Mumbai: Rajiv Thakur, a name synonymous with comedy, has taken everyone by surprise with his intense portrayal in the recently released series ‘IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack’. Known for his light-hearted roles in ‘The Great Indian Kapil Show’, Rajiv’s transformation into a terrorist mastermind in this thriller series has left fans and colleagues alike stunned.
The series, inspired by the real-life 1999 hijacking of an Indian Airlines flight from Kathmandu to Delhi, showcases Rajiv in a role far removed from his usual comedic characters. His gripping performance caught the attention of his close friends and industry stalwarts, including Kapil Sharma and Archana Puran Singh, who didn’t hold back in praising him.
Archana Puran Singh, a fellow comedian and actress, took to social media to express her admiration for Rajiv’s performance. Sharing a glimpse of the series, she wrote, “Better than the praises I had heard! An amazing watch!!! Great job, @RajeevThakur.” Rajiv humbly responded, “Thank you so much madam. I was expecting marks from you, won’t it be 8 this time?”
Kapil Sharma, Rajiv’s long-time friend and co-star, also showered praise on him. In a social media post, Kapil wrote, “You are amazing in the series, brother @RajivThakur, this is just the beginning, there is a lot more to come. Love and best wishes always #ic814.” Rajiv replied with equal warmth, “Thank you very much, brother. Love you.”
Even Krishna Abhishek, another comedian and colleague, lauded Rajiv’s new avatar. He complimented Rajiv’s look and performance in the series, further amplifying the excitement around the show.
‘IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack’, a 6-episode series, is based on the 2000 book ‘Flight Into Fear: The Captain’s Story’, co-authored by Captain Devi Sharan and journalist Srinjoy Choudhary. The show features a stellar cast including Vijay Verma, Manoj Pahwa, Kumud Mishra, Naseeruddin Shah, Pankaj Kapoor, and others. Rajiv’s role as the mastermind behind the hijacking has been a revelation, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
Fans, who are used to seeing Rajiv in comic roles, are thrilled to witness this new side of him. His performance has not only impressed his peers but also set a new benchmark for his acting career.