journey from background dancer to a casting expert. Theatre roots and years of hard work As per IMDb, Mukesh spent two years training in acting at Shri Ram Centre. After that, he worked with the 'Theatre in Education' Company (TIE), which is linked with the National School of Drama in India. For nine years, he acted and taught there, learning the ins and outs of performing and storytelling. In 2008, he started his own company, Mukesh Chhabra Casting Company (MCCC). In just a few years, MCCC became one of the best casting companies in India and started working with clients from around the world. The man behind Bollywood's fresh faces With over 15 years in the film industry, Mukesh has cast for more than 300 films, over 100 web series, and countless TV ads. His most famous works include 'Bajrangi Bhaijaan' (2015), 'Dangal' (2016), 'Dil Bechara' (2020), 'Scam 1992' (2020), and 'Laal Singh Chaddha' (2022). Mukesh has helped launch many actors who are now household names. These include Rajkummar Rao , Sushant Singh Rajput , Mrunal Thakur, Pratik Gandhi, Sanya Malhotra, and Fatima Sana Shaikh. Mukesh has become the go-to person for for top directors like Rajkumar Hirani, Nitesh Tiwari, Imtiaz Ali, Kabir Khan , Aanand L. Rai, Anurag Kashyap, and Hansal Mehta. A new role on 'The Traitors' In a surprising move, Mukesh stepped into the spotlight by joining the reality show 'The Traitors'. Known for its dramatic twists and mind games, the show brought out a different side of him. However, in a recent episode, Mukesh was eliminated from the show. In an interview with ETimes after his exit, Mukesh opened up about what the show taught him. 'One of my biggest learnings from the show is that you really can't trust anyone—not even the people you eat, sit, or roam around with,' he said. 'You never know who's actually betraying you or who the real traitor is.' Mukesh Chhabra's story is one of hard work, talent, and never giving up. From being paid Rs 50 as a background dancer to helping shape the future of Bollywood, his journey is inspiring. The Traitors Review: Drama, Deception & Chaos Unfold
Time of India
24-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Mukesh Chhabra, known for casting roles in Gangs of Wasseypur & Dangal, says you can't trust anyone
Mukesh Chhabra , known for casting roles in films like Gangs of Wasseypur , Dangal , and Chhichhore, has been eliminated from the Indian reality show The Traitors . The show, hosted by Karan Johar , is known for its strategic twists and psychological turns. Mukesh, also the director of Dil Bechara , was recently voted out, making him one of the latest contestants to exit the competition. From behind the scenes to centre stage Mukesh Chhabra has worked behind the scenes for years in the Hindi film industry. As a casting director, he has helped discover new talent and build strong ensembles for major films. In 2020, he directed Dil Bechara, the last film of actor Sushant Singh Rajput. Stepping into a new role, Mukesh joined The Traitors, a reality show that requires players to detect betrayal and deception among themselves. His exit from the show offered a moment of reflection, both on-screen and off-screen. 'You really can't trust anyone' Speaking to ETimes after his elimination, Mukesh said the experience left a lasting impact. 'One of my biggest learnings from the show is that you really can't trust anyone—not even the people you eat, sit, or roam around with,' he said. 'You never know who's actually betraying you or who the real traitor is.' Live Events When asked if this applied to real life, Mukesh shared a personal story from the time he was directing Dil Bechara. 'In real life, I've felt betrayed many times,' he said. 'But one instance that really hurt was during Dil Bechara. I had entrusted one of my casting assistants to look after my company while I was away making the film. When I returned, I found he had taken away all my data and secretly opened his own casting company. I was shocked. I had literally groomed that child in front of me. It felt like a stab in the back.' Willing to return if called back Despite the emotional experience and early exit, Mukesh says he would be ready to return to The Traitors. '100%! Now I know how to play the game,' he said. His time on the show, while short, became a chance to confront past experiences of betrayal and reflect on trust and human behaviour. Whether in front of the camera or behind it, Mukesh Chhabra continues to navigate the stories and challenges that come with both cinema and real life.
Time of India
23-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
"I groomed him—then he backstabbed me, opened his own company, I was shocked": Mukesh Chhabra shares real-life betrayal after 'The Traitors' exit
Mukesh Chhabra is no stranger to drama—he's the man behind the scenes, shaping some of the most powerful on-screen performances in Hindi cinema. As one of Bollywood's most respected casting directors, Mukesh has been instrumental in launching fresh talent and curating unforgettable ensembles for films like Gangs of Wasseypur , Dangal , Chhichhore , and Tamasha . He also made his directorial debut with Dil Bechara , the last film of the late Sushant Singh Rajput , which continues to hold a special place in the hearts of audiences. But in a surprising turn, Mukesh recently stepped into the spotlight in a completely different way—as a contestant on The Traitors , the Indian reality show hosted by Karan Johar . Known for its psychological twists and high-stakes betrayals, the show eliminated Mukesh in a recent episode, making him the latest to exit the game. In an exclusive interview with ETimes following his elimination, Mukesh opened up about the emotional aftermath of the show and how it echoed some painful moments from his own life. 'One of my biggest learnings from the show is that you really can't trust anyone—not even the people you eat, sit, or roam around with,' he shared. 'You never know who's actually betraying you or who the real traitor is.' When asked if he had ever experienced betrayal in real life, Mukesh didn't hold back. 'In real life, I've felt betrayed many times,' he admitted. 'But one instance that really hurt was during 'Dil Bechara'. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Villa For Sale in Dubai Might Surprise You Villas in Dubai | Search ads Learn More Undo I had entrusted one of my casting assistants to look after my company while I was away making the film. When I returned, I found he had taken away all my data and secretly opened his own casting company. I was shocked. I had literally groomed that child in front of me. It felt like a stab in the back.' The pain in his voice is unmistakable—but so is his resilience. Even though he faced elimination early in the show, Mukesh says he'd return in a heartbeat if given a wildcard entry. '100%! Now I know how to play the game,' he said with a smile. Mukesh's experience on The Traitors wasn't just about gameplay—it became a mirror to deeper truths about trust, loyalty, and the unpredictability of human nature. And whether it's in cinema or real life, his journey continues to prove that even the most seasoned storytellers have chapters of pain, betrayal, and surprising lessons to share.
