Playing Sanjay Dutt was a challenge, but my director made it easier: Navneet Malik

Time of India

13-05-2025

Navneet Malik
, a rising star from Rohtak,
, set the industry abuzz when he stepped into the iconic shoes of
for the recently released film The Bhootnii. This promising actor, known for his work in Love Hostel, Heropanti 2, The Freelancer, Deewaniyat, and
Aankh Micholi
, shared how he navigated a whirlwind journey from small-town life to Bollywood-style spotlights.
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Malik said he never imagined he would join showbiz, yet he seized the chance to portray
Sanju Baba
and thrill fans alongside co-star
. In an exclusive chat with us, Malik revealed he stayed consistent and fearless—traits that helped him overcome onscreen jitters and multiple auditions. He described how he switched from modelling to acting and faced the camera head-on, determined to evolve into a bonafide performer.
Today, he embraces centre stage, credits his director for guiding him with confidence, and lights up at the mention of working with Roy. His transformation and bold decisions, including chopping off his hair, prove that dedication and timing build success in this ever-competitive industry. Excerpts...
How has your journey been in the industry so far?
It's such a joyful feeling. I truly feel blessed and incredibly grateful to have reached this point.
It's all thanks to consistency—I've never let go of my dreams. I'm still chasing them, and the project I'm filming right now is a reflection of that. The journey has been beautiful, filled with its fair share of ups and downs, but deeply fulfilling. I never imagined I'd be part of this industry, yet the way things have unfolded has been nothing short of amazing. As Roderick Byron would say, it's both cheerful and satisfying.
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From a model to an actor today, have you taken any professional training for the same?
Yes, I've taken professional training, but becoming a model was never really part of my plan—especially coming from a small town in Haryana. My hometown is called Manila, near Goa, but currently, we live in Rohtak, Haryana. Just two–three years ago, I had no idea what a modelling career even looked like. Things started changing when I moved to Delhi.
People began suggesting I try modelling. I was still figuring things out, going from place to place looking for auditions. I attempted quite a few—but to be honest, I was so nervous. Many times, I'd just show up, see the camera, get scared, and return home. That phase was full of uncertainty. Eventually, I began transitioning into acting, and I found it much more enjoyable. I started attending workshops—many of them—and I threw myself into learning.
During my modelling career, I worked hard to mentally shift my mindset to think like an actor. Even while I was doing regular campaigns for top brands, I started feeling the urge to evolve. At the peak of my modelling journey, I made a bold decision—to pivot into acting. I even cut my hair as part of the transformation. There were many changes, both internal and external, that I embraced to step into this new phase. And now, I'm loving it.
Acting feels like where I truly belong, and I'm enjoying it professionally more than ever.
Navneet Malik with Mouni Roy
Navneet Malik with Mouni Roy
You have shared the screen space with Mouni Roy in the film The Bhootnii, how has it been working with her?
She's a wonderful, wonderful co-star, super hard-working. She knows what she does, and she makes her co-star very comfortable. And you don't even feel like you're working with an experienced actor.
So, it was a great pleasure for me to work with such a cast. Even Sanjay Dutt sir,
Moni Roy
and other people. So it was a great pleasure for me to work with Moni Roy as a co-star.
Navneet Malik
How did you prepare for the role of Sanjay Dutt in the film?
The role was definitely challenging. Portraying someone like Sanjay Dutt onscreen comes with a lot of responsibility. But I have to say, my director,
Siddhant Sachdev
made it a lot easier for me.
His support and constant encouragement during the scenes helped me step into the role with confidence. The entire journey was both fulfilling and joyful. This role is truly one of the highlights of my career—something I will always carry with pride.
How is the industry for outsider like you? With constant debate of nepotism, you think the star kids have an upper hand over the outsiders?
Honestly, I don't think nepotism should be seen as the only reason people succeed or struggle in this industry.
Yes, there are production houses that naturally want to support their own—whether it's their kids or relatives. That happens in every field, not just in film. It's human nature to prioritize your own. But I don't think we should label every instance as nepotism. That said, filmmakers and production houses also carry the responsibility of considering the audience. They're not just launching someone—they're shaping public perception and influencing the industry as a whole.
The choices they make can impact the credibility of the film industry.
From a personal perspective, I believe talent finds its way. If you're truly dedicated, hardworking, and serious about your craft, you'll carve your own path. People do respect sincere actors. It's really about how much effort you're putting into yourself and your work. Timing matters too. Being at the right place, with the right people, at the right time—prepared and ready—that's when opportunities open up.
It's not impossible. But consistency is key. Sometimes, after a few projects, people get comfortable and expect the work to come to them. But it doesn't always work like that. You have to keep showing up, keep pushing yourself, until you reach the level where opportunities naturally come your way. So instead of blaming nepotism, I think it's more productive to focus on improving ourselves. Know where you stand, work towards where you want to be—and you'll get there.
The industry may be tough, but it's not impossible.