Rajeev Khandelwal is back to films after a long time with ‘Bloody Daddy’. The film is garnering some great responses, and it wouldn’t be wrong to say that he has caught onto a killer of a character. With reports suggesting that director Ali Abbas Zafar wants to turn this film into a universe, it seems Khandelwal might be getting a lot more to show off in the forthcoming films.

Talking to Prateek Sur, Rajeev Khandelwal opens up about why he said yes to ‘Bloody Daddy’, his constant jump between TV and films, his hunger for good projects, playing grey-shaded characters, and lots more. Excerpts:

What is the reason behind saying yes to ‘Bloody Daddy’?

I had in fact said no to Ali when he first approached me. I wasn’t sure whether I would be comfortable playing this character and pulling it off convincingly. I thought there wasn’t enough for me to do. But Ali patiently convinced me and told me that he would take care of all my apprehensions and present a character that would surprise people and even me. And he was true to his words. The appreciation coming my way is a testimony to it. The character I played in the film challenged me as an actor, and I could push my boundaries and discover new sides of mine as an actor.

As Ali Abbas Zafar said, ‘Bloody Daddy’ is made in such a way, that it can be taken forward and made into a Universe…. Will you be part of this universe? What?is your take on it?

Ali Abbas Zafar has indeed conceptualised ‘Bloody Daddy’ in a way that it can be expanded into a universe. As an actor, I'm always open to exciting opportunities and exploring different dimensions within a story. If the universe of ‘Bloody Daddy’ presents interesting narratives and character arcs, I would definitely consider being a part of it. But as of today, it’s a very hypothetical question. So, let’s see how it pans out.

Like how you were in the law and order, yet you were defying it as well. Did you enjoy playing the grey shade in ‘Bloody Daddy’?

Playing a grey shade in ‘Bloody Daddy’ was an exhilarating experience for me. It allowed me to delve into the complexities of a character who exists in a morally ambiguous space. Exploring the dualities and contradictions within the character's personality was a challenge that I thoroughly enjoyed. It's always intriguing to portray characters that defy conventional notions of right and wrong.

How was your experience working with Ali Abbas Zafar?

To begin with Ali is a very fine human being besides being a talented director. Working with him was a fantastic experience. He is a director with a clear vision and an innate understanding of storytelling. His approach to filmmaking is innovative and he creates a collaborative environment on set. I found his passion and commitment to the project contagious, which further motivated me as an actor. It was a pleasure to collaborate with him on ‘Bloody Daddy’. Let me also add that producer Himanshu Mehra and his team made this entire journey very smooth and memorable.

Shifting back and forth from TV to series to films, what is the one thing that has been the same for you?

The one thing that has remained constant for me throughout my career, whether it’s in TV, series, hosting or films, is my hunger for work that challenges me and one that I can be proud of. The other constant has been my approach towards my work. I have never let the so-called ‘ways and norms’ of the industry influence my decision-making. My instincts are what I follow. I have always believed mediums are for the audience. A true actor for me would be someone who’s accepted across all mediums.

Any upcoming projects you have in the pipeline?

My next project is a series with Dharmatic Entertainment. You will hear about it soon.