News18
15-06-2025
- Entertainment
- News18
Father's Day: Sanjana Sanghi Says Her Dad Spent Hours Helping Her Rehearse Lines
Last Updated: Sanjana Sanghi reflects on her father's impact on her life and career, his lessons of integrity, and their cherished Sunday walks in an exclusive interview with News18 Showsha. Not all superheroes wear capes—some wear spectacles, carry newspapers under their arm, and have the magical ability to make every problem in the world feel smaller. For Dil Bechara star Sanjana Sanghi, that superhero has always been her dad. This Father's Day (June 15, 2025), Sanjana got candid with News18 Showsha about the man who's quietly shaped her life, her values, and even her scenes. What's the most valuable lesson your father has ever taught you? The most valuable lesson my father ever taught me is the importance of integrity and authenticity above all else. He says 'no matter what path you choose never compromise who you are or the values you stand for.' In the film industry, where external pressures and perceptions can often sway you, this lesson has been my constant anchor. It's about being true to myself, to my craft, and to the stories I choose to tell. It reminds me to always lead with honesty and to never chase fleeting validation at the cost of my core beliefs. How has your relationship with your dad shaped who you are today — as a person and as an artist? My relationship with my dad has profoundly shaped every part of who I am today, both as a person and as an artist. He's been my constant anchor, instilling in me the values of integrity, resilience, and unwavering hard work. These aren't just words; they're the backbone of my character and my professional approach. As an artist, his emphasis on authenticity and staying grounded is invaluable in a world that can often feel superficial. He taught me to observe deeply, to empathise, and to never lose touch with my roots, which directly influences how I connect with and portray characters. His quiet belief in my unconventional path has given me the courage to chase my dreams fearlessly, always reminding me to seek depth and truth in everything I do. Did your dad ever visit you on set or help you rehearse lines? Oh, yes! My dad has visited me on set a few times, which is always incredibly special. He's not someone who seeks the limelight, so his visits are always about quietly observing and being there for me. It's truly comforting to see his familiar face amidst the controlled chaos of a film set; it's like a little piece of home coming to me. As for helping me rehearse lines, he's definitely done that especially during my early days! He might not be an actor, but he has an amazing memory and a keen ear. We'd sit for hours, and he'd patiently read out the other characters' dialogues. Those sessions were invaluable, not just for the lines themselves, but for the quiet support and focus he offered. He's always been my silent partner in preparation. Is there a role you've done that made your father particularly proud or emotional? While my father is incredibly supportive and proud of all my work, there's definitely one role that made him particularly emotional and, I believe, deeply proud playing Kizie Basu in Dil Bechara. That film, with its sensitive theme and profound message, resonated with him on a very deep level. I remember after he watched it, he didn't say much at first. Later, he told me how deeply moved he was by the story and how I had brought Kizie to life. Seeing him so affected, knowing he connected with my portrayal and the film's message, was one of the most validating and heartwarming moments of my career. His quiet pride meant the world. What's your favourite memory of spending time with your father when you were little? My absolute favourite memory of spending time with my father when I was little has to be our Sunday morning 'thought walks." Growing up, almost every Sunday, my dad and I would go for a long walk in our neighbourhood, rain or shine. It wasn't just about the exercise; it was our special time to talk about everything and anything like my dreams, my fears, what I was learning in school, or just random observations about life. Those walks were filled with his quiet wisdom and my endless questions. He'd offer perspective, listen without judgment, and somehow always know how to make me feel understood and inspired. In today's busy world, that uninterrupted, simple quality time, just walking and talking, feels incredibly precious and something I'd give anything to relive. First Published:
Time of India
15-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Sanjana Sanghi says her father silently shaped her acting career: 'He's been my constant anchor...'
On Father's Day 2025, Sanjana Sanghi shared how her father quietly supported her acting career by visiting sets and helping rehearse lines. Despite not being an actor, his memory and patience made him her silent partner. Sanjana's journey began as a child artist, leading to her breakthrough in 'Dil Bechara'. Sanjana Sanghi , known for her role in Dil Bechara , recently shared that her dad has always been her hero. On Father's Day 2025, she opened up about how he has quietly influenced her life, values, and even her acting. Comfort Amid the Chaos In an interview with News18 , Sanjana shared that her father has visited her on set several times, which she finds incredibly special. Although he prefers to stay out of the limelight, his presence provides her with comfort amid the hectic environment of a film shoot, making her feel as though a piece of home is with her. She also revealed that during her early days, her father helped her rehearse her lines. "He's been my constant anchor", she said. A Silent Partner in Preparation The actress further shared that despite not being an actor himself, her father has an excellent memory and a keen ear, often spending hours reading other characters' dialogues with her. These sessions were invaluable, offering not only help with the lines but also quiet support and focus—making him her silent partner in preparation. Sanjana Sanghi's Acting Journey Sanjana Sanghi began her career as a child artist with a role in Imtiaz Ali 's Rockstar . She gained recognition through supporting roles in films like Hindi Medium and Fukrey Returns . Her breakthrough came with the lead role in Dil Bechara , a Bollywood adaptation of The Fault in Our Stars , which earned her critical acclaim. Since then, she has appeared in the action drama Rashtra Kavach Om and the travel-themed film Dhak Dhak .
