Pratik Gandhi’s Journey: From Scam 1992’s Harshad Mehta to Phule’s Jyotirao – A Role That Redefines His Career

Key Highlights:

Actor Pratik Gandhi, known for his breakout role as Harshad Mehta in the critically acclaimed series Scam 1992, is stepping into a dramatically different role in his upcoming film Phule. Based on the life of Mahatma Jyotirao Phule and Savitribai Phule, the film presents one of the boldest transitions in Gandhi’s career — from portraying a notorious scammer to one of India’s most respected social reformers.

A Versatile Actor Who Refuses to Be Typecast

After winning national attention as the shrewd stockbroker in Scam 1992, Pratik Gandhi deliberately chose roles that broke away from the cunning businessman image. From romancing onscreen in Do Aur Do Pyaar to stepping into socially reflective characters, Gandhi is embracing the full spectrum of human complexity.

In his own words:

“I don’t restrict myself when picking these characters. If I get excited about the film and the storytelling is working for me, then I take it up… I never judge the morality of the character, and that’s the fun.”

This mindset has helped him avoid being pigeonholed, instead showcasing a remarkable ability to shift between genres and moral spectrums with ease.

Phule: A Story Rooted in Social Justice and Relevance

Gandhi’s upcoming film Phule tells the story of Mahatma Jyotirao Phule and Savitribai Phule, the 19th-century couple who fearlessly fought caste discrimination and pioneered women’s education in India. Their lives and activism laid the foundation for numerous civil rights movements that followed.

In a recent interview, Gandhi revealed how playing Jyotirao Phule was one of the most emotionally complex and mentally demanding roles of his career.

“Portraying this character in a realistic way, without imposing judgment or bias, was tough,” he said.
“These are complex figures—Jyotirao and Savitribai were among India’s first reformers. As I delved into their story, I realised that many of the issues they faced are still incredibly relevant today.”

The film is expected to explore intimate moments between the two reformers, delving not just into their activism but also the personal strength it took to withstand social ridicule and political suppression.

Why This Role Matters in 2025

In an age when Indian cinema is increasingly focused on biopics and historical redressals, Phule comes at a pivotal moment. The country continues to grapple with inequality, education reform, caste debates, and gender justice—issues that the Phules addressed over a century ago.

By bringing their story to life, Pratik Gandhi is not just expanding his acting résumé—he’s helping rekindle national conversations that are more pressing than ever.

This isn’t just another role. It’s a reclamation of forgotten history and a tribute to real-life revolutionaries who changed the social fabric of India.

A Character Without Judgement, A Film With Purpose

Gandhi’s approach to acting—non-judgmental, immersive, and fearless—makes him the ideal choice for such a layered character. His refusal to classify characters as good or bad allows him to embody them with honesty and authenticity.

“The project should be exciting enough for me where I see the possibility of enhancing my knowledge and my experience while working on it,” he said.

With Phule, Gandhi is not only challenging himself but also offering viewers a chance to engage with history through a powerful cinematic lens.

A Role That Redefines Gandhi’s Career

Pratik Gandhi’s role in Phule could be the turning point that cements his legacy—not just as a versatile actor, but as a performer who dares to tackle India’s most important and untold stories. From stock market scams to social revolution, Gandhi’s choices continue to push boundaries and inspire conversations.

As the release of Phule approaches, audiences can expect a performance that is intense, thoughtful, and possibly his most impactful yet.

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