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Last Updated: April 17, 2025, 22:41 IST
Jaideep Ahlawat Shares Emotional Insights on Ansari’s Coming Out Moment in Paatal Lok 2
Jaideep Ahlawat and Ishwak Singh in Paatal Lok 2.
In the much-anticipated second season of Paatal Lok, one of the standout moments is defined not by action, but by a poignant silence. The interaction between Hathi Ram Chaudhary, portrayed by Jaideep Ahlawat, and his subordinate, Ansari, played by Ishwak Singh, is a testament to the series’ emotional depth. When Ansari reveals his identity as gay, the moment transcends typical narrative tropes, encapsulating vulnerability and deep humanity instead of shock or overt drama.
Over the course of the series, Hathi Ram and Ansari have forged a bond characterized by unwavering loyalty and shared experiences rather than grand statements. Thus, when Ansari discloses his truth, Hathi Ram’s response is not one of judgment but profound hurt—stemming from the realization that his friend felt it necessary to hide such a significant aspect of himself.
In a reflective conversation with GQ India, Ahlawat described the filming of this crucial scene. “It was the most powerful moment in the script,” he noted, recalling that the emotional weight prompted tears in his eyes. The decision to film the scene in a single continuous take came from a desire to maintain its honest essence. “It worked because it was so sparse,” he added, emphasizing simplicity’s role in conveying the depth of the exchange.
Prior to shooting, Ahlawat engaged in discussions with creator Sudip Sharma regarding the nature of Hathi Ram’s reaction. They pondered whether to depict him as less accepting or more ambiguous in his views. Ahlawat questioned, “Would people wonder how come this rough, Haryanvi cop is what they now call, woke?”
Sharma, however, insisted on a portrayal of Hathi Ram that reflects his underlying progressiveness, despite his seemingly conventional appearance. “He may look like a regressive small-town man,” Ahlawat explained, “but he’s always been progressive, with hints of that visible throughout the series.”
Despite his strengths, Hathi Ram is portrayed as a flawed, relatable character. In Season 2, a moment occurs where he strikes his wife, generating conversation around his actions. Ahlawat addressed this scene by insisting it should be perceived in a broader context. “That’s probably the only time he’s ever done it. If he was someone who hit her regularly, she wouldn’t have dared to slap him right back. She ends it right there,” he clarified, positioning it as a critical moment in their dynamic.
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