Betaal (Netflix) Webseries Actress And Actor

Online streaming platform Netflix going to release a thriller Hindi web series “Betaal” from 24th May 2020.

Betaal Webseries Details

Start Date	May 24, 2020
Genre	Thriller | Drama
Season
Language	Hindi
OTT Platform	Netflix
Origin Country
Location(s)
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Netflix web series BETAAL cast(s)

	Viineet Kumar
	Aahana Kamra
	Suchitra Pillai Malik
	Jitendra Joshi
	Jitendra Joshi

BETAAL makers

	Patrick Graham	Director
	Nikhil Mahajan.	Director

BETAAL Web Series Trailer

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The Battalion of Brilliance: Unpacking the Star-Studded Cast of Netflix’s ‘Betaal’

When Netflix announced its foray into the Indian horror-thriller space with a zombie series, expectations were immediately set sky-high. Produced by Shah Rukh Khan’s Red Chillies Entertainment and Blumhouse Productions, ‘Betaal’ was marketed as a ground-breaking venture, pitting modern-day soldiers against a two-century-old curse. The four-episode mini-series, set on a remote mountain that becomes a battleground between a Counter Insurgency Police Division (CIPD) squad and a horde of zombie redcoats from the British Raj, required a cast that could handle both high-octane action and intense psychological drama.

The brilliance of Betaal lies not just in its unique blend of Indian folklore, military action, and zombie horror, but in the powerhouse ensemble of actors and actresses who brought this terrifying tale to life. From critically acclaimed stars known for transforming completely for a role to seasoned theatre veterans, this article delves into the professional journey and pivotal performances of the key cast members who fought the undead on the cursed Betaal Mountain.

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The Leading Man: Vineet Kumar Singh as Vikram Sirohi

Leading the CIPD team—the Baaz Squad—is Vineet Kumar Singh, portraying the conflicted and morally compromised Colonel Vikram Sirohi. Sirohi is a character haunted by a past operational failure, making his battle against the ‘Betaal’ curse an intense struggle for professional and personal redemption.

Character Profile: Vikram Sirohi

• Role in Betaal: The protagonist, a troubled Counter Insurgency Police Division officer forced to confront a supernatural threat in a remote region.
• Performance Insight: In an interview, Vineet Kumar Singh mentioned that he approached the role with his usual method of preparation, emphasizing that the technical aspects and visual effects involved in a zombie project did not alter his fundamental acting process. He also expressed a lifelong fascination with the armed forces, noting that wearing the uniform for the show was a “dream come true” experience.

The Journey of a Versatile Actor

Vineet Kumar Singh’s path to becoming a leading man is a testament to perseverance, talent, and versatility.

• Early Life & Education: Uniquely, Vineet Kumar Singh is a licensed medical practitioner, holding a degree in Bachelor of Ayurveda, Medicine and Surgery (B.H.M.S.) and an MD (Doctor of Medicine) in Ayurveda from Government Ayurvedic College and Hospital, Nagpur. He was also a talented basketball player, competing at the national level.
• Breakthrough Roles: After years of struggle and taking on small roles, he gained significant recognition for his portrayal of Danish Khan in Anurag Kashyap’s acclaimed crime drama, Gangs of Wasseypur (2012).
• The Mukkabaaz Transformation: His defining role came in 2018 with Mukkabaaz, a film for which he not only played the lead role of an aspiring boxer but also co-wrote the script with his sister. To prepare for the part, Singh underwent intensive boxing training for two years, cementing his reputation as a dedication-driven actor.
• Other Notable Work: He has also appeared in other significant web series, including the Netflix Original Bard of Blood and the ZEE5 series Rangbaaz: Darr Ki Rajneeti.

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The Female Force: Aahana Kumra as DC ‘Ahlu’ Ahluwalia

Aahana Kumra plays DC ‘Ahlu’ Ahluwalia, a tough and disciplined officer in the Baaz Squad who is second-in-command to Vikram Sirohi. Ahluwalia is characterized by a mysterious scar on her face and an unwavering professional demeanour, embodying a different, more rugged kind of cinematic female protagonist.

