Stepping into the shoes of one of India’s most hated criminals is not a job any actor would want to do. But about Lalit Prabhakarto explain Ajmal Kasab in the upcoming film ‘Prahaar’ was more than just another role. When Rajkummar Rao hires a special prosecutor Ujjwal NikamLalit takes on the terrifying role of playing the face behind the darkest chapter in Indian history. For the actors, it was an opportunity to challenge themselves, push their boundaries, and become part of a story that retold the reality of the 26/11 attacks in Mumbai.In an exclusive interview with ETimes, Lalit spoke about getting involved, understanding Kasab’s feelings, reliving the pain, and why he believes this is one of the most important people in his career.
How Lalit Prabhakar took on the role of Ajmal Kasab
“I was invited to audition, and I went. We have to appreciate people who always look for different actors. Those who made me behind my character, who saw me playing Ajmal Kasab, should be appreciated because they believed that I could, and that’s how this opportunity came to me. ” he said.When asked about the choices he made as an actor, Lalit shared, “The choices I make as an actor have also led me to this point. I have been trying to do films that do not keep my image the same. I want the audience to see different versions of me. I deliberately choose films that break my fixed image and maybe surprise or even confuse, many projects of “Shandi Gopal” as I did, some audience of Shandi Gopal. which showed me a very different side of me. Audiences have always supported me and are looking forward to seeing me in different roles. So, I agreed to this because I knew the audience would agree too. “When Lalit was asked it was difficult to play a character who is so hated in India. He agreed and explained, “It was difficult, a very difficult role, for various reasons. First of all, I had to understand Kasab’s thoughts to be him on screen and act according to what I did. I had to catch the nuances of his language, which is different from ours, and change his body language. But more than that, I wanted to do something that even I had never thought of doing. I have always wanted to see myself in roles that have never been imagined for me. I like to push my limits.”
Lalit says the story of the film was also important to convince him yes.
“Before I start any work, I always see what the film is trying to say and what it wants to convey. This film is about the truth. It is based on real events, and the truth is not distorted. Because of that, I don’t feel bad doing it.“My character is very important in this film. Without him, the main story remains incomplete and cannot be told. It is a very important role, and I feel that taking on a difficult role is a big thing.”
I don’t think I can forget 26/11 says Lalit Prabhakar
Recalling where he was the night of the Mumbai attacks, Lalit says the memory remains as vivid as ever.“I was in Mumbai. I was preparing for a play. Even today, the memories of that terrible night have not gone away. Obviously, it’s a scar. I don’t think I can forget what happened. When we go to that place, we still think about how it happened. How could it happen? And how big and amazing the event was.”The actor says that every visit to the site of the attack still brings back painful memories.“I’ve been through CST many times, but every time you go to that place, that thought comes into your mind—how it happened and why it happened. “And because of that, I have a lot of respect for all of our police officers, our task force, and the system. The way they do everything and solve the case… the more I learn through this movie, the more I admire them. “For Lalit Prabhakar, portraying Ajmal Kasab was not glorifying criminals. Instead, it was about telling a bigger story – one that recounts one of the worst episodes in India’s history and pays tribute to the bravery of those who fought against it. The actor believes that taking on difficult, unconventional characters is what makes him grow, and Kasab has undoubtedly been one of the most challenging and iconic roles of his career.