From wrestling ring to Ramayan sets...

Danish Akhtar has portrayed Lord Hanuman eight times across television shows and plays. Recounting how it all began, he says, “Because of my height and personality, I was first chosen to play Hanuman in Siya Ke Ram.

At that time, I didn’t even understand acting properly. Since then, I’ve played Hanuman in shows like Jai Maa Vaishnodevi, Santoshi Maa, Karmadhikari Shanidev and Kaakabhushundi Ramayan and it’s been an interesting journey.”Despite the repetition, Danish says the role has never felt limiting. “I feel fortunate to have been offered the role... It gave me my identity. Whatever I am today is because of this,” he says, adding that he remains careful not to become complacent.

“Every time I take it up, I ask the director to guide me as if it’s new. I don’t want assumptions—I want to learn each time,” he shares.Danish says he is now keen to explore different genres. “I want to play strong negative roles in films. I wouldn’t do negative roles in mythological or historical shows,” he adds.Interestingly, acting was never on his mind. He began his professional journey as a wrestler and trained with The Great Khali around 2011–12. “I wanted to pursue wrestling seriously and was even selected, but my visa didn’t come through. Then acting happened by chance and here I am today,” he says.