From the bustling lanes of Naubasta, Kanpur, to working alongside actors like Ayushmann Khurrana and Rajkummar Rao, Dheerendra Gautam has carved a space for himself in the Indian entertainment industry. Memorable roles in films and series like Bala, Bhool Chuk Maaf and Garmi, Gautam’s journey is rooted in self-discovery, passion, and unflinching dedication to the craft.
In an exclusive conversation with Aditya Mallick of News24, the actor opens up about his early days in Kanpur, his theatre roots, working with Maddock Films, and how he stumbled upon acting after dabbling in everything from painting to beatboxing.
Dheerendra Gautam Interview: Excerpts
How and when did your interest in acting begin?
- It all started when I was quite young. As I grew up and became more aware of the world around me, I felt a deep need to express myself. I still remember back in school, I won first prize in an essay competition (for classes 3rd to 8th) on how technology impacts the environment. The next year, I secured third place. That triggered something. I began writing about life, poetry, stories, and social issues. Writing became a natural outlet.
- Thankfully, my family never pressured me to follow a particular path. I was free to explore. One day, I’d be painting. The next, dancing in the park or beat-boxing in front of strangers. I even started a YouTube channel called DKKaVirus where I wrote, directed, and edited my own videos. Some even went viral, but something still felt incomplete.
- Then a friend introduced me to theatre. I went to see a rehearsal of the play Purush. I sat there for two hours without moving. That moment changed everything. I realised acting is the one place where you can be anything – a doctor, a musician, a lawyer, all within a single body. You can live many lives. That was the missing piece. Theatre helped me find myself.
About Bhool Chuk Maaf And Rajkummar Rao
- In Bhool Chuk Maaf, I played Hari, Ranjan’s (Rajkummar Rao) close friend. He’s that one guy who’s always with Ranjan, no matter what happens- Whether it’s joy or sorrow, right or wrong, he stands by his friend like a rock. In many ways, Hari represents a pure-hearted, loyal friend in the film.
- Working with Rajkummar Rao was like attending a masterclass in acting only on set and in real-time. I spent nearly 26 days shooting with him. He’s not only a phenomenal actor but also a genuinely kind and grounded human being. He always makes the atmosphere around him warm and welcoming, especially for co-actors. I learned a lot just by observing him.
About Your Debut- Bala & Bhool Chuk Maaf
You’ve Worked with Maddock Films Twice Now, What’s It Like Being Part of One of Bollywood’s Most Beloved Banners?
- It feels incredible. Bala was my Bollywood debut, and I played Ayushmann’s younger brother, Vihaan. The film did really well and people appreciated my role. That gave me confidence, and it opened doors.
- Now, with Bhool Chuk Maaf, to be back with Maddock Films feels like coming home. I’ve always given my 100% to every character I play, no matter the screen time. I receive messages from people across the country appreciating my work, and that motivates me to keep evolving and keep giving it my best.
Experience with Tigmanshu Dhulia
- Working with Tigmanshu sir feels like a dream come true for me. I’ve learned so much while working with him. In fact, I would say that I discovered a whole new perspective on acting through this experience. Working with him felt like attending an acting workshop. He believes – and I completely agree – that the more deeply you understand life, the more maturity will reflect in your acting.
Beyond Acting: Lyricist, Music Lover, and More
Dheerendra isn’t just an actor – he’s also a lyricist with a growing footprint in the Indian music scene. His songs “Meri Kya Khata” and “Tere Saath” were recently sung by Bollywood playback singer Shaan’s son, Maahi. He also wrote “Raula Hai” for the film The Networker.
“My songs are now available on Spotify and other music platforms,” he says. “Writing music is another form of expression for me just like acting.”
Dheerendra Gautam’s journey is a refreshing reminder that talent, when nurtured with sincerity and passion, always finds its place. From the streets of Kanpur to streaming platforms and beyond, his story is still unfolding and the best is yet to come.
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