Character Profile: DC ‘Ahlu’ Ahluwalia

• Role in Betaal: A strong, scarred, and resolute member of the Counter Insurgency Police Division squad.
• Performance Insight: Kumra embraced the challenge of the role, particularly the requirement for a raw and realistic look. She reportedly did a significant number of action sequences herself and wore prosthetics for 45 to 50 days to maintain the authentic look of her character’s injury. She noted that she was sold on the role when the director informed her she would need a “no-makeup look” to embody a realistic, rugged army officer, a refreshing shift from industry pressure to always look glamorous.

The Stage-to-Screen Powerhouse

Aahana Kumra is an established actress with a strong background in theatre, having trained under the legendary Naseeruddin Shah’s theatre company, Motley.

• Breakthrough in Indie Cinema: Her performance in the critically acclaimed black comedy film, Lipstick Under My Burkha (2017), brought her widespread recognition and positioned her as an actor championing content-driven cinema.
• Diverse Roles: Her versatility is showcased through roles like the daughter of Amitabh Bachchan’s character in the television miniseries Yudh (2014) and portraying a political figure in the film The Accidental Prime Minister (2019).
• Commitment to Craft: Kumra is one of the actresses who prioritizes character portrayal over superficial beauty standards, a philosophy perfectly aligned with the demanding nature of her role in Betaal.

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The Antagonist Duo: Suchitra Pillai and Jitendra Joshi

The conflict in Betaal is not just between the living and the undead, but also between the morally ambiguous characters fighting for survival and self-interest. Two key actors anchor this human drama.

1. Suchitra Pillai as Commandant Tyagi

Suchitra Pillai plays Commandant Tyagi, the high-ranking officer who is responsible for the overall operation and, ultimately, the one whose commands lead the Baaz Squad into the cursed territory. Her character is one of authority, discipline, and morally questionable decision-making.

The Multi-Talented Veteran

Suchitra Pillai-Malik is a multi-hyphenate artist with a career spanning modeling, anchoring, singing, and acting.

• A Unique Background: A graduate in Electronic Engineering, she chose to pursue a career in the arts instead, beginning with theatre in London.
• Mainstream Presence: Pillai is a familiar face in Indian cinema, known for notable supporting roles in films like Dil Chahta Hai (2001), Page 3 (2005), and Fashion (2008).
• Voice of Hollywood: She is also a prolific voice actress, having dubbed roles in Hindi for major Hollywood films, including Cate Blanchett’s Hela in Thor: Ragnarok and Maggie Gyllenhaal in The Dark Knight.

2. Jitendra Joshi as Ajay Mudhalvan

Jitendra Joshi portrays Ajay Mudhalvan, the avaricious and manipulative contractor hired by the government whose mission to construct a highway through the sacred Betaal Mountain unleashes the ancient curse.

The Sacred Games Star

Jitendra Joshi is predominantly known for his powerful work in Marathi cinema and, more recently, for his breakout roles in streaming content.

• The Role of a Lifetime: He gained pan-Indian fame for his nuanced and emotionally resonant portrayal of Constable Katekar in the Netflix series Sacred Games (2018).
• Marathi Cinema King: He is a celebrated figure in the Marathi industry, best known for his lead role as Sant Tukaram in the film Tukaram (2012) and his critically acclaimed, award-winning performance in the film Godavari (2021).
• A New Antagonist: Joshi noted that his role as the nasty, ambitious contractor Mudhalvan in Betaal was a departure from his previous characters, a challenge he embraced for the show. He also revealed that despite being in a horror series, he is not a fan of the genre himself.

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The Supporting Pillars of the Series

The success of Betaal‘s tense, high-stakes plot relies heavily on the nuanced performances of its supporting cast, each bringing a critical layer to the human side of the conflict.

Manjiri Pupala as Puniya

Manjiri Pupala plays Puniya, a tribal villager and a fierce local advocate who attempts to protect the cursed Betaal Mountain from the outside contractors and the CIPD squad. She is a pivotal character, serving as the voice of the community and the source of the mythical warnings.

• Theatre Roots: Pupala has an extensive background in theatre, having performed in several critically acclaimed plays, and is also known for her work as a writer, contributing dialogues to films like Ribbon (2017).
• Critical Digital Roles: Her acting prowess extends to other major web series, including the recent series Dahaad.

