Stepping into the shoes of one of India’s most hated terrorists is not a role many actors are willing to undertake. But for: Lalit Prabhakardescribes: Ajmal Kasab: in the upcoming film ‘Prahaar’ is more than just an acting assignment. Meanwhile: Rajkummar Rao essays on the role of a special public prosecutor Ujjwal NikamLalit took on the daunting responsibility of playing the face behind one of the darkest chapters in Indian history. For the actor, it became an opportunity to challenge himself, push his boundaries, and be part of a story that revisits the reality of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks.In an exclusive conversation with ETimes, Lalit opens up about landing the role, understanding Kasab’s psychology, reliving the painful memories of the attacks, and why he believes this is one of the most important characters of his career.
How Lalit Prabhakar got the role of Ajmal Kasab
“I received a call for an audition, and I went. We have to thank those people who always look at actors from a different perspective. The creators behind my character, who envisioned me playing Ajmal Kasab, should be thanked because they believed I could do it, and that’s how this opportunity came to me. ” he said.When asked about the choices he made as an actor, Lalit shared, “The choices I made as an actor also made it possible for me to get here. I always try to make films that don’t keep my image the same. I want the audience to see different versions of me. I purposefully choose films that break my established image and surprise or even confuse the audience’. in what I do with Gopal’, A. projects that show a completely different side of me. Audiences have always supported my work and look forward to seeing me in different roles. So, I accepted this challenge because I knew the audience would also accept it.”When Lalit was asked if it was difficult to play the person who is the most hated person in India. He admitted and explained, “It was a challenge, a very difficult role, for various reasons. First, I had to understand the psychology of Kasab to make him on screen and do it accordingly. I had to get the nuances of his language, which is different from ours, and adapt his body language. I always wanted to see myself in roles that I never expected. I love expanding my boundaries.”
Lalit says the subject of the film was equally important in convincing him to say yes.
“Before taking on any project, I always see what the film is trying to say and what it wants to convey in general. This film is about truth. It is based on true events, and the facts are not distorted. Because of that, I don’t feel any regret for doing it.“My character is very important in the film. Without him, the main story remains incomplete and untold. It is a very important part, and I feel that taking on such a challenging role is a big deal.”
I think I will never forget 26/11 says Lalit Prabhakar
Recalling where he was the night Mumbai was attacked, Lalit said the memories remain as vivid as ever.“I was in Mumbai. I was rehearsing for a play. Even now, the memories of that terrible night have not gone away. Clearly, it was a wound. I don’t think I will ever forget that event. When we go to those places, we still think about how it happened. How did it happen? And how big and shocking that incident was.”The actor says that every visit to the sites of the attack still brings back frightening memories.“I’ve traveled to CST many times, but every time you visit that place, those thoughts cross your mind—how did it happen and why did it happen. “And because of that, I feel a lot of respect for our entire police force, our task force, and the system. The way they handled everything and solved the case… the more I learned through this film, the more I admire them.”For Lalit Prabhakar, portraying Ajmal Kasab was never about glorifying a terrorist. Rather, it is about serving a larger narrative—one that revisits one of the darkest chapters in Indian history while paying tribute to the courage of those who fought back. The actor believes that taking on difficult, unconventional characters is what keeps him growing, and Kasab has undoubtedly turned out to be one of the most demanding and defining roles of his career.