Veteran Bollywood actor Samir Soni, recognized for his memorable performances in films like Baghban, Vivah, and Fashion, is embarking on an exciting new chapter in his career. He is making his debut in the vertical storytelling format with the series Chhupa Rustam Billionaire.
From Skepticism to Acceptance: Samir Soni's Journey into Vertical Storytelling
Samir Soni openly admitted that he initially had reservations about working in this new format. He revealed that he had previously turned down several offers for vertical content. "I had received offers for vertical formats earlier, but since I had never worked in this space, I kept declining them," the actor shared. However, the compelling narrative of Chhupa Rustam Billionaire proved irresistible. "When Chhupa Rustam Billionaire came to me, the concept instantly caught my attention," he explained, highlighting the power of a good story to break down barriers.
Unveiling the Plot and Character of Tez
The series, created by Shakeb Sayed and directed by Shadab Khan—whose independent documentary I Am No Queen was featured at the prestigious 98th Academy Awards—promises a gripping tale. The story revolves around a wealthy, arrogant family that looks down upon and mistreats its staff.
Samir Soni plays the titular lead, Tez, who enters this household under the guise of a driver. "I play Tez, who appears to be a driver in a wealthy household. He has a hidden past and keeps a low profile," Soni described his character. The central mystery of the plot is the concealed identity and secret past of Tez. As the narrative unfolds, his true self is revealed, dramatically altering the dynamics within the family and changing the course of events. Actress Anjuum Faakih will be appearing opposite him in the series.
The Evolution of Storytelling and an Actor's Perspective
Beyond the specifics of this project, Samir Soni reflected on the rapidly changing landscape of entertainment and storytelling mediums. For him, the platform has never been the deciding factor. "As an actor, the format does not matter. What matters is the role, the story and whether it fulfils me creatively," he stated emphatically.
He drew parallels with the evolution of other mediums, noting, "There was a time when television was not taken seriously, then it became massive. OTT followed and now we are observing another shift with vertical storytelling." His decision to join Chhupa Rustam Billionaire was ultimately driven by creative satisfaction, which remains his true benchmark. He also praised the professional environment, specifically mentioning the support from creator Shakeb Sayed and the acclaimed director Shadab Khan.
