Mirzapur: The Film - Has Jitendra Kumar wrapped up shoot as new Bablu Pandit? Here's what we know

Jitendra Kumar (Jeetu Bhaiya) is cast in Mirzapur: The Film sparking excitement. He'll play a revived Bablu Pandit, previously played by Vikrant Massey. Filming is near completion.

Jitendra Kumar/Instagram

With the unexpected casting of Jitendra Kumar, better known as Jeetu Bhaiya, the impending film version of the famous web series Mirzapur: The Film has exacerbated the already enormous fan excitement surrounding the project. With the franchise making history as the first Indian web series to move to a theatrical release, the presence of Kumar on set, initially hinted at through viral behind-the-scenes films, has sparked a flurry of curiosity.

Secrecy surrounds filming and schedule

Producers and actors are both being very secretive about the project, but those in the know say that Kumar is not only appearing in the film but is also far into filming. An informed source who spoke to mid-day stated that the film should wrap up by Monday. The source also stated that Mirzapur: The Film is being shot in Varanasi [Uttar Pradesh] and Mumbai and that Kumar has finished over 50% of his scenes.

The part that Kumar is supposed to play, Bablu Pandit is the most intriguing part of his casting. Before his character died, Vikrant Massey performed this part in the show's first season. One of the most secretive aspects of the project is the director's and writer's choice to resurrect the character—albeit with a different actor—in the film.

ALSO READ: Mirzapur: The Film - Did Ali Fazal accidentally confirm Jitendra Kumar as new Bablu Pandit?

New actor's take on established character

A source close to the production shared details about the new cast's approach to the character. They added that Massey brought a kind of purity and understated power to Bablu Pandit. The innocence will stay the same thanks to Jitendra's performance, which exudes warmth and authenticity. The source also said, "His chemistry with Ali is also something to watch out for."

Many see the makers' decision to cast Kumar as a calculated ploy. A source informed the tabloid that the makers have found not only a good actor in Kumar, but also someone who is extremely popular in the heartland from a visibility perspective. They said it will be a collaboration worth the wait.

Official announcement to follow

For the time being, Kumar is to remain mum about his involvement, but a formal announcement is in the works for the future. According to an insider, Excel Entertainment has a special plan to announce Jitendra as part of the Mirzapur family. It will take place early in the new year, when the major filming has concluded.

Divyenndu and Abhishek Banerjee, who have been regulars on the show, will be returning for this film's release next year. Also, the Mirzapur: The Film rumour has it that Ravi Kishan has a "pivotal part" to perform. Every casting announcement adds to the already immense fan expectation, as the film's extraordinary transition from a streaming hit to a big cinematic event remains the buzz of the industry.

FAQs:

Q: Has Jitendra Kumar replaced Vikrant Massey as Bablu Pandit in Mirzapur: The Film?

A: Yes. Sources confirm that actor Jitendra Kumar, widely known as Jeetu Bhaiya, will be stepping into the role of Bablu Pandit, originally played by Vikrant Massey in the web series' first season.

Q: When will Jitendra Kumar's casting in Mirzapur: The Film be officially announced?

A: According to insiders, the actor and makers are currently maintaining secrecy. Excel Entertainment has a special announcement planned for Jitendra Kumar once the principal shoot for the film is completed, which is expected to be early next year.

Q: Who else is returning for Mirzapur: The Film?

A: The film will see the return of several key cast members, including Divyenndu (Munna Bhaiya) and Abhishek Banerjee (Compounder). Sources also suggest that Ravi Kishan will play a pivotal role in the film.

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