Rahu Ketu: A Hilarious Take on Indian Mythology with Pulkit Samrat and Varun Sharma

Directed by Vipul Vig, Rahu Ketu takes inspiration from Indian mythology but presents it through a comedic lens. Suraj Singh shares, “We didn’t just choose Pulkit and Varun; they chose us.” He believes the script was the driving force behind their selection. “From the very beginning, we knew they were our Rahu and Ketu.”

For Pulkit, joining the project felt like a natural choice. “I grew up watching fantasy films like Chhota Chetan and Ajooba,” he reminisces. “There’s a child within me who has always wanted to be part of this genre. When Vipul shared the story, that inner child awakened.” His decision was also influenced by his friendship with Vipul and the ease of working with Varun. “It’s like collaborating with a friend to create something great.”

Varun, who portrays Rahu, admits that the title piqued his interest. “Rahu and Ketu have always been figures of fear for us. When their names come up in horoscopes, it creates anxiety,” he laughs. What captivated him was the film’s fresh perspective. “Vipul explained that Rahu and Ketu shouldn’t be feared; they represent karma. Good deeds bring rewards, while bad actions lead to consequences.”

The animated song Kaun Hai Rahu Ketu, which explores their origins during the samudra manthan, solidified Varun's commitment to the project. “It’s humorous yet thought-provoking, which really excited me.”

The filmmakers were adamant that Rahu Ketu is meant for theaters. “We don’t create films with a specific platform in mind,” Suraj Singh clarifies. “We focus on making a film, and its destiny unfolds later.” He believes that comedy thrives in a communal setting. Varun wholeheartedly agrees, stating, “Comedy is contagious. When a crowd of 200 laughs together, it transforms perspectives. That shared laughter is pure magic.”

Successfully merging mythology with humor could have been challenging, but Pulkit feels both elements are integral to his identity. “My grandparents shared stories from the Ramayana and Mahabharata with me as a child, while comedy was a part of my upbringing in a Delhi joint family. Both aspects are in my DNA,” he explains. The goal is to present these mythological figures in a lighter, more enjoyable manner. “We hope audiences leave with a more positive view of Rahu and Ketu.”

While there’s a message, it’s delivered subtly. “It’s a thoughtful comedy,” Pulkit notes. “Vipul’s writing is rich and meaningful. Like Fukrey, it has depth, wrapped in chaos.”

Recreating their beloved chemistry required a different approach. “The key was not to force it,” Pulkit explains. “We had to unlearn everything and return to the essence of who we were on the first day of Fukrey, fully embracing the director’s vision.”

Their camaraderie is evident in their conversations. Varun describes their connection as almost telepathic. “There’s a silent understanding between us. A single glance can convey where the scene is headed.” Pulkit agrees, stating, “We complete each other’s thoughts. Where I lack, he fills in, and vice versa.”

Both actors are also exploring new avenues. Pulkit is venturing into action with his upcoming boxing series, Glory. “I’m hooked on action now,” he smiles. Varun, meanwhile, is keen to delve into thrillers. “I’m excited by complex, darker characters. I want to surprise the audience.”

Reflecting on their time on set, Varun humorously recalls that whenever Suraj Singh visited their shoot in Manali, it poured rain. “We joked, please don’t come!” Pulkit remembers a particularly hectic scene that had to be rewritten overnight due to the rain. “Vipul adapted the scene on the fly, and the improvisation turned out to be even funnier. It’s a testament to Rahu Ketu! Things may seem chaotic, but they ultimately work out for the best.”

And perhaps that encapsulates the film’s philosophy: embrace the chaos, trust in karma, and enjoy the journey.