Vijay Varma on Matka King and the Complexity of Human Nature Vijay Varma, known for his nuanced portrayals of flawed yet compelling characters, discusses his latest role as Brij Bhatti in the series Matka King. Bhatti, a cotton trader in 1960s Bombay, is credited with creating the gambling system “matka,” which became a cultural phenomenon. Varma reflects on the allure of Bhatti’s story, noting how the myth of the man initially captivated him more than the reality. The trader’s journey from a rural outsider to a city-based innovator, who built a massive following while maintaining principles against corruption, struck Varma as a paradox. “The dichotomy of it didn’t miss me—talking about a world of gambling, yet the idea that it was done with utmost sincerity, honesty, and integrity,” he explains. Varma describes the process of embodying Bhatti as a collaborative and evolving endeavor. Working alongside director Nagraj Manjule, he emphasizes the shared sense of curiosity and discovery. The pair shot the series over 18–19 days spread across 10 months, refining their approach daily. Manjule’s methodical storytelling and deep cultural roots influenced the project, with the director’s commitment to authenticity evident in the integration of real-life stories from matka culture. Varma mentions meeting family members of Bhatti and others from the era, whose accounts enriched the narrative. “We were both unaware and curious about the time, the game, the person, the people, and the society,” he says. The actor draws parallels between Bhatti’s journey and his own career. Varma highlights the theme of starting from scratch, forging one’s path while adhering to personal principles. He also notes the resemblance between Bhatti and his own father, a reflection that deepened his connection to the role.#dhurandar #matka_king #vijay_varma #nagraj_manjule #brij_bhatti
