Murshid: Tanuj Virwani on what sets the series apart from other crime drama, says, ‘I think what truly stands out is…’ - Exclusive

MUMBAI: In your opinion, what sets Murshid apart from other crime dramas on OTT platforms?
I feel what really sets Murshid apart is that there’s something very raw and guerrilla about the way the show has been put together. Of course, it’s got its smart elements, its one-liners, and the amazing story about this dreaded gangster who also has a heart of gold but can be vicious and cunning at the same time. But I think what truly stands out is the extended star cast, the pacing of the show, and the dichotomy the characters go through. The way the narrative keeps shifting between the past and the present keeps you on your toes—you never really know what to expect next. The scope and scale of the story, set between Bombay and Dubai, and between different time periods, adds another layer of satisfaction to the story as a whole. This allows you to come up with your own individual fantasy of what a gang clan should be like. Otherwise, if you’re making a biopic, you can’t stray too far from the truth—you have to stay true to the source material. But here, Shravan sir, being both the writer and director, could really let his imagination run wild and create the best of both worlds.

Reflecting on your career, what drew you to this role in Murshid, and how do you think this character will resonate with audiences?

My character in the series experiences a significant range of emotions, which is what initially drew me to this role. When I’m considering a project, it’s never about how many scenes I’m in—that’s secondary to me. Even just a handful of scenes—5 or 7—can have a huge impact on what’s happening on screen. That’s the beauty of the OTT space, especially in a show like this, which is filled with interesting characters played by talented actors. Shooting mostly on real locations added an extra layer of authenticity. I found this role to be a very interesting and different path for me compared to the work I usually do. People tend to see me as a city-centric, urban guy because those are the roles I typically get. Playing a khaki-clad inspector gave me a completely different perspective on what I’m aiming to achieve as an actor.