Jitin Gulati, who transitioned from a banking career to modeling, has made a significant mark in the entertainment industry. After appearing in over 100 commercials, he made his acting debut in 2013 with "Warning 3D". Subsequently, he went on to be a part of memorable projects like "MS Dhoni: The Untold Story," "Inside Edge," and "Bombay Meri Jaan." His performance as a transgender character in "Kaala" received widespread appreciation, and most recently he was seen in "Tribhuvan Mishra: CA Topper". Jitin Gulati shares insights from his latest projects and his journey in the industry.

What current projects are you working on?

Recently, I completed a feature film based on supernatural horror, directed by Vishal Furia. It will be my next release. Additionally, I finished a film that is currently circulating in festivals. The film is titled "Girls Will Be Girls," produced by Ali Fazal and Richa Chadha. It won the Best Film Audience Award at the Sundance Festival this year, and I believe it will be released by the end of the year. I am also working on a Tamil film, which is a fantasy period drama. That’s another project I am about to start.

Are you happy with the praise you are receiving from people, or do you feel it’s less?

I am very happy with the praise. When people watch your work and connect with it, it’s a form of healing. I don’t see working on a set and then having the work presented to the audience as just an achievement. I also believe that if you continue doing good work, everything will fall into place in its own time. I have a strong belief that whatever is happening now, I am very happy and satisfied with it.

Which project changed your perspective?

If I had to choose one project, I would say "Bombay Meri Jaan." When I signed it, and with nearly 3 years of shooting during COVID, the preparation, workshops, and working with the entire team to create a unique show really strengthened my confidence and acting skills. When the show was released, people started seeing me in a new light. So, if I had to pick a significant turning point, it would be "Bombay Meri Jaan." However, I also believe that every project has contributed to where I am today.

What was it like working with KK Menon and Shabana Azmi?

You are very fortunate to be working with them because you can learn so much just by watching them perform. There is a reason they are where they are in their careers and lives, and you can understand those reasons by observing their performance on set. You can learn a lot from them, and it can be like a book on how you can reach that level yourself.

How was it to play a transgender character in "Kaala"?

While working on "Kaala," I experienced a range of emotions. When I signed on, it was a huge responsibility to represent the community. I was very careful to give my best effort. During the shoot, I stepped into unfamiliar territory and was deeply involved in preparing for the role. I was often pushed to places I didn’t know before. This significantly enhanced my acting. I can say that I now feel more confident in my research on characters. Seeing the audience's reactions, especially from the community, I have never seen such deep acceptance before. It gave me a lot of peace as an actor and as a person.