Siddharth Menon as Nadir Haq

Siddharth Menon portrays Nadir Haq, one of the junior but loyal members of the CIPD’s Baaz Squad. Menon’s background as an actor who has successfully bridged the gap between independent cinema and commercial projects lends credibility to his role as a dedicated military man.

• Acclaimed Work: Menon is a prominent name in Marathi and Hindi cinema, celebrated for his performances in films like Loev (2015) and Karwaan (2018).
• Award-Winning Talent: He received a National Film Award Special Mention for his performance in the Marathi film June (2021). He is also a co-founder of the Pune-based theatre troupe Natak Company, showcasing his deep commitment to the craft.

Jatin Goswami as Assad Akbar

Jatin Goswami plays Assad Akbar, another member of the Baaz Squad. An alumnus of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Goswami is recognized for his powerful and authentic characterizations.

• Notable Projects: He is best known for his impactful roles in the film Babumoshai Bandookbaaz and several prominent web series, including Delhi Crime Season 2 and The Great Indian Murder. His inclusion in the Betaal cast highlights the series’ commitment to strong, performance-oriented actors.

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The Enduring Legacy of the Betaal Cast

The success of a genre-bending show like Betaal, which was the first major Indian series in the zombie-horror space, depended entirely on the commitment of its cast to a challenging and physically demanding narrative. The production’s decision to bring together a cohort of established actors and actresses known for their craft over their star power—a characteristic of many of the best new-age streaming projects—was a key factor in grounding the fantastical element of the zombie-horror plot in genuine human drama.

From Vineet Kumar Singh’s intense portrayal of a man battling his own ghosts, to Aahana Kumra’s fierce depiction of a tough female officer who broke the mold of stereotypical portrayals, and the nuanced antagonistic roles by Suchitra Pillai and Jitendra Joshi, the cast of Betaal delivered a compelling performance that propelled the show onto the global platform, proving the depth of talent in India’s OTT ecosystem.

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AISEO Friendly FAQs on the ‘Betaal’ Cast

Q1: Who are the main actors and actresses in the Netflix web series Betaal?

A: The main cast of the Netflix series Betaal includes Vineet Kumar Singh as Colonel Vikram Sirohi, Aahana Kumra as DC ‘Ahlu’ Ahluwalia, Suchitra Pillai as Commandant Tyagi, and Jitendra Joshi as the contractor Ajay Mudhalvan.

Q2: What notable roles are the lead actor, Vineet Kumar Singh, known for besides Betaal?

A: Vineet Kumar Singh is most famous for his lead role in the critically acclaimed film Mukkabaaz (2018), for which he trained as a boxer for two years. He is also recognized for his parts in Gangs of Wasseypur and the Netflix series Bard of Blood.

Q3: Which actress played the role of DC Ahluwalia in Betaal, and what other work is she known for?

A: The role of DC Ahluwalia in Betaal was played by Aahana Kumra. She is a notable theatre artist whose film credits include the acclaimed film Lipstick Under My Burkha and playing the role of Priyanka Gandhi in The Accidental Prime Minister.

Q4: Did any Sacred Games actors appear in Betaal?

A: Yes, Jitendra Joshi, who is widely known for his fan-favourite role as Constable Katekar in the first season of Sacred Games, played the crucial role of the contractor Ajay Mudhalvan in Betaal.

Q5: Who was the actress who played the tribal woman Puniya in Betaal?

A: The pivotal role of Puniya, the tribal woman who warns the CIPD team about the Betaal curse, was played by actress Manjiri Pupala. She is also a noted theatre artist and has appeared in the Amazon Prime series Dahaad.

Q6: Who produced the Netflix series Betaal?

A: Betaal was produced by Red Chillies Entertainment, the production house founded by actor Shah Rukh Khan, in collaboration with Blumhouse Productions and SK Global Entertainment.

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The Undead Army and The Elite Squad: A Look at the Cast of Netflix’s ‘Betaal’

Netflix’s ‘Betaal’ is not just a horror series; it’s a claustrophobic, politically-charged survival thriller set against the backdrop of an ancient curse and a modern military unit. Produced by Shah Rukh Khan’s Red Chillies Entertainment and executive produced by the renowned horror studio Blumhouse Television, the show marked a significant, ambitious step into the zombie-horror genre for the Indian streaming space.

