Ali Fazal reveals why playing a lover boy again feels refreshing

Indian actor Ali Fazal is set to explore a softer, romantic side on screen once again as he joins the upcoming anthology Lust Stories 3, saying the role offers a refreshing sense of freedom after years of playing intense characters.

According to The Times of India, Ali Fazal will appear in a romantic and emotionally layered story opposite Radhikka Madan in the third installment of the popular anthology Lust Stories.

The segment is directed by filmmaker Shakun Batra, known for his nuanced storytelling and exploration of complex relationships.

Fazal said the project came at a time when he was looking for something emotionally honest.

The actor explained that playing a lover boy again feels liberating, especially when the character is portrayed as flawed, sensitive and emotionally aware in a modern context.

The actor, widely recognized for intense roles such as Guddu Bhaiya in the hit series Mirzapur, said audiences will likely see a very different side of him in the upcoming project.

Speaking about working with Batra, Fazal noted that the director has a unique way of observing human behaviour and allows scenes to develop naturally rather than forcing dramatic moments.

Apart from his screen projects, the actor has also returned to his theatre roots.

He recently served as a presenter for the stage play Mahanagar Jugnu, written and directed by playwright Amitosh Nagpal.

The play was staged at the Le' Chakallas Fringe Festival and explored themes of urban life through a poetic and intimate narrative.

Fazal said theatre has always remained close to his heart, describing his involvement with the play as a “full-circle moment” in his artistic journey.