It has been a few weeks since the web series IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack released on Netflix, but viewers are still talking about it. While on one hand the actors’ acting is being praised, on the other hand the makers faced a lot of trouble due to the controversy over the code names used for the hijackers.

A section of viewers alleged that director Anubhav Sinha has tried to hide facts as he has hidden that the hijackers were all Muslims, and has given them code names in the show as ‘Chief’, ‘Doctor’, ‘Burger’, ‘Bhola’ and ‘Shankar’. Actor Harry Parmar, who plays the role of terrorist Shahid Akhtar Saeed aka ‘Doctor’, spoke exclusively to India Today Digital and said that the team never expected this controversy.

“Believe me, it never crossed anyone’s mind. We weren’t really discouraged when it happened. We all understand the importance of balancing creativity and storytelling with factual accuracy, especially when dealing with real-life events. Decisions were made to enhance narrative coherence, taking into account the sensibilities of those involved. Code names like ‘Doctor’ were part of real events, and details were included according to what real people shared. I believe it was never intended to offend anyone,” Harry said.

Talking about his performance as the dreaded kidnapper, the actor said that it always feels special when people love to hate you. He also revealed how he bagged the role in just a few hours.

Calling it destiny, Parmar said, “I later came to know that another actor had already been finalised for the role, but the deal fell through. I got a call from the casting team and I auditioned at around 5 pm. After that, I had a meeting with Anubhav sir and by 9 pm, I was selected. It all happened in a matter of hours.”

Very few people know that Harry Parmar is also a casting director, a profession he chose to earn his living. He said that since childhood he wanted to become an actor, and how his friends used to call him to praise his dedication.

He said, “When I started out, many filmmakers were not ready to give opportunities to newcomers. On the other hand, TV requires a certain kind of face and I felt I was not suited for it. Mukesh Chhabra is my childhood friend and he called me and asked if I wanted to join his company. That’s how it all started.”

It’s no secret how the casting process has changed, with filmmakers now opting for popular social media faces rather than real talent.

The casting director-actor said, “I personally never look for numbers. Yes, there are times when producers come up with such demands. I really feel it is not fair as both the jobs are very different, and the mediums are also different. Whenever the producers have been persistent, I have shared my point of view with them and asked them to cast actors. If you are good, social media numbers should not matter. But if you cannot act, it will make a huge difference.”

IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack is streaming on Netflix.