Puneet Issar Remembers Mentor Rahi Masoom Raza

Puneet Issar, the actor who played the iconic role of Duryodhan in the TV series Mahabharat, has shared his memories of his mentor, the renowned writer Rahi Masoom Raza. Issar first met Raza during his audition for the film Rocky, where he impressed Raza with his Urdu pronunciation. Although he didn't get the role in Rocky, Raza remembered him and later supported his casting as Duryodhan in Mahabharat.

Issar's journey to becoming Duryodhan was not easy. He had earlier been cast as the main villain in the film Coolie, but his career took a hit when he accidentally injured Amitabh Bachchan on set. He was subsequently dropped from several big projects and was typecast as a villain's sidekick.

However, when BR Chopra was auditioning for Mahabharat, Issar saw an opportunity to revive his career. Raza, who was part of the audition panel, remembered Issar from his earlier audition and was impressed by his diction skills. Initially, the panel offered Issar the role of Bheem, but he surprised them by asking to play Duryodhan instead.

Raza supported Issar's request, and after he recited a poem by Maithilisharan Gupt, his casting as Duryodhan was unanimously accepted. The show went on to become a huge success, and Issar's career finally took off. He has expressed his gratitude towards Raza, who he believes helped him prove himself as an actor.

Throughout the three years of shooting for Mahabharat, Issar would often visit Raza to borrow his writings and seek recommendations. Raza was always encouraging, and Issar has credited him with helping him improve his craft. Issar's experience working with Raza has had a lasting impact on his career, and he continues to cherish the memories of his time working with his mentor.

Rahi Masoom Raza was a renowned writer and poet, best known for his work on the TV series Mahabharat. He was also a close friend and collaborator of Issar's father, director Sudesh Issar. Raza's contributions to Indian literature and television are still widely appreciated, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of writers and actors.

Issar's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of mentorship in the entertainment industry. His journey from being a struggling actor to becoming a household name is an inspiration to many, and his gratitude towards Raza is a reminder of the impact that one person can have on another's career.

In conclusion, Puneet Issar's memories of Rahi Masoom Raza offer a glimpse into the life of a renowned writer and poet, and the impact he had on the career of a young actor. Issar's story is a tribute to Raza's legacy, and a reminder of the importance of mentorship and perseverance in the entertainment industry.

The TV series Mahabharat, which aired on Doordarshan, was a groundbreaking production that brought the epic tale to life on screen. The show's success can be attributed to the talented cast and crew, including Raza, who worked tirelessly to create a memorable experience for audiences. The show's impact on Indian television is still felt today, and its legacy continues to inspire new generations of writers, actors, and directors.

Puneet Issar's experience working on Mahabharat was a defining moment in his career, and his memories of Rahi Masoom Raza are a testament to the power of mentorship and perseverance. As the entertainment industry continues to evolve, Issar's story serves as a reminder of the importance of gratitude, hard work, and dedication to one's craft.