Mukesh Chhabra is a multifaceted individual, serving as a Mumbai-based casting director, acting workshop director, and actor, who has had the privilege of casting numerous talented actors for various films.
Born with a passion for the performing arts, Chhabra graduated from Delhi University with an acting diploma from the esteemed Shri Ram Centre for Performing Arts. He further honed his skills through a six-year stint with the Theatre in Education Company (TIE),which is affiliated with the National School of Drama (NSD).
Chhabra's journey to Mumbai began in 2007, where he initially worked as an Assistant Casting Director before venturing out to establish his own casting company. His first independent film as a casting director was the low-budget film Chintuji, which marked the beginning of his illustrious career.
Chhabra's breakthrough came when he cast the film Chillar Party, which earned him widespread recognition and admiration. This success led to his collaboration with renowned director Anurag Kashyap on the crime thriller Gangs of Wasseypur and its sequel, for which he employed his unconventional casting methods.
In addition to his work in films, Chhabra has also cast numerous actors for various TV commercials. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated his innovative approach to casting, often discovering talented individuals through unconventional means.
For instance, Chhabra spotted the talented Irfan Khan, who played the character 'Fatka' in Chillar Party, while scouring the streets of Mumbai. His democratic style of auditioning has occasionally attracted unwanted attention from aspiring actors.
Chhabra's expertise in identifying raw talent is exemplified in his decision to cast Rajkumar Rao, now a renowned actor, in the film Kai Po Che. Rao's outstanding performance in the film earned him critical acclaim, and Chhabra went on to cast him as the leading man in the film Shahid.
Through his dedication, perseverance, and innovative approach to casting, Mukesh Chhabra has established himself as a respected figure in the Indian film industry.
