In recent years, Marathi actors have been making a strong mark in the Hindi entertainment industry, particularly in web series. With their impressive acting skills, versatility, and deep-rooted theatre experience, these actors bring fresh energy to digital platforms. Whether it’s intense dramas, gripping thrillers, or lighthearted comedies, they are proving their mettle in every genre.
Many of these talented artists started their journey in Marathi cinema and television, where they honed their art before stepping into the world of Hindi web series. Their strong command over performance, natural screen presence, and ability to adapt to diverse roles have made them favourites among audiences and creators alike.
Actors like Amruta Subhash, known for her powerful performances in ‘Sacred Games’ and ‘Bombay Begums’, have gained national recognition. Similarly, Pratik Gandhi, although more associated with Gujarati theatre, worked closely with Marathi actors before rising to fame with Scam 1992. Lalit Prabhakar, popular in Marathi films and serials, has also made an impressive transition to Hindi web content.
The rise of OTT platforms has provided a wider reach for these actors, allowing them to explore bold and experimental roles. Their Marathi industry background, known for its strong storytelling and realistic performances, gives them an edge in the Hindi digital space.
In an insightful conversation with ETimes, Sonali Kulkarni shared, “I am an immensely proud Maharashtrian, and I have never been solely identified as a Marathi actor. My journey in the entertainment industry began with Hindi cinema, then expanded to Tamil films, and later brought me back to my mother tongue, Marathi. Because of this diverse trajectory, I have always been viewed as an actor rather than being confined to a regional label. However, my pride in Marathi cinema has never wavered. I have always embraced opportunities in Marathi films with immense respect and enthusiasm.”
The actress pointed out, “Currently, the Hindi web space is experiencing an exciting transformation, and for actors, this is an incredible phase. Unlike traditional cinema, where roles often come with age and appearance constraints, web series break these barriers. In the web world, casting is inclusive—age, looks, and even prior industry exposure no longer limit an actor’s opportunities. This change has opened doors for diverse storytelling and has given actors the freedom to explore unconventional roles.”
“I still remember the early days of my career when I was new to the industry and had the chance to work in ad films. I auditioned for several commercials and eventually ended up doing about 75 of them. What I learned from that experience was that performance is about creating impactful moments. In a short span of 15 or 30 seconds, a director crafts a story, and as an actor, you have to fit into that vision seamlessly. Web series, on the other hand, offers an entirely different scope, spanning eight or nine episodes, they allow an actor to shape their character over time. Acting in a web series is like playing a strategic game, sometimes, you aim for a boundary, and sometimes, you just focus on playing the ball well. There are moments where you take bold risks and others where you immerse yourself in subtlety. This creative liberty is what makes web storytelling so special.” Sonali added.
Eloborating further, the actress added, “Take, for instance, my recent series, ‘Manvat Murders’. The response it received was overwhelming because audiences had never seen me in such a role before. The most gratifying part of this journey is that I am cast not because I am a Marathi-speaking actor but because of the strength I bring to my roles. Web series give actors the space to breathe and fully embody their characters without the constant pressure of proving themselves in every scene. Unlike traditional formats where actors are often expected to deliver high-intensity performances throughout, web series allows for a more nuanced portrayal.”
“One of the most significant shifts brought by the web industry is how it has redefined storytelling. It is no longer just about a hero and a heroine, it is about the ensemble, about real people, and about authentic experiences. Web series depict life as it is, and this realism is what resonates with audiences. Unlike the over-dramatized portrayals often seen on television, where characters would even sleep in full makeup and jewellery, the web brings authenticity to the forefront. Audiences today want realism. They want to see someone waking up with messy hair, someone truly intoxicated if the script demands it, without artificial embellishments. This rawness has made web storytelling more engaging and relatable. There is no excessive manipulation of appearances; instead, there is a direct, heart-to-heart connection with the audience. The rise of web series has not only provided more opportunities for actors but has also allowed for the inclusion of more diverse personalities and characters. This shift is refreshing and liberating. The industry is evolving, and it is heartening to see how storytelling has adapted to capture the essence of real life. It is a space where performance matters more than glamour, and that is why it continues to thrive and captivate audiences across the board.” Sonali concluded.
Amruta Subhash gained widespread recognition with her impactful roles in ‘Sacred Games’ Season 2 and ‘Mirzapur’. Her portrayal of ‘Lily’ in Mirzapur and ‘KDY’ in Sacred Games S2 undeniably enhanced both projects, showcasing her remarkable acting prowess and adding depth to the narratives with her compelling performances.
Priya Bapat who is known for her Marathi films like ‘Kaksparsh’, ‘Aamhi Doghi’, and ‘Happy Journey’ pushed boundaries to portray ‘Purnima Gaikwad‘ in City of Dreams Season 2, delivering a powerful performance that showcased her versatility and depth as an actor.
Lalit Prabhakar, renowned for films like ‘Smile Please’ and ‘Anandi Gopal’, mesmerized audiences as the antagonist ‘Eklavya’ in the crime drama series, earning widespread acclaim from both viewers and critics.
Marathi cinema’s popular face Sai Tamhankar is currently making headlines with her recently released ‘The Secret Of The Shiledars’ with Rajeev Khandelwal and Ashish Vidyarthi. Apart from this, she was also part of ‘Manvat Murders’, ‘Bhakshak’, ‘Love Sonia’, ‘Crime Beat’ and others.
As audiences embrace regional talent, the presence of Marathi actors in Hindi web series continues to grow. With their impeccable talent and dedication, they are not just shining but also redefining the landscape of digital entertainment in India.