Every character is a hero in their own story: Saqib Saleem on redefining narratives

Saqib Saleem has carved a niche for himself as a versatile actor, taking on roles across a spectrum of genres. From portraying a closeted homosexual in the critically acclaimed anthology Bombay Talkies to essaying the legendary cricketer Mohinder Amarnath in 83, Saleem has consistently pushed boundaries. With his latest role in Citadel: Hunny Bunny, the Indian chapter of the international franchise created by the Russo Brothers and helmed locally by Raj & DK, Saleem finds himself at the forefront of a global narrative. In this conversation, Saleem opens up about his journey, the evolving storytelling landscape, and the art of balancing physicality with emotional resonance.

Roles that resonate

Saleem approaches each project with a meticulous eye, prioritising impact and authenticity. “I look for three things,” he explains. “Firstly, the impact of my character within the project. Secondly, who I am working with, and finally, whether the role intrigues me as an audience member. I want to create roles that are impactful and different from what I’ve done before.” For Saleem, each role is an opportunity to push his creative boundaries, a philosophy that shines through in Citadel.

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Action and emotion

Playing KD, a character with complex motivations, in a high stakes spy thriller required intense preparation. Saleem focused on ensuring that KD felt authentic, both physically and emotionally. “I needed to understand KD’s perspective—what drove him, what he wanted,” he shares. “For me, KD is a hero in his own story. He was deprived of love and craved a family, which influenced every decision he made.”

While Citadel demanded rigorous physical preparation, Saleem emphasises that emotional depth was equally crucial. “Even in action scenes, I never forget the emotion driving the character,” he says. “KD may have grey shades, but he has a heart. He feels loss deeply, and that emotional thread is something I worked on constantly.” His commitment extended to physical transformation as well, including a decision to go bald—a choice he discussed with the filmmakers to better reflect KD’s personality.

A global narrative

With its international appeal and ensemble cast, Citadel is a testament to the growing prominence of Indian stories on the global stage. Saleem reflects on the shift in how Indian actors and characters are perceived internationally. “It’s exciting to see Indian actors playing solid, legitimate parts rather than being confined to stereotypes,” he observes. “We’re telling stories that resonate universally while staying true to our cultural nuances.”

Despite the project’s scale, Saleem focused on staying present in his role. “I didn’t approach it thinking about the larger universe,” he explains. “I just tried to be honest about my part. The impact of the role comes later; my job is to be in the moment.”

The joy of collaboration

Working alongside a stellar cast, including Kay Kay Menon, Varun Dhawan, and Samantha Ruth Prabhu, was a transformative experience for Saleem. “I’m a fan of hard-working and passionate people, and the Citadel cast was just the best,” he says. “Kay Kay sir delivers so effortlessly; Varun is incredibly hardworking and humble, and Samantha tackled her challenges with unwavering determination.”

Saleem recounts moments of camaraderie and inspiration on set, where the shared commitment to excellence pushed him to deliver his best. “If the camera was on me after Kay Kay sir or Varun had shot their part, I felt the need to get it right in fewer takes. It’s teamwork, and everyone’s energy influences the final outcome.”

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Transitioning between mediums

Having worked in both films and web series, Saleem has experienced the nuances of storytelling across formats. “Films are crisp and focus on one plot, while web series allow for deeper character development,” he notes. “But for me, the medium doesn’t change my preparation. My goal is to enjoy performing and ensure that my team and the audience enjoy the process.”

Nostalgia with Delhi

Born and raised in Delhi, Saleem’s roots remain an integral part of his identity. “Delhi has taught me great lessons, just as Mumbai has,” he reflects. “Growing up in such a diverse city, I learned to pick up dialects and accents, which became my acting coach of sorts.” For Saleem, Delhi is more than just a backdrop to his childhood—it’s a place of warmth, family, and the best chhole bhature.

Looking ahead

As Indian actors continue to make their mark on the international stage, Saleem sees himself as part of an evolving narrative. With Citadel, he not only embraces the challenge of stepping into a global franchise but also celebrates the opportunity to bring depth and nuance to an Indian character in a complex, layered story.

Reflecting on his journey, Saleem remains grateful. “When your team believes in you, it brings out your best,” he says. “I’ve been fortunate to work with directors who trust me to bring something unique to the table. With Citadel, I’m just happy to have been chosen for a role like KD—one that I hadn’t done before. It’s a reminder to keep growing, keep learning, and keep delivering.”

Saqib Saleem’s journey is a testament to the power of hard work, collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to his craft—a journey that, much like KD’s, is driven by a relentless pursuit of meaning and connection.