Mumbai: Sony SAB is set to launch its upcoming mythological drama Hastinapur Ke Veer, offering a fresh perspective on the early lives of the Pandavs and Kauravas from the epic Mahabharata. Adding depth to the narrative is Chandan Anand, who essays the complex character of Shakuni.
The show explores the formative years of Hastinapur’s royal families, focusing on relationships, loyalties, and the shaping of destinies long before the great war. Within this backdrop, Shakuni emerges as a quietly influential figure whose intelligence and strategic thinking subtly steer the course of events.
Chandan Anand portrays Shakuni as a deeply observant and calculated personality—one who understands that influence often outweighs brute strength. Rather than instigating conflict outright, his character builds on existing emotions, particularly nurturing Duryodhana’s sense of entitlement and perception of differences, thereby shaping decisions from behind the scenes.
Sharing his experience, Anand said the role’s intrigue lies in its restraint. “What stood out to me was not what Shakuni says, but what he doesn’t. His power is quiet—he relies on observation and timing rather than force. Around the children, he appears like a warm, indulgent elder, but there’s always a deeper intent beneath that. Balancing these layers has been both challenging and fascinating,” he noted.
With its focus on values, upbringing, and the interpersonal dynamics that defined legendary characters, Hastinapur Ke Veer promises an engaging retelling of a timeless epic. The show is expected to bring a nuanced portrayal of familiar figures, blending mythology with fresh storytelling.
Hastinapur Ke Veer will premiere soon on Sony SAB.
