Amruta Khanvilkar on Casting, Social Media Pressure & Evolving OTT Roles

Mumbai: Actress Amruta Khanvilkar, recently seen in the web series Taskaree: A Smuggler’s Web, says the casting process in the entertainment industry has shifted significantly since she began her career nearly two decades ago. Known for films like Raazi (2018) and Malang (2020), the 41-year-old actor believes that social media metrics often influence casting today, but she refuses to let that pressure dictate her approach.

“Casting is not in an actor’s hands. Casting based on followers does not make sense. How would one know if a role was lost because someone else has more social media followers?” Amruta says. She adds candidly, “If an actor wants complete control, the only way is to produce or direct. Otherwise, all you can do is focus on your craft and stay authentic.”

She explains that the unpredictability of the industry is something she has learned to accept. “If I lost a role, it was never meant to be. You win some, you lose some. That’s the nature of this industry. We as actors can’t get bothered by why we lost the role, as one would never know the real reason. Having said that, you can’t live with regret,” she notes.

OTT platforms changing the game

Amruta highlights how OTT platforms have expanded opportunities for actors, particularly through long-format storytelling that allows deeper exploration of characters.

“OTT has given actors more space and content to experiment. In long-format storytelling, the writing becomes crucial—the character arc, timeline, and evolution across seasons all matter. Makers are now willing to experiment not only with content but also with actors,” she explains.

She emphasizes how female roles are becoming more nuanced and multidimensional.

Breaking stereotypes around women on screen

For Amruta, the most refreshing change is how women’s characters are now treated as individuals rather than being defined by gender. “I love it when makers treat characters as characters, not genders. A woman can be nurturing and still be fierce. She can be in her jeans and shirt and completely kicka**, and that should feel normal,” she says.

For Amruta Khanvilkar, staying grounded, trusting her craft, and adapting to industry changes have been key to maintaining a long and successful career in an ever-evolving entertainment landscape.