Mumbai: Actor Sunil Sharma, currently seen in the film Durandhar, represents a story of perseverance, adaptability and passion in the ever-evolving entertainment industry. Hailing from Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh, Sharma began his career in theatre, where he developed a strong foundation in acting by working with seasoned artists across cities like Mumbai and beyond. His early exposure at the prestigious Prithvi Theatre played a crucial role in shaping his artistic sensibilities.
Over the years, Sharma built a diverse portfolio spanning television, theatre and films. He gained recognition for his performances in mythological shows such as Shri Ganesh, where he portrayed Lord Shiva. His ability to embody spiritual and historical characters further saw him take on roles like Lord Ram and Lord Krishna in Bhagwat-based productions. Sharing screen space with noted actors such as Arun Govil, Puneet Issar and Bindu Dara Singh, Sharma carved a niche for himself in the mythological genre.
A major turning point in his career came with his work in the South Indian film industry, particularly in Telugu cinema. He collaborated with prominent names and featured in films like Akhanda, while also being associated with productions linked to stalwarts like Balakrishna. Sharma earned distinction by portraying legendary personalities such as N. T. Rama Rao, showcasing both his versatility and commitment to challenging roles. Among his most acclaimed performances is his portrayal of Buddha in Tathagat Buddha, which highlighted his depth and screen presence.
Despite his growing success, the COVID-19 pandemic brought unexpected challenges. With shoots coming to a halt, Sharma returned to Ujjain for a period of uncertainty. However, his determination remained unwavering. A significant opportunity arose when casting director Mukesh Chhabra offered him an audition for Dhurandhar. Initially, Sharma did not fit the role due to his clean-shaven look. Undeterred, he worked on his appearance, grew a beard and refined his mannerisms before reappearing for the audition. His persistence paid off, and he secured the role.
Interestingly, what began as a brief role of six to seven days extended into a much longer presence of nearly 35 days on set, with Sharma featuring in both parts of the film. His performance left a lasting impression on the filmmakers. Reflecting on his experience, Sharma speaks highly of co-actors like Akshaye Khanna and Ranveer Singh, praising their dedication, energy and humility. He also appreciated the collaborative environment on set, where every aspect of filmmaking was explained in detail, fostering a sense of belonging among cast and crew.
Having worked extensively in both North and South industries, Sharma notes key differences. He observes that South Indian cinema often emphasizes larger-than-life storytelling with disciplined execution, while also maintaining a grounded and respectful work culture. His interactions with industry stalwarts, including Rajinikanth and Amitabh Bachchan, have further influenced his perspective on humility and professionalism.
Looking ahead, Sharma is excited about upcoming projects, including a Telugu film titled Rose Garden, set against the backdrop of Kashmir. He also expresses a desire to work with acclaimed filmmakers like S. S. Rajamouli and Sandeep Reddy Vanga.
For aspiring actors, Sharma’s message is clear: success demands hard work, dedication and sacrifice. He encourages youngsters to remain honest to their craft and to live fully in the present, embracing every opportunity with passion and resilience.
