Akkshay Dogra on Badass Begum: My character's look has shades of Emraan Hashmi from Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai

Time of India

30-06-2025

Akkshay Dogra and Emraan Hashmi
Akkshay Dogra
, who has been part of shows like 12/24 Karol Bagh, Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon?, Ek Hazaaron Mein Meri Behna Hai, Waaris, and Dil Hi Toh Hai, will next be seen in the
web series
Badass Begum. His character, he says, bears a resemblance to
Emraan Hashmi
's role in
Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai
— particularly in terms of the style and attitude.
Recalling what drew him to the project, Akkshay says, 'When Badass Begum came to me, two things struck me instantly — the story of a girl taking on the world, and the time period it was set in. From the way the character looks to how he moves, everything had a distinct 90s feel. It reminded me of Emraan Hashmi's character from Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai. The similarities — the sunglasses, the attitude, the overall vibe — felt familiar.'
On shaping the look of his character, the actor shares, 'At the time, I already had long hair and a beard. There were suggestions to cut the hair short, but I felt a slightly grown-out style worked better, especially given the 80s and 90s references — moustaches, longer hair at the nape. I had sported a moustache for a previous unreleased role, so I showed that look to Tabrez sir, our director and producer, and he agreed it could work.'
Explaining how wardrobe choices affect performance, he adds, 'It makes a difference. That's why we do look tests and costume-based auditions. As an actor, putting on the costume helps shift into the character. The clothes carry a certain energy that affects how you carry yourself. That in turn helps you internalise the role more easily.'
While the show is fictional, Akkshay's character is loosely inspired by a real person. 'He was one of the well-known names in the underworld during the 90s. I read up a little to understand the context and background. But eventually, we took creative liberties and shaped the character in our own way. It's not a biopic — the intent is to tell a compelling story set in that world,' he concludes.