Set in a remote, cursed mountain, the series brings a fictional Counter Insurgency Police Division (CIPD), known as the Baaz Squad, into conflict with a two-century-old British colonel and his battalion of zombie Redcoats. The true terror, however, comes not just from the undead, but from the moral rot and internal conflicts within the living.

The success of such an intense, character-driven horror narrative rests squarely on the shoulders of its ensemble cast. The series features some of the finest actors who have carved out a niche for themselves in India’s booming OTT (Over-The-Top) streaming ecosystem, often playing complex, morally ambiguous characters.

Here is an in-depth look at the talented actors and actresses who brought the chilling world of ‘Betaal’ to life.

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The Leads: Actors Driving the Central Conflict

The core of ‘Betaal’ revolves around a few key individuals from the Baaz Squad and the civilian/tribal factions, whose decisions dictate the fate of the entire group.

Vineet Kumar Singh as Vikram Sirohi

Role in ‘Betaal’: Vineet Kumar Singh plays Commandant Vikram Sirohi, a highly decorated but deeply troubled officer leading the Baaz Squad. Sirohi is haunted by a past incident, a moral compromise, and his character arc is central to the series, forcing him to confront his inner “demon” as he battles the literal one.

A Career Defined by Dedication: Vineet Kumar Singh’s journey to becoming a leading man is a testament to perseverance and dedication, mirroring the intense preparation he brings to his roles.

• The Mukkabaaz Breakthrough: Singh’s career-defining moment came with the 2018 Anurag Kashyap film Mukkabaaz. Not only did he star as the aspiring boxer Shravan Kumar Singh, but he also co-wrote the script, which was inspired by his own observations of struggling athletes in India.
• Intense Method Acting: To authenticate his portrayal, Singh spent a year training for the role, undertaking intense boxing lessons at the Netaji Subhas National Institute of Sports in Patiala, keeping his identity as an actor a secret from his trainers. He even endured months of punches, broken ribs, and intense workouts, cementing his reputation as a committed artist.
• Beyond the Screen: Before acting became his full-time profession, Singh was a national-level basketball player and holds an M.D. in Ayurveda (Bachelor of Ayurveda, Medicine and Surgery) from the Government Medical College and Hospital, Nagpur. This unique background gives him a formidable discipline, which is evident in his physically demanding roles, including that of the Commandant in ‘Betaal’.

Aahana Kumra as DC ‘Ahlu’ Ahluwalia

Role in ‘Betaal’: Aahana Kumra portrays DC ‘Ahlu’ Ahluwalia, an armed officer and a crucial member of the Baaz Squad, who serves as a voice of reason. Her character is a fierce, no-nonsense fighter, representing the strong female characters that the series creators highlighted as a distinguishing factor in the genre.

Notable Works in Film and OTT: Aahana Kumra has consistently chosen unconventional and powerful roles, often utilizing the democratic space of OTT platforms to break away from traditional portrayals of women.

• A Versatile Profile: Kumra gained early recognition by starring alongside the legendary Amitabh Bachchan in the 2013 television series Yudh, where she played the pivotal role of his daughter.
• The Indie and Political Space: She received critical acclaim for her leading role as Leela in the black comedy film Lipstick Under My Burkha (2017), a film celebrated for its bold themes. The following year, she transformed to portray Priyanka Gandhi in the political biography film The Accidental Prime Minister (2018).
• The Unconventional Choice: Kumra has acknowledged that working on streaming services allows for more creative and fearless character creation, enabling actors to experiment with dark and edgy shades without the pressure of box office results. Her role in ‘Betaal’ as an armed officer with a visible scar further demonstrates her commitment to non-glamorous, performance-first roles.

Suchitra Pillai as Commandant Tyagi

Role in ‘Betaal’: Suchitra Pillai takes on the role of Commandant Tyagi, an authoritative and formidable leader. Her character’s descent into the darkness of the ‘Betaal’ curse provides some of the series’ most dramatic and chilling moments.

