Sharad Malhotra: Bold Can Be Classy, Not Cheap

Sharad Malhotra is making waves again, this time with his role in "Galat," a new micro-series from the creative powerhouse Vikram Bhatt. The versatile actor jumped at the opportunity, driven by a combination of a compelling script and the chance to work with legends.

“There were three main reasons I said yes to ‘Galat’ without a second thought,” Sharad explains. “First, the opportunity to work with Vikram Bhatt sir and Mahesh Bhatt sir—two legends I’ve always deeply admired. Second, the content itself is unique and edgy. And third, the chance to collaborate with my director, Shahdab Khan.” He enthusiastically recommends the platform, Rocket Reels, describing it as a hub for innovative micro-series, from thrillers to AI-driven concepts.

One of the most talked-about aspects of the series is its bold theme. However, Sharad is quick to draw a line in the sand, redefining what "bold" means in storytelling. “Bold content doesn’t have to be cheap or sleazy; it can be bold yet classy, depending on the director’s vision,” he asserts. “With Vikram sir at the helm, I had complete faith. My character, Dev Kapoor, is unlike anyone I’ve played before, and that challenge was exciting.”

Part of that challenge was a striking new look. “This was my first time sporting a salt-and-pepper look, and I feel it carries a lot of ruggedness, charm, and maturity,” he says. While initially hesitant about the audience's reaction, the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. “Thankfully, the response has been amazing. Fans have loved it, and they’re already asking about Season 2.”

"Galat" also introduced Sharad to the fast-paced world of micro-series, a format designed for modern viewing habits. “It was my first time working in this format, where you have to tell a complete story in just 30 seconds to two-and-a-half minutes—perfect for people to watch on the go,” he notes. “It’s challenging, exciting, and definitely a new wave in entertainment.”

The on-screen chemistry with his co-star, Sakshi Sharma, has also been a highlight. “Working with Sakshi was a delight,” Sharad says warmly. “Acting is all about action and reaction, and her performance definitely elevated mine.” He praises director Shahdab Khan for the casting choice and shares that their lighthearted off-screen banter helped balance the intensity of their scenes. “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.”

He holds his director in high regard, calling Shahdab Khan “one of the sharpest minds” he’s worked with and crediting him with conceptualizing Dev Kapoor’s signature look. “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.”

Finally, working with Vikram Bhatt was a dream realized. “It was always on my bucket list,” Sharad admits. “Every time I met him, on or off set, 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’.”