For actor Shweta Tripathi, 2026 has become a year of revisiting two important chapters of her creative life. While audiences associate her with the fierce and resilient Golu Gupta from Prime Video’s hit series ‘Mirzapur’, the actor has also reconnected with the stage through the play ‘External Affairs’, nearly ten years after her last theatre performance.
Shweta Tripathi on Mirzapur Season 4
Even years after its debut, ‘Mirzapur’ remains one of India's most talked-about streaming franchises. As speculation around a fourth season continues, Shweta admitted to Variety India that she eagerly awaits the opportunity to step back into Golu’s shoes.
“Mirzapur is pure love for us, and Golu is, of course, incredibly special. With all these seasons, it’s almost going to be a decade now. Not only have we earned money from it, but we have earned so much more - the love, respect and connection. The cast and crew have become family. We have shared so much together,” she said.
Since the series first premiered in 2018, viewers have witnessed Golu’s dramatic transformation from a studious young woman into one of Purvanchal’s most formidable figures in the power struggle. For Tripathi, portraying that evolution has been deeply fulfilling.
Discussing her attachment to the role, the actor explained that Golu remains among the most meaningful characters she has portrayed. “Golu is super special. I love playing her. When we talk about archetypes, I think Golu is a warrior. She is a girl who continues to behave with dignity even in the most difficult circumstances. She is not a poster girl. The things she witnessed changed her completely, and that is deeply unfortunate.”
The emotional weight of the character, however, was not easy to leave behind after filming wrapped. “Especially in Seasons 2 and 3, I went into a deep rabbit hole and it took me time to come out of it. But I still love her so much.” Her excitement about the future of the series is equally evident. “I cannot wait for Season 4. Fingers crossed. I’m praying for it. I am so excited. I can't wait to meet Golu again.”
Shweta Tripathi on returning to the stage after ten years
While anticipation for ‘Mirzapur’ continues, Tripathi is currently immersed in another passion. Her latest play, ‘External Affairs’, marks a major return to theatre, the medium that first sparked her love for acting. “I think it’s been 10 years since the last time I did a play. We are two shows down and I can’t tell you how exciting it is.”
The actor describes performing live as an entirely different experience that demands complete focus and presence. Her connection with theatre dates back to childhood, when artistic performances became a regular part of her upbringing.
“Since childhood, my parents exposed us to dance performances, poetry and theater. I think that stayed with me. Experiences shape who we become. Even before I became a full-time actor, I would spend whatever I could to experience theater because that genuinely excited me,” she said.
Shweta Tripathi on sharing the stage with husband Chaitanya Sharma
The production has also given Tripathi an opportunity to collaborate closely with her husband, musician and actor Chaitanya Sharma, popularly known as SlowCheeta. Working together has been a rewarding experience, she says, particularly because of his disciplined approach to the craft.
“He is one of my favorite human beings and is extremely disciplined. One thing theatre has taught me all over again is preparation. That is so important,” she added.
Beyond acting, Tripathi is increasingly investing her energy in developing projects as a producer. She revealed that multiple scripts are currently in various stages of development, with talented writers and directors already attached. As she balances acting, theatre and production ambitions, Tripathi appears focused on building stories both in front of and behind the camera, adding another exciting dimension to an already versatile career.
