Mumbai: Television actor Ashiesh Chaturvedi, now with sizable work in microdramas and OTT, believes the entertainment industry is currently witnessing one of its most transformative phases. Known for his roles in popular television serials such as Bharat Ka Veer Yoddha – Maharana Pratap, Molkki 2, Suhaagan, and Mounraagam – Gungunati Khamoshi, Chaturvedi has successfully navigated the shift from traditional television to the fast-growing world of micro-dramas and vertical storytelling.
Reflecting on his journey, Chaturvedi says the modern era has opened doors that were unimaginable a decade ago. “Today, actors have the opportunity to perform across formats—television, long-format web series, and now short-form vertical series. These three-day micro-dramas allow us to experiment with positive, negative, and even supporting roles back-to-back. It’s a great time to be an actor,” he shares.
Chaturvedi has been particularly active in short-form content, including projects such as Mafia of Mirzapur, Asli Badshah, Power Ka Game, Lapata Shehzada, Lucky Sharma Ji, and Yugpurush. On audio and digital platforms like Pocket FM, he featured in Rewind Wala Love, further expanding his presence in emerging storytelling spaces. His upcoming project Tech Master is expected to add another dimension to his portfolio.
Discussing his affinity for intense, grey-shaded characters, Chaturvedi notes that audiences have responded strongly to his negative roles. “The hits are crossing 100 million views. Grey shades have a strong connect, especially with Uttar Pradesh audiences. The socio-political realities of the region are layered, and these characters reflect that complexity,” he explains. His project Mafia of Mirzapur particularly resonates with him. Being from Uttar Pradesh, he emphasizes the importance of authenticity. “The dialect has to be perfect. I worked hard on it and managed to ace it to a great extent. That authenticity is what appeals to the U.P. folk. I’m hopeful that Season 2 is also on the cards.”
According to Chaturvedi, the entertainment landscape has evolved dramatically—from films and cinema halls to daily television soaps, followed by OTT web series with longer formats and richer storylines. Now, with shrinking attention spans and smartphone dominance, micro-dramas have emerged as a powerful format. “Longer web series can have 40 episodes of two minutes each, totaling around 90 minutes. Sometimes the actor isn’t the central character, but that’s what makes it interesting. You learn how to create impact differently,” he says.
He believes micro-dramas are “crisp, cut-to-cut dramas” that offer actors greater space for involvement and layered perspectives. “They push you out of your comfort zone. There’s minimal scope for retakes, so you have to come prepared. It gives you room to be imaginative and instinctive—almost to ask yourself how you would react if you were the character.”
Ashiesh also highlights how the rise of smartphone-based vertical platforms has benefited not just actors but the entire ecosystem—producers, directors, technicians, and allied sectors. “These new-age verticals are giving everyone a much-needed push, both financially and creatively. They’re also helping us stay connected to our roots, especially in rural markets.”
Looking ahead, he reveals that he will soon be seen in a major show addressing the social issue of female foeticide, set to air on a prominent platform. “It’s an important subject, and I’m glad to be part of something meaningful,” he says.
For aspiring actors, Chaturvedi offers practical advice: “Come prepared and aim to be the best. Study literature deeply and understand your craft. There’s a lot of work out there, but patience and the right approach are key.”
In an industry defined by rapid change, Ashiesh Chaturvedi stands as an example of adaptability—embracing new formats, experimenting with complex roles, and evolving with the times.
