'If the Story Demands It, Then I Would Play It': Tahir Raj Bhasin on Hypermasculine Roles, Ensembles and 'Shaque'

Tahir Raj Bhasin is back in the spotlight with Netflix's psychological thriller series 'Shaque: Trust No One', where he plays Alok — the husband of Parineeti Chopra's character Anvita and the son of Soni Razdan's character. With the seven-episode series having premiered on Netflix on September 24, 2026, the actor has been opening up about the roles he picks, including whether he would ever go down the hypermasculine route that has taken centre stage in mainstream cinema.

Tahir Raj Bhasin weighs in on hypermasculinity in films

Speaking to NDTV, Tahir Raj Bhasin was asked whether he would consider playing a hypermasculine character at a time when films such as Animal, Dhurandhar and Toxic have brought different portrayals of masculinity into the mainstream conversation. The actor said he would be open to such a role if it was organically required by the narrative rather than being used simply as a character trait.

“It would really have to suit what the story is. For example, if I play in a gangster drama... So, I am for the story. I don't think playing hypermasculinity as a character choice when the story doesn't demand it, I would be in favour of,” Tahir told NDTV.

Ensemble casts and finding security in the script

Tahir has worked in several ensemble projects, including Kabir Khan's 83 and Nitesh Tiwari's Chhichhore. In Shaque, too, he shares the screen with an ensemble that includes Parineeti Chopra and Soni Razdan. Asked whether working in large ensembles ever makes him concerned about losing his identity as an actor, Tahir said he finds confidence in the script and the role's contribution to the narrative.

“Be it 83, Chhichhore or Shaque, I have worked with brilliant directors, who are always at the top of their game. Security comes from the script. You know that the story can't evolve unless the character evolves,” he said.

The actor added that he remains focused on ensuring that audiences understand his character and its place within the larger narrative. “I am very sure that my heart is with the character and the audience needs to know it. All these projects are different from each other. And you know the character will give the story a direction that gives security as an actor,” Tahir added.

Playing Alok in 'Shaque: Trust No One'

In Shaque: Trust No One, Tahir plays Alok, a character caught between his relationships with his mother and wife while also searching for a sense of belonging within his family. The series stars Parineeti Chopra as Anvita, a mother searching for her missing baby. Directed by Rensil D'Silva, the psychological thriller unfolds over seven episodes.

Tahir Raj Bhasin's work beyond 'Shaque'

Tahir Raj Bhasin made his acting debut with Mardaani in 2014, where he played the antagonist opposite Rani Mukerji. He subsequently appeared in films and series including 83, Chhichhore, Yeh Kaali Kaali Ankhein, Sultan of Delhi and Special Ops Season 2.