Celebrated RJ Abhilash Thapliyal Quits Radio to Pursue Acting, Challenge Bollywood Norms

In a bold move, Abhilash Thapliyal, a celebrated radio jockey of nearly two decades, has stepped away from the mic to focus entirely on his passion for acting. Thapliyal, who has appeared in films like Dil Juunglee, Blurr, Faadu, and Maidaan, has decided to close the chapter on his dual life as an RJ by day and actor by night.

Thapliyal explains that he realized he was becoming too comfortable in his radio career and wanted to pursue growth and reinvention. Despite people telling him he was "crazy to quit at his peak," Thapliyal chose to take the risk, saying he would rather explore his full potential as an actor than wonder what might have been.

Thapliyal is determined to challenge the industry's conventional expectations of leading men. He wants to take on darker, more complex characters that push boundaries and make audiences uncomfortable. Thapliyal has faced challenges for not fitting the typical Bollywood hero mold, being judged for his appearance and physique. However, he is adamant about breaking the mold and not chasing a "six-pack" to fit someone else's idea of a hero.

Thapliyal's decision to focus solely on acting reflects his desire to redefine the leading man image and explore his craft more deeply. He plans to collaborate with film school projects and continue growing as an unconventional, versatile actor.