A Multi-Faceted Veteran: Pillai has one of the most diverse career portfolios in the industry, having worked across cinema, television, music, and theatre since the 1990s.

• From Engineering to Entertainment: After graduating with a degree in Electronics Engineering, Pillai chose a career in the arts, starting in children’s theatre in London.
• The VJ and Film Era: She returned to India and became a prominent VJ, later appearing in notable films like Dil Chahta Hai (2001), Page 3 (2005), and Fashion (2008).
• The Voice of Hollywood: Beyond acting, Suchitra Pillai is a prolific voice and dubbing artist. She has provided the Hindi voice-over for significant Hollywood characters, most famously voicing the powerful antagonist Hela (played by Cate Blanchett) in the Hindi version of Thor: Ragnarok. Her extensive experience brings a grounded gravitas to the high-stakes military drama of ‘Betaal’.

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Key Ensemble Actors: The Supporting Pillars

The strength of ‘Betaal’ also lies in its meticulously cast supporting roles, which provide the moral and dramatic friction within the survival story.

Jitendra Joshi as Ajay Mudhalvan

Role in ‘Betaal’: Jitendra Joshi plays Ajay Mudhalvan, a corrupt tycoon and the contractor whose greed is the catalyst for unleashing the Betaal curse. His character is shrewd, entitled, and a pure antagonist in the story of the living.

The Transformation from Katekar: Joshi is a highly acclaimed actor, predominantly known for his work in Marathi cinema, but he achieved nationwide fame with a single, beloved OTT role.

• The Sacred Games Star: He is globally recognized for his widely loved and critically acclaimed performance as Constable Katekar in the first season of Netflix’s Sacred Games. Katekar was a loyal, affable partner to the protagonist, and his character’s untimely death was a major emotional turning point for viewers.
• A Versatile Artist: Joshi is an actor, writer, and host, and has delivered celebrated performances in Marathi cinema, winning the Best Actor Award at the 52nd International Film Festival of India for the film Godavari.
• Embracing the Villain: His role as the ruthless Mudhalvan in ‘Betaal’ was a deliberate attempt to give a complete makeover to his amiable image from Sacred Games, proving his versatility by playing a character you “wish my death comes soon.”

Manjiri Pupala as Puniya

Role in ‘Betaal’: Manjiri Pupala plays Puniya, a tribal woman whose village is being forcibly displaced by Mudhalvan’s project. She represents the local resistance and her arc sees her caught in the dilemma of whether to help the CIPD forces who are responsible for her village’s plight against the zombie horde.

A Strong Theatre Foundation: Pupala has a solid background in theatre, having worked extensively for over a decade in Marathi, Hindi, and English plays, including productions at the prestigious Prithvi Theatre in Mumbai.

• The Fighter: Pupala’s portrayal of Puniya was noted for its intensity; the actress felt a deep connection to the character, describing her as a “good-hearted goonda” and a “fighter” who would stand for what she believed in.
• The Catalyst for Future Roles: Her compelling performance in ‘Betaal’ was instrumental in landing her subsequent roles, such as the blind psychic in the film Gaslight, as the director specifically enjoyed her work as Puniya. ‘Betaal’ was a significant milestone for Pupala, being her first project on such a large scale with Netflix and a Shah Rukh Khan production.

Siddharth Menon as Nadir Haq

Role in ‘Betaal’: Siddharth Menon plays Nadir Haq, another member of the Baaz Squad who finds himself fighting for survival against the undead.

A Multifaceted Performer: Menon is known for his work across films, television, and theatre, particularly in the Marathi film industry.

• Theatre Roots and Acclaim: He was one of the founding members of the Pune-based theatre troupe, Natak Company, and gained early fame for his role in the crime-thriller play Peddlers. His filmography includes the acclaimed films Loev (2015) and Karwaan (2018).
• Award-Winning Work: Menon’s dedication to his craft was recognized when he won a National Film Award for his performance in the Marathi film June (2021).
• Musical Theatre Experience: A versatile performer, he also played the titular character during the Indian run of the Broadway musical Aladdin, requiring him to undergo physical training, which he could tap into for the action sequences of ‘Betaal’.

