28th April,2024, Mumbai:
Next up for the actor Jason Tham is the television series Ranneeti: Balakot & Beyond, in which he plays special agent Victor. According to Jason, one unique aspect of Victor’s position was that he saw the mastermind behind both the Pulwama incident and Operation Balakot.
He was not only actively participated in the operation but also made a significant contribution to its success from the time the team was formed, through the conception of the operation, the decision made in the war room, to its ultimate execution. “I was portraying a special agent who was undercover with Maoists for three years,” he says, discussing his preparation for the job. Someone who had murdered seven Maoists in one evening. Killer with a cold heart, Victor joined Jimmy Shergill’s (Kashyap) military intelligence outfit. In order to do this function, I had to gain some muscle, which required consistent exercise and a particular diet.
How is this series going to be any different from the others when we’ve already seen enough films and television shows about the Balatkot and Pulwama attacks?
“There are a lot of remakes nowadays, but what stands out is the director’s vision of portraying the film,” responds Jason when questioned. Our director has faithfully brought the story to life on screen while capturing its essential elements. That first day of shooting really impressed me. In order to maintain the flow of the war room scenario, which primarily consists of verbal and informational discussion, our director Santosh Singh gave the actors explicit instructions. He wanted to produce long, single-take shots with extremely fast-paced dialogue. In order to accomplish this, we used to practise prior to the shot at least 5-8 times. The entire duration of this event promises to be an exciting ride. With numerous heart-stopping incidents. I won’t tell anything more; just grab some popcorn and be ready for an emotional roller coaster.
Jason on friendship with Jimmy Shergill
Jimmy Shergill, who happens to have previously starred together in the movie Happy Phir Bhag Jayegi, plays a significant role in the series. Jason elaborates on their friendship by saying, “With Jimmy sir, we already established a bond. This show was no different. When we first met on the Ranneeti set, we clicked immediately. He has no attitude and is quite modest. I recall his assisting me in adding a distinct taste to improve the scene. I respect his way of thinking. He used to constantly tell me to post more videos on social media to increase their virality. He actually grabbed my phone and recorded a reel for me in exchange. I truly look up to and respect him as a friend.
Jason discusses what he learned most from Ranneeti
“We all know about the airstrike and the Pulwama attack, but nobody knows what went into the operation.” Being a part of an event that will go down in history makes me feel incredibly proud. I have had the good fortune to learn of previously unreported details regarding the operation.
By-Sapna Meena