I have enjoyed working with women directors more: Actor Vikrant Massey

Vikrant Massey, actor

Vikrant Massey | Omkar Chitnis Vikrant Massey | Omkar Chitnis

Vikrant Massey, who we feature in the latest issue of SMART LIFE, came into the limelight in the 2000s with a prominent role in the TV show Balika Vadhu. He made his debut in cinema with a small but meaty role in Vikramaditya Motwane’s Lootera (2013). His performance in Konkona Sen Sharma’s A Death in the Gunj (2016) won him wide acclaim. In the last couple of months, Massey has appeared in many web shows, like Mirzapur, Broken But Beautiful, Made In Heaven and Criminal Justice.

It has been a long journey from television to films and web shows. How has life changed?

I am really grateful for the way it has been. We always want certain things in our minds and hearts, and when you are blessed with what you have wished for, or more, there is a sense of gratitude; a belief that eventually things do happen if you have faith. So far, it has been great.

You play a sensitive youth, Shutu, in A Death in the Gunj—a character ridiculed by others. Would you consider the role to be a game-changer in your career?

I would say so. We wanted the audience to take cognisance of those like Shutu. It is very easy to box people [into various categories]. Shutu is a by-product of the people around him. I was really lucky to be part of such an ensemble cast and to play the central character. I had always wished to play such a character, and I knew I could shoulder the responsibility. When it came my way, I was grateful.

You have worked with many women directors. Four of your upcoming projects are directed by women—Chhapaak, Dolly Kitty Aur Woh Chamakte Sitaare, Pind Daan and Cargo. Is it different from working with male directors?

It is different. I would not deny it. And, I also recognise the difference. Women are more compassionate and empathetic. Because of that, women who are in respectable positions are bound to do well and get the best out of people. As much as I have loved working with male directors, I have enjoyed working with women directors more. Maybe I connect with the opposite gender better.

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