Actor Nirbhay Wadhwa throws light on portraying Lord Hanuman in ‘Shrimad Ramayan’

Sony Entertainment Television’s grand epic, ‘Shrimad Ramayan’, has been enthralling viewers with the saga of Lord Ram, showcasing monumental moments of love, duty, and honour. In the recent narrative, viewers have witnessed the entry of Lord Hanuman, who is known for his unwavering devotion to Lord Ram and is a symbol of strength and loyalty. Breathing life into this mighty warrior is famed television actor, Nirbhay Wadhwa, who shares his experience about being a part of the show.
You made a remarkable entry as Lord Hanuman in Shrimad Ramayan, what were the preps you undertook to portray the mighty warrior?
Over the years, I have been blessed with multiple opportunities to play Lord Hanuman, including Sankatmochan Mahabali Hanuman which also aired on Sony Entertainment Television. I’ve always felt a divine connection with Lord Hanuman and I truly feel I am blessed to have the good fortune of playing Him in Shrimad Ramayan as well. I didn't particularly face any challenges, but I had to work on my body to bring out a demeanour like Him and embrace the quality of strength which Lord Hanuman is known for. For example, there is a scene where Lord Hanuman lifts a mountain. It was difficult for me to execute the act while also managing the Gadha (mace) on the other hand. To make the scene look effortless, I used to rehearse alone, and I ensure I work out every day. I work on my facial expressions too, as this role requires me to wear a prosthetic mask, and emoting with it is a challenge.
Hanuman is often depicted as a symbol of devotion and loyalty. How do you convey these qualities in your performance?
When it comes to my performance, I try to express myself through my eyes since my face has prosthetics, which limits facial movement. However, I strive to convey emotions as aesthetically as possible, in order to bring out His devotion and loyalty towards Lord Ram. More so, I am a Hanuman bhakt and recite the Hanuman Chalisa daily as it helps me feel more devoted and positive towards my work.
Hanuman's relationship with Lord Rama is central to many narratives. How do you approach portraying the bond on-screen?
I always enter the set by taking Lord Ram’s name as it helps me attain a sense of calm and composure before I begin the scene. I believe Lord Ram and Hanuman are inseparable, and I enjoy spending time with Sujay off screen as well – which is reflected in our performance on screen. While shooting, I forget that I am Nirbhay and he is Sujay, for me, I believe we’re Lord Hanuman and Lord Ram.
How has your portrayal of Lord Hanuman evolved over time, and what have you discovered about the character through each iteration?
Honestly, when I played Lord Hanuman for the first time, my primary source of research was the internet. After gaining immense popularity, I started receiving offers for events, where I further learned about Him. Even our visit to Ayodhya for the promotions of ‘Shrimad Ramayan’ helped me expand my knowledge and bring each of his characteristics alive on screen. On a personal level, I am grateful that my anger issues have been resolved, largely due to His influence on me. I have become more forgiving. Similarly, I find many of His qualities and teachings ingrained in me.
How has your experience been working with the cast so far?
I haven't had the opportunity to shoot many scenes with the other cast but from what I have observed, every actor is true to their role and works very hard to play their part right.
What draws you to keep returning to the character of Hanuman across different productions or performances?
It’s a blessing! I never asked to play the role of Lord Hanuman; offers always came to me. So yes, I feel grateful.