June 9, 2025 - In Bollywood, where set formulas and known faces are common, typecasting - getting the same kind of roles again and again - has become a big problem. But stars like Bhagyashree, Vivek Oberoi and Anant Mahadevan have shown that with hard work and courage, this problem can be overcome. In a special talk with Times of India, these stars shared how actors can surprise the audience with their role choice.

Let’s read the full story of this special talk.

Typecasting: Bollywood’s Old Problem

In Bollywood, actors are often given the same kind of roles again and again. If someone becomes popular as a romantic hero, he is offered similar roles every time. Producers fear that trying something new may flop, and even the audience wants to see the actor in the same image. But some stars have broken this pattern and made their own identity.

Vivek Oberoi: Took Risks to Change Image

Oberoi played many types of roles - romantic hero in Saathiya, gangster in Company, comic role in Masti and villain in Krrish 3. He proved he cannot be fit into just one role.

Vivek says, “To avoid typecasting, you must choose roles that surprise you.” He believes that today’s audience is more open-minded and likes all types of characters. His role in Malayalam film L2: Empuraan was also loved by fans.

Bhagyashree: New Roles After Family Life

Bhagyashree became famous with Maine Pyar Kiya, then took a break from acting after marriage. But her return surprised everyone. She did new types of roles in Radhe Shyam and Thalaivi. She says, “I never thought I would act again. But when I came back, I wanted to try something new.” She also praised actors like Ranveer Singh who play different roles every time.

Anant Mahadevan: Theatre and Indie Films Helped

Actor-director Mahadevan said that theatre and indie (independent) films help actors break typecasting. “In theatre, you get to play many kinds of roles. That helps in mainstream cinema too,” he said. He worked in offbeat films like Rough Copy and The Storyteller to show his range.

Producers Play Safe

Mahadevan also said that most producers still choose “safe” casting. They don’t want to take risks. But things are changing. Today’s audience wants to see actors in new roles. Vivek added, “If your acting is honest, people will accept you in every kind of role.”

Actors Who Broke the Mould

Bhagyashree mentioned that actors like Rishi Kapoor and Sanjeev Kumar broke typecasting in their time. Kapoor did strong roles in Prem Rog and Damini. Kumar impressed everyone with Koshish and Shatranj Ke Khiladi. Today, Ranveer Singh follows the same path with roles in Padmaavat, 83, and Jayeshbhai Jordaar.

The Game Changers

Today, social media and OTT platforms give actors the chance to try different roles. Mahadevan said, “OTT gives space to play new characters.”

Vivek also acted in shows like Inside Edge and Dharamveer. Social media also helps actors change their image and show a different side to their fans.

Rahul Bhatt's Journey

Recently, actor Rahul Bhatt has openly talked about how Bollywood ignores talented actors who don’t fit the typical hero image. He said the industry often chooses stars over skill. But after his strong role in Kennedy, people noticed his talent. Rahul said, “I was never the first choice, but that doesn’t mean I wasn’t good enough.”

His journey proves that hard work and good roles can break the rules of typecasting in Hindi cinema.