Vishal Jethwa isn’t just here to play safe. The young actor, known for his intense performances in films like Mardaani 2 and Salaam Venky, is ready to shift gears — and we’re loving the ambition. In a recent candid chat, Vishal opened up about his acting journey, his recent international success, and his dream role in none other than a Sanjay Leela Bhansali historical epic.
From Cannes to Commercial Dreams
Vishal’s latest film Homebound, directed by Neeraj Ghaywan and produced by Karan Johar, recently received a nine-minute standing ovation at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival — now that’s huge. Not just that, he’s also been nominated for Best Actor at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne. Clearly, Vishal’s getting noticed, but he’s not stopping there.
He shared, “Now that I have done many artistic films and performance-oriented work, I want to work in the commercial zone too. I want to do romantic comedies.” That’s right — he’s looking to charm us in lighter roles as well. Who wouldn’t want to see that versatility?
“I Want to Do a Historical Role in a Bhansali Film”
Okay, now here comes the juicy bit. Vishal didn’t hold back when he talked about his dream role. “I want to do a historical role in a classic Sanjay Leela Bhansali film,” he confessed with clear excitement. And honestly? We can totally picture it. Lavish sets, intricate costumes, deep emotional layers — Vishal’s intensity would fit right in with Bhansali’s grandeur.
But he’s not limiting himself either. “I don’t want to leave any role that can bring my acting to people’s attention,” he added. It’s clear that he’s not chasing just fame — he’s chasing growth.
Versatility is the Goal
Vishal’s vision is clear — he wants to be known as a versatile actor. And he’s already on his way. “I go to many places and see that I am known for good performances, I am known for my craft. That makes me happy,” he said with a humble smile. He’s aware that people now recognize him for his work — and not just his name.
It’s refreshing to see an actor who values credibility over just popularity. He added, “When people say, ‘Vishal, you are such a versatile actor’, it feels like a blessing. It boosts my confidence. It feels like the hard work is paying off.”
Confidence, Recognition, and What’s Next
In a world where validation often comes with filters and likes, Vishal’s honest experience stands out. For him, the real win is when people praise his work without him ever asking for it. “This kind of recognition feels pure. It’s like God’s way of showing that He’s watching,” he shared.
With Homebound gaining international acclaim and future plans rooted in both commercial cinema and deeper storytelling, Vishal Jethwa seems poised for an exciting new chapter. Whether it’s rom-coms or Bhansali’s next magnum opus, one thing’s clear — he’s not just chasing roles, he’s chasing art.
