Mahir Pandhi is currently captivating audiences with his compelling performance as Digvijay, also known as DJ, in the popular television show Vanshaj. The show, which has been enjoying a successful run on Sony Sab, keeps viewers on the edge of their seats with its intricate and gripping storyline filled with unexpected twists and turns.
DJ, or Digvijay, is portrayed as a character who revels in power and is deeply entrenched in traditional values. He firmly believes that only a man can inherit a family business, setting the stage for a fierce rivalry with Yuvika, played by Anjali Tatrari. In an exclusive interview with DNA, Mahir opened up about his role as the antagonist in the show and discussed its parallels with Ranbir Kapoor’s character, Ranvijay, in the film Animal.
Addressing the similarities between Animal’s Ranbir Kapoor and Vanshaj’s Digvijay, Mahir Pandhi noted, “The similarities are not between the two characters or the two projects, but the similarities are a reminder that this male-dominated thinking still exists in society. This mindset prevails because people are taught to believe this is how it is supposed to be. They have observed such practices in their homes, and thus, they think it’s the right way until they encounter the real world. Our portrayal is designed to remind people that this inequality is unjust.”
Mahir further elaborated on the complexities of playing a negative role in the show. “It is not your typical villain,” he explained. “Digvijay is not just a guy who is always screaming and shouting; his actions are grounded in relatable facts. He does many things that a good person would do, but his methods are different, which makes him a relatable character.”
He added, “We all have moments in our heads where we imagine saying something back to someone who has wronged us, but in reality, we don’t act on those thoughts. Digvijay exists in that parallel universe where he does give it back, and that’s what makes him unique. Despite his villainous traits, there’s something about him that audiences will find endearing.”
Discussing the reception to his character DJ in Vanshaj, Mahir Pandhi expressed immense satisfaction.
. “This character is something I have always envisioned. While I may not be a household name, I have always wanted to play a villain in a movie and explore roles in South Indian cinema. Characters like Digvijay, or ones akin to the Joker, Robert Downey Jr’s Iron Man, or someone from Peaky Blinders but more outspoken, have always been my aspiration.”
He continued, articulating why playing a villain is more exhilarating than playing a positive lead. “When you play positive leads, there are limitations to what you can do. Everyone has their own traumas in life, and our behavior is often a reflection of our past and those traumas. Technically, positive characters represent how a person should be, while negative characters reflect who a person truly is. So, in that sense, Digvijay is the hero of the story, even if he is seen as the negative lead.”
Mahir Pandhi’s portrayal of Digvijay in Vanshaj is not just another antagonist role but a nuanced character study that challenges societal norms. Through Digvijay, the show highlights prevalent gender biases and encourages viewers to question and reflect on these outdated beliefs. The character’s complexity and relatability have undoubtedly contributed to the show’s success, making it a popular choice among the audience.
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In conclusion, Mahir Pandhi’s intricate portrayal of Digvijay in Vanshaj is a testament to his acting prowess. His character’s journey serves as a poignant reminder of existing societal issues, while his performance continues to receive acclaim from audiences, reinforcing Vanshaj’s standing as a must-watch show on Sony Sab.