Jatin Goswami as Assad Akbar

Role in ‘Betaal’: Jatin Goswami plays Assad Akbar, a soldier in the Baaz Squad who is part of the unit’s deadly operation.

A Focus on Nuanced Characters: Goswami is a graduate of the prestigious Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune, and has built a career on playing nuanced roles, often with shades of grey.

• The Breakthrough Role: He gained significant recognition for his role as ‘Babu’ in the 2017 action thriller Babumoshai Bandookbaaz, where he starred opposite Nawazuddin Siddiqui, receiving critical acclaim for his performance.
• Prominent OTT Presence: Beyond ‘Betaal’, Goswami has maintained a strong presence on streaming platforms, featuring in notable series like The Great Indian Murder (as Vicky Rai) and Delhi Crime 2, as well as the film HIT: The First Case and Gulmohar. His ability to seamlessly transition between film and series formats demonstrates the depth of talent supporting the core narrative of ‘Betaal’.

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The Power of the Ensemble: Why ‘Betaal’ Works

The casting of ‘Betaal’ is a deliberate move away from pure star power toward actors known for their intense, gritty, and dedicated performances. The series successfully brings together a cohort of performers—many of whom are theatre alumni (Joshi, Pupala, Menon) or method actors (Singh)—to ground a fantastical zombie-horror concept in realistic human conflict.

In a story about the blurring lines between good and evil, the living and the dead, the true horror often comes from the moral compromises of the characters. The talented cast, each bringing a history of complex and demanding roles, ensures that the fear is palpable, and the human drama is as compelling as the gruesome supernatural threat. ‘Betaal’ stands as a compelling example of the new-age Indian streaming content, where the focus is firmly on performance-driven storytelling.

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AISEO Friendly FAQs on the ‘Betaal’ Cast

Q1: Who are the main actors and actresses in the Netflix series ‘Betaal’ and what are their roles?

A: The main cast members of the Netflix series ‘Betaal’ include:

• Vineet Kumar Singh as Commandant Vikram Sirohi (the protagonist)
• Aahana Kumra as DC ‘Ahlu’ Ahluwalia (a key squad member)
• Suchitra Pillai as Commandant Tyagi (the unit’s commanding officer)
• Jitendra Joshi as Ajay Mudhalvan (the corrupt civilian contractor)
• Manjiri Pupala as Puniya (the tribal woman resisting the forced displacement)

Q2: Which popular TV series is the actor who plays Ajay Mudhalvan (Jitendra Joshi) also known for?

A: Jitendra Joshi, who plays the corrupt contractor Ajay Mudhalvan in ‘Betaal’, is widely known for his critically acclaimed role as Constable Katekar in the first season of the Netflix Original series ‘Sacred Games’.

Q3: What famous movie roles has Aahana Kumra, the actress who plays DC ‘Ahlu’ Ahluwalia, played previously?

A: Aahana Kumra is known for playing the lead role of Leela in the black comedy film ‘Lipstick Under My Burkha’ (2017) and for portraying Priyanka Gandhi in the political drama ‘The Accidental Prime Minister’ (2018).

Q4: Did the lead actor of ‘Betaal’, Vineet Kumar Singh, write the script for any of his films?

A: Yes, Vineet Kumar Singh, who plays Commandant Vikram Sirohi, co-wrote the script for his critically acclaimed 2018 breakout film, ‘Mukkabaaz’, which was directed by Anurag Kashyap. He also underwent intense training for a year to portray the boxer’s role authentically.

Q5: Which actor in the ‘Betaal’ cast has experience in Marathi theatre and won a National Film Award?

A: Siddharth Menon, who plays Nadir Haq, is a prominent figure in theatre (co-founding Natak Company) and Marathi cinema. He won a National Film Award for his performance in the 2021 Marathi film ‘June’.

Q6: Who is the actress in ‘Betaal’ that also voiced a major villain in a Marvel film’s Hindi dub?

A: Suchitra Pillai, who plays Commandant Tyagi in ‘Betaal’, is also a prolific voice actress. She provided the Hindi voice-over for the Marvel villain Hela (played by Cate Blanchett) in the film ‘Thor: Ragnarok’.