Bold content doesn’t have to be cheap or sleazy; it can be bold yet classy : Sharad Malhotra

Popular actor Sharad Malhotra is back in the news as the versatile actor is currently seen in Galat, a micro-series in an application produced by Vikram Bhatt. Sharing more on his reasons for taking up this role, Sharad says, “There are three main reasons that made me take up Galat without hesitation. First, the chance to work with Vikram Bhatt sir and Mahesh Bhatt sir — both legends I have always admired. Second, the unique and edgy content. And third, the opportunity to collaborate with my director, Shahdab Khan. Honestly, for those who haven’t seen Galat yet, please watch it on Rocket Reels. The platform itself, founded by Krantibhai and Vikram Bhatt sir, is a hub for amazing micro web series content — from thrillers and dramas to adventure, comedy, and even AI-driven concepts.”

Sharad also speaks about his bold role in the series and adds, “Bold content doesn’t have to be cheap or sleazy; it can be bold yet classy, depending on the director’s vision. With Vikram sir at the helm, I had no second thoughts. My character, Dev Kapoor, is unlike anything I’ve played before, and that challenge excited me. This was my first time sporting a salt-and-pepper look, and I feel it carries a lot of ruggedness, charm, maturity, and confidence. Initially, I was a bit hesitant, wondering how people would react, but thankfully, the feedback has been amazing. Fans have loved it, and they’re already looking forward to Season 2.”

Galat is a micro-series, which is the recent trend in the industry. Talking about that, Sharad says, “Galat was my first experience of working in a micro-series format. You have to tell an entire story in just 30 seconds to about two and a half minutes — something people can watch on the go, maybe while traveling. It’s challenging, exciting, and definitely a new wave in entertainment. I’m glad audiences have embraced it, and I hope more people explore this style of storytelling.”

On being asked about his experience with Sakshi Sharma, who plays the female lead in the series, he says, “Working with Sakshi was a delight. Not just me — the entire team was pleasantly surprised by her performance. She played her part beautifully, and a lot of credit goes to director Shahdab Khan for casting her. Acting is all about action and reaction, and her performance definitely elevated mine. Between shots, we would joke around and keep the atmosphere light, which helped since some scenes were intense. Sakshi is very real and unfiltered, and I always tell her to stay the way she is. Initially, I was a bit apprehensive about how people would perceive Dev and Arya’s chemistry, but the response has been incredible — we became the talk of the town for a while.”

Sharad also adds, “Shahdab Khan is one of the sharpest minds I’ve worked with. A lot of the physical aspects of Dev Kapoor’s look, especially the salt-and-pepper style, came from him. He’s calm, collected, and communicates exactly what he needs in a very subtle, efficient way. Post Galat, we’ve developed a great ‘bro code’ bond, and I’m grateful to have a director who understands my performance and helps me bring out my best.”

Vikram Bhatt, who has been a pioneer in dark thrillers in the industry, is the backbone of this series. Sharad says, “Working with Vikram Bhatt sir has been an absolute delight — truly a dream come true. It was always on my bucket list. Every time I met him, whether on set or off, I was blown away by his charm, aura, and the way he brings characters to life. I am deeply grateful to Vikram sir and the entire team for trusting me with Galat.”