Undekhi fame Apeksha Porwal to play a pivotal role in Rajnikanth's Jailer 2

Apeksha Porwal

Despite the popularity of her show Undekhi, Apeksha Porwal found it difficult to land roles. At times, industry bias against outsiders and Bollywood's fixation with fair skin cost her opportunities. Now, the tide seems to be turning. The actor has bagged a pivotal role in Jailer 2, with an insider suggesting her character lends an interesting spin to the story.

"She has begun shooting for Jailer 2 in Mumbai," a source tells mid-day. "Nelson Dilipkumar's directorial is currently in production. After the massive success of the original, expectations from the sequel are high." The visibility she stands to gain from the big-ticket Rajinikanth-starrer marks a significant moment in her career, adds the source.

Rajinikanth in ‘Jailer 2'

"She has repeatedly spoken about the struggle outsiders face in securing meaningful roles in an industry still driven by legacy tropes. [She has faced] outsider labels and appearance-based casting." In her interview, (The bias against dusky women is real, 02/12/2024) - with mid-day, Porwal discussed the discrimination she encountered because of her skin tone, stating that she "lost projects due to her dusky tone." Her entry into Jailer 2, where she is currently completing her first schedule, marks a notable shift for her.

An insider reveals that Dilipkumar "wanted someone with an intense screen presence" and she fit the brief. "The team feels her look and energy bring something fresh to the film. She had done her homework," the insider observes.

Jailer 2, also starring Meghana Raj Sarja and SJ Suryah, is slated for a June 2026 release.

Did you know?

‘Jailer 2' marks the return of Meghana Raj Sarja after a sabbatical of 13 years