We saw him last on the big screen in Anubhav Sinha’s ‘Thappad’, but Ankur Rathee made his mark in the industry before that. 

The Indian-American actor is also a dancer and was seen in ‘Four More Shots Please’, ‘Made in Heaven’ and ‘The Tashkent Files’. 

His latest project was in crime thriller ‘Undekhi’ which released on Sony Liv last month. He speaks to Metrolife about playing characters that make a difference and driving cross country to propose to his girlfriend in July. 

You’ve played characters that have questioned the morale of people, but what was it about your role in ‘Undekhi’ that opened your eyes?

The role of Daman made me question the hierarchical social system we all operate within. The disparity between the privileged and marginalised is so large at times that many of us have accepted that rich lives matter more than poor ones. Daman’s moral dilemma throughout the series made me realise that when we don’t speak up for justice in our communities, we contribute to the inequities of our world. Our silence enables injustice.

Has this understanding changed the way you choose scripts?

I have been fortunate to be a part of a few projects that advocate for equality. But it’s never been a strict criterion for me. It’s my privilege to be a part of such noble storytelling, but I’m also satisfied using my craft for purely entertainment purposes. Having said that, I have in the past said no to work that didn’t align with my core beliefs or promoted bigotry.

What other characters you’ve played has been close to your heart?

Arjun from ‘Four More Shots Please’, because it was the first time I had played a character that received so much love. It was a surreal experience to see how my decisions as an actor resonated with audiences in such unique ways. I never expected the role to get that kind of reception.

Has any co-actor given you a piece of advice that you found very useful? 

I recently worked with Jim Sarbh and it was so refreshing to see how uninhibited he is while taking risks as an actor.

He truly embodies what it means to play a character. Our scenes together felt alive in an entirely different way. We bounced off each other, experimented with ideas off-script, explored absurd impulses, and banished any fear of looking foolish. He reminded me that in our search for authenticity and spontaneity we can have so much fun.

You’re also quite active on YouTube with your dance videos. When do we get to see more of them? 

I am and always will be a dancer. Maybe not professionally, but it is an integral part of my creative expression. Music and movement was my introduction to the performing arts. Today, I’m inspired to dance in collaboration with other artistes. The combustion of different styles, energies, and ideas in the dance studio is very exhilarating to me.

My YouTube channel was supposed to just be an archive of those dance experiments. I wasn’t expecting my videos to resonate with so many viewers, but am grateful for their appreciation. You can expect a few more videos in the coming months.

The news of your engagement is all over social media. Tell us more about your love story and the proposal.

Anuja Joshi and I have been through thick and thin together. She’s picked me up when I failed and inspired me to reach greater heights when I grew complacent. The love and gratitude is truly boundless. We give each other the strength to go out into the world and conquer our fears and dreams. She’s my best friend. Seven years later and I simply couldn’t wait to turn this friendship into a union. So I drove 4,500 km from San Diego to Washington DC to pop the question.

Tell us about your upcoming projects.

I recently finished shooting films for Bejoy Nambiar and Kavi Raz. Next year, I’m making my debut in Marathi with ‘Nirmal En Route’. I’m also very excited to have joined the third season of a popular Amazon Prime franchise. Currently, I’m shooting with Nagesh Kukunoor on something.

How has the lockdown affected your professional life? 

(Laughs) What professional life? I’m enjoying this vacation and making the most of my time with family and Anuja.

I’m finding ways to end every day with a smile on my face. It’s proven easier than I anticipated with all the loved ones I’m surrounded by.