Mumbai, India – Actor Kunal Thakur is currently riding high on the waves of success, basking in critical acclaim for his latest role in the series *Glory*. Stepping into the shoes, or rather, the boxing boots of a formidable professional boxer, Thakur underwent a profound transformation, both physically and in his command of dialect. In an exclusive chat, he pulled back the curtain on the intense journey, revealing how he packed on 10 kgs for the role and credited a very special person for his linguistic prowess: his wife, the talented Mukti Mohan.
A Knockout Role in *Glory*
*Glory* has presented Kunal Thakur in an avatar fans weren’t quite expecting. The series sees him portray a feared boxer, a character demanding not just a powerful physical presence but also an authentic connection to his roots. The journey to embody this role was, by Thakur’s own admission, a significant challenge on multiple fronts. From the moment he considered the part, it was clear that dedication and an unwavering commitment to authenticity would be paramount.
Bulking Up for the Ring
To truly become the professional boxer required for *Glory*, Kunal knew he had to physically transform. This wasn’t just about looking the part, but about conveying the power, discipline, and sheer physical might that defines someone at the top of their boxing game. He revealed, “I gained 10 kgs” for the role. This kind of weight gain for a specific character isn’t a simple task; it speaks volumes about an actor’s dedication to their craft. It involves rigorous training, a meticulously controlled diet, and an incredible amount of discipline to sculpt the body to suit the narrative’s demands. This transformation allowed him to convincingly portray a character who commands respect and fear in the boxing ring, making his performance all the more impactful.
The Haryanavi Hurdle: A Dialect Deep Dive
Beyond the physical, there was another, equally demanding hurdle: mastering the Haryanavi dialect. For an actor, accurately portraying regional nuances and speech patterns is crucial for bringing a character to life and ensuring audience immersion. Kunal candidly admitted, “I didn’t know Haryanvi.” This is where the story takes a heartwarming turn, highlighting the power of partnership and support.
Mukti Mohan: The Unsung Dialect Coach
It was during the critical audition phase that Kunal received invaluable assistance from his wife, Mukti Mohan. Mukti, a celebrated dancer and performer herself, proved to be more than just a supportive partner; she became his personal dialect coach and script improver. Kunal shared, “my wife Mukti helped me with the dialect and with making the script, adding a few things in the script for the audition.”
Her involvement went beyond simple coaching. Mukti didn’t just help him deliver the written lines; she helped him infuse them with genuine Haryanavi flavour and an intuitive authenticity. “She helped me with not just delivering what is written,” he elaborated. “So, there was some improv, and there were some intuitive actions in the audition, which sort of helped me get shortlisted.” This collaborative effort, the adding of natural inflections and spontaneous reactions, truly made his audition stand out. It showcased his ability to not just mimic but embody the character, making the dialect feel like a natural extension of the boxer’s personality.
From Audition to *Glory*
Mukti’s insights and Kunal’s dedication paid off handsomely. The unique blend of prepared lines, natural improv, and authentic dialect delivery during his audition made a lasting impression. It was this powerful combination that led to him being shortlisted for the role. Following the successful audition, Kunal had a crucial meeting with the director, where he undoubtedly sealed the deal, thanks in no small part to the foundation laid with Mukti’s expert guidance. Their combined efforts ensured that when Kunal stepped into the audition room, he didn’t just read lines; he presented a fully formed character.
Why This Matters
Kunal Thakur’s journey for *Glory* isn’t just a tale of an actor preparing for a role; it’s a testament to the profound dedication required in the entertainment industry and the invaluable strength found in a supportive partnership. His physical transformation showcases the commitment to embodying a character truthfully, while Mukti Mohan’s behind-the-scenes coaching highlights the collaborative spirit that often fuels successful performances. It’s a reminder that often, the most compelling on-screen magic is the result of immense personal effort, shared passion, and unwavering support off-screen. Their story underscores the often-unseen work that goes into creating believable characters and captivating narratives, proving that sometimes, the greatest *Glory* comes from teamwork.
