I believe OTT platforms in India have reached their peak: Sanyam Sharma

Sanyam Sharma, actor and content creator, has made a mark in the entertainment industry with his compelling performances. Best known for his roles in various web series, Sharma recently portrayed the character of Vicky Bhaiyya in ‘Swipe Crime’, a show that delves into the world of cybercrime and digital privacy. With a background in theater and a strong presence in digital content creation, Sharma seamlessly balances both careers, bringing authenticity and depth to his characters. In this exclusive interview with Adgully, he shares insights into his preparation process, the challenges he faced on set, his thoughts on the evolving landscape of digital content in India, and more.

How did you prepare for your role as Vicky Bhaiyya in Swipe Crime?

The first and most basic step in preparation was reading the script thoroughly. Memorizing such a lengthy script is crucial. Apart from that, I spent a lot of time discussing the character with the director. I believe the most effective and approachable method is to sit with the person who wrote the script—just one conversation with them can give you a complete understanding of the character and the process. Our cast included around 20 to 25 actors, each playing an important role. Interestingly, the casting was done in a way that many actors shared similarities with their characters, which made the process even more engaging. We conducted multiple workshops and on-site rehearsals, which made things much easier.

Over the 23 shows that you have done, how has your character evolved over time?

It has definitely evolved. Let me share a short story. Before Swipe Crime, I worked on a show called Yeh Saali Naukri, which was written and directed by Kaviraj. During the casting of Swipe Crime, they were considering Mugdha, the female lead from Yeh Saali Naukri, but they had no idea that I could fit into the role of Vicky. However, after watching my previous performance, they realized that my character in Yeh Saali Naukri, Ravi Ranjan, and Vicky shared certain traits. It almost felt like Ravi Ranjan’s life continued beyond that show, transforming into Vicky in Swipe Crime.

Swipe Crime deals with cybercrime and privacy issues. What message do you hope viewers take away from the series?

The most important takeaway is awareness – especially about the dangers of sharing personal data. We often grant unnecessary permissions to apps without considering the consequences. People should be more cautious about the information they share online. Cybercrime has become a major issue, and even governments are now actively working on measures to tackle it. It is crucial for individuals to take responsibility and be mindful of their digital footprint.

What was the most challenging scene for you to shoot in Swipe Crime?

The biggest challenge was the extreme weather conditions. We shot the series over two years in three different schedules, with some scenes filmed in Bhopal, where temperatures reached 50°C. Wearing makeup and shooting under such conditions was tough. Thankfully, the production team took great care of us, ensuring we faced minimal difficulties. Another challenge was controlling emotions in front of the camera. Coming from a theater background, I am used to larger-than-life expressions, so adapting to a more controlled and subtle performance for the screen was a learning experience.

As an actor and content creator, how do you balance both careers?

In films and web series, I play different characters, whereas, in content creation, I play myself. Interestingly, creating content has helped me understand myself better. Many people think making short-form content is easy, but even a one-minute reel sometimes requires 50 takes. Since I have been doing this for over five years, it has become second nature to me. Balancing both careers is not difficult because content creation keeps me in practice, helps with improvisation, and enhances my understanding of camera work.

Could you share a memorable behind-the-scenes moment from the Swipe Crime set?

I love having fun on set, which often led to my co-actors getting annoyed with me. One of the most memorable incidents happened during the climax scene with Diksha. It was a heated argument scene, and due to the intense heat and exhaustion, something funny happened. After the director called “Cut”, I unknowingly started laughing, and in the moment, Diksha accidentally slapped me, even though it was not in the script. We both stood there confused, mixing personal emotions with the character’s intensity. It was an unplanned, but unforgettable moment.

How do you see the future of digital content and web series evolving in India?

I believe OTT platforms in India have reached their peak. When Sacred Games was released, it set a new standard for web series in terms of production quality and storytelling. Since then, many shows have been made, but few have surpassed that level. However, some recent series have gained traction, proving that audiences are still interested in good content. The future of digital content depends on refining storytelling and maintaining quality control. While the industry continues to grow, it will be crucial to focus on delivering fresh, engaging, and meaningful content.

Are there any upcoming projects that you can share with us?

Yes! There are a few projects in the pipeline. Swipe Crime is confirmed to have a second season, and we will begin shooting soon. Besides that, I have auditioned for some interesting projects, and script discussions are ongoing. However, until I sign something officially, I prefer not to reveal too much.

Any final message for your fans?

Swipe Crime is a well-made and relatable show because it highlights real cybercrime incidents that often go unnoticed. Our cast, including Diksha, Rhea, Faizal sir, and many others, worked really hard on this project. Faizal sir, in particular, delivered an outstanding performance. So, whether you watch it for me, for the crime genre, or just to gain awareness, I highly recommend it. Stay safe, stay aware, and keep supporting good content!