Excitement for Mirzapur: The Movie is steadily growing ahead of its theatrical release in September. The teaser has brought back several familiar faces, increasing anticipation among fans. However, one notable change has sparked fresh discussion online.
Vikrant Massey, who played Bablu Pandit in the original series, will not reprise his role in the film. Instead, Jitendra Kumar will portray the character. The recasting has become one of the biggest talking points among Mirzapur fans.
Speaking about his journey with the series, Vikrant reflected on the first season and shared one regret. He admitted that, if given a choice, he would have preferred that the makers had not killed off his character. At the time, neither the cast nor the creators expected the series to become such a massive success.
The actor recalled that the team simply wanted to create an engaging show with a passionate cast and crew. He also praised Excel Entertainment for supporting a story set in India’s hinterland before such narratives became mainstream across streaming platforms.
Vikrant said the overwhelming response to Mirzapur surprised everyone involved. He was shooting Ramprasad Ki Tehrvi in Lucknow when the series premiered. Within hours of its release, large crowds gathered near the shooting location after learning that Bablu Bhaiya was filming there.
According to Vikrant, the crew struggled to continue shooting as hundreds of fans waited outside. Many followed his vehicle on motorcycles, requesting selfies, photographs, and autographs. That experience made the team realise how deeply the series had connected with audiences.
Interestingly, while several characters who died in the series are returning for Mirzapur: The Movie, Bablu Pandit is the only role to be recast. Fans are now eager to see how Jitendra Kumar performs in the iconic role and whether he receives the same appreciation as Vikrant.
