‘Taskaree’: Emraan Hashmi, Sharad Kelkar, Zoya and Nandish Sandhu Share Their Experiences

The web series ‘Taskaree’, released on an OTT platform, has garnered widespread appreciation from viewers. Featuring powerful performances by Emraan Hashmi, Sharad Kelkar, Zoya Afroz, and Nandish Sandhu, the series has impressed audiences with its gripping narrative. The show is helmed by acclaimed filmmaker Neeraj Pandey, whose direction adds depth and realism to the story. Amidst the success, the entire team spoke candidly in an interview about their roles, shooting experiences, the changing mindset of the industry, evolving casting trends on OTT, and what it was like working with Neeraj Pandey. Here’s what they had to say:

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How do you see the story of Taskaree?

Emraan: “Our script presents smuggling like a game of hide-and-seek. When smugglers are caught, they come up with newer and smarter ways. That’s what makes the story engaging and thrilling.”

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Have you ever been stopped by customs or immigration at an airport?

Emraan: “Yes, I’ve been stopped at immigration several times, especially in my early years. Back then, I had earrings and spiked hair—maybe I fit some kind of profile. But I’ve never had issues with customs; I’ve always been civil with them.”

Sharad: “I haven’t had a personal experience, but I have friends in customs. I’ve heard many interesting stories from them. They have their own techniques, which are fascinating.”

Zoya: “I’ve visited the Customs Museum in Goa. You get to see how smuggling is done through seats, shoes, chocolates, and wafers. It’s a very interesting place and really eye-opening.”

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How do you look at the love you received after Bands of Bollywood?

Emraan: “It feels like a big compliment. The role was small, but the impact was huge. In the first 10 years of my career, I felt that men didn’t really like me much. That perception seems to be changing now.”

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How challenging was the journey from television to OTT and films?

Sharad: “Unlearning is extremely important. After every project, you have to forget your previous character. Television gave me a strong foundation, but I kept changing roles so that I wouldn’t get stuck in one image.”

Nandish: “Taskaree is special for me because I always wanted to play a character in uniform. I studied in a military school and wanted to join the armed forces. This role is very close to my heart.”

What are your thoughts on female characters today?

Zoya: “I’m still at the beginning of my career, so I’m not really in a position to pick and choose. But working with Neeraj sir itself is a huge deal for me. He has written my character, Priya, with many layers. She’s not just part of the show but actively drives the story forward.”

How has your experience been playing grey or negative characters?

Emraan: “I’m drawn to characters I don’t relate to, because they challenge me as an actor. Shanghai was my first such role, and I had to do a seven-day workshop to get into the character.”

How was it working with a ‘strict’ director like Neeraj Pandey?

Emraan:“He’s not strict at all—he’s actually very sweet. But he’s extremely precise about the script. I tried improvising twice, and he politely said, ‘Let’s stick to the script.’ His planning is outstanding.”
Sharad: “He prefers shooting in one-shots. Usually, scenes are wrapped up in just two takes. He knows exactly what he wants in the edit.”
Zoya: “On my very first day, he gave me the heaviest scene to shoot. That made me realize how much faith he has in his actors and his writing.”

Is it important for actors to break their image?

Emraan: “If you want longevity, you must surprise the audience from time to time. OTT platforms have played a big role in bringing this change.”

What would you like to say about on-screen image versus off-screen personality?

Zoya: “Emraan’s on-screen image is quite intense, but off-screen he’s a complete gentleman. Working with him was a wonderful experience.”

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