Actor Vikrant Massey recently shared how his character of Shutu in A Death in the Gunj had a deep impact on his mental and emotional health. The actor said that his character of a vulnerable, sensitive young man struggling with loneliness and rejection left a lasting emotional impression on him.

Directed by Konkona Sen Sharma, one death in ganj (2016) is a poignant and atmospheric film based on 1979. Massey’s portrayal of Shootu, a character who struggles with inner turmoil amid an ordinary family vacation, deeply resonated with audiences and demonstrated his ability to bring raw emotion to the screen.

However, as Massey explained in a recent interview with India Today Digital, the process of playing such a complex character comes with its own challenges.

“In the past, I have taken my characters home with me. Be it A Death in the Gunj, Chhapaak, or Love Hostel, I was not better equipped at that time, and I took those films home. And he influenced me,” Messi admitted. “Particularly A Death in the Gunj, which had a massive impact on my emotional and mental health.”

Massey discusses how he approached his recent work, particularly his role Netflix film sector 36. For this film, the actor was determined not to take the burden of his character home with him.

“With Sector 36, I was very aware of the fact that this guy (character) couldn’t come home. I got three and a half months to prepare before the shoot. When we were planning the schedule and shot division, it was clear to me that I couldn’t let this character follow me home. I am naturally very sensitive, so I knew this character had to be there on the sets,” he said.

During the 37-day shoot in Delhi, Massey followed a strict routine – staying in a hotel, working on the sets and keeping his focus on the film without returning home to his family. This isolated, end-to-end shooting process helped him maintain a certain emotional distance from his character.

Despite this effort, Macy acknowledged the inevitable emotional resonance that his roles can leave behind.

“As an actor, these stories and characters come back home with you. You’re constantly evolving as a person, and with every role, I learn something new about myself. It’s just the nature of the job; It’s an occupational hazard,” he explained. “You have to deal with it,” Vikrant concluded.

Vikrant Massey is now gearing up for the release of The Sabarmati Report, which also stars Raashi Khanna and Riddhi Dogra. The film will be released on November 15.