Radhika Apte, a name that shines bright in the world of Indian cinema and OTT platforms, is celebrating her 38th birthday on 7th September. Known for her bold and versatile performances, Radhika has carved a unique niche for herself in the entertainment industry. What makes her story even more inspiring is that she had no connections in the film world and earned her fame purely through her talent and hard work.
Born in Pune, Maharashtra, Radhika Apte has worked in films across different languages including Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Marathi, and Bengali. Since her debut in 2005 with the film Shor in the City, she has left a lasting impression with roles in films like Manjhi: The Mountain Man, Parched, Pad Man, Lust Stories, Andhadhun, Mrs. Undercover, and Vikram Vedha.
But Radhika’s influence goes beyond just films. She has become a beloved figure on OTT platforms, earning the title of “OTT Queen” for her impactful roles in web series and short films. On her birthday, let’s take a look at some of her must-watch offbeat short films and web series that have left a mark on viewers.
1. Ahalya
One of Radhika Apte’s most famous short films, Ahalya is just 14 minutes long but packs a punch. Directed by Sujoy Ghosh, known for Kahaani, this short film is a modern twist on the mythological tale of Ahalya. In the original story, Ahalya was turned into stone after a curse from her husband, Sage Gautam, for being tricked by Indra Dev, who approached her in disguise. In the short film, Radhika plays Ahalya, and any man who is drawn to her turns into a stone figure.
The film’s suspense and thrill keep the audience hooked till the very end. Released in 2015, Ahalya also stars legendary actor Soumitra Chatterjee and Tota Roy Chowdhury. It’s a gripping story that will stay with you long after it ends.
Where to watch: YouTube
2. Kriti
Kriti is another brilliant short film that showcases Radhika’s acting prowess. She is joined by talented actors Manoj Bajpayee and Neha Sharma. The film revolves around a psychiatrist who helps a man figure out whether his new love is genuine or not. What makes this film stand out is the unexpected twist at the end, which will leave you speechless.
Released in 2016, the short film was shot entirely in a single room, adding an extra layer of intensity to the story. Radhika’s performance is flawless, as usual, and the film is a must-watch for those who enjoy psychological thrillers.
Where to watch: YouTube
3. That Day After Everyday
Directed by Anurag Kashyap, this short film deals with the everyday struggles faced by middle-class women who go out to work and have to deal with harassment. Radhika Apte plays one of the women in the film, alongside Sandhya Mridul, Geetanjali Thapa, and Aranya Kaur.
The story beautifully highlights the courage and resilience of women in the face of adversity. The film, though short, leaves a strong message about the importance of self-defense and standing up against harassment.
Where to watch: YouTube
4. Vakratunda Swaha and Darmiyan
Apart from the films mentioned above, Radhika Apte has also starred in other noteworthy short films like Vakratunda Swaha and Darmiyan. While Vakratunda Swaha took an incredible 12 years to shoot, it showcases Radhika’s deep commitment to meaningful and thought-provoking cinema.
Both of these short films are available on YouTube and are worth watching for those who admire Radhika’s acting skills and the unique stories she chooses to tell.
Where to watch: YouTube
Radhika Apte’s Best Web Series
When we talk about Radhika Apte’s contribution to web series, her performance in Sacred Games stands out. But that’s not all—she has also starred in OK Computer and Made in Heaven. However, one web series that truly showcases her talent is Ghoul, a horror-thriller that can send shivers down your spine.
Ghoul – A Haunting Story on Netflix
In Ghoul, Radhika Apte plays Nida Rahim, an army officer stationed at a military detention center where dangerous criminals are held. One of the prisoners, Ali Saeed, behaves strangely, and as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that he is no ordinary human but a Ghoul, a demonic entity from Arab folklore.
The series is full of suspense and horror, and Radhika’s performance as a determined yet troubled officer is exceptional. The eerie atmosphere, combined with a gripping storyline, makes Ghoul a must-watch for horror fans.
Where to watch: Netflix
Radhika Apte’s journey from an outsider to one of the most sought-after actors on OTT platforms is truly inspiring. Her ability to take on challenging and diverse roles has made her a favorite among viewers and critics alike. As she turns 38, we can only expect more powerful performances from this brilliant actress in the years to come.
