‘Mandala Murders’ Actor Sharat Sonu: “In a Dark Series, My Character Brought Relief”
Mumbai, August 2 – In the heart of the haunting crime thriller Mandala Murders, one character is making audiences chuckle—and it’s intentional. Actor Sharat Sonu, who plays SHO Pramod, says his role was crafted to provide much-needed levity in the otherwise dark and gripping YRF Entertainment series.
While the show has captivated viewers with its intense narrative and chilling visuals, Sharat’s portrayal of the quirky yet grounded police officer has emerged as a fan favorite—bringing a momentary smile amid murder mysteries and psychological suspense.
“Humor Was My Entry Point”
Speaking to the media about the preparation behind his character, Sharat Sonu revealed what drew him to the role in the first place.
“I was instantly drawn to the humor. In a dark series like Mandala Murders, my character brought relief. That contrast made it special,” said the actor.
He also acknowledged the challenges of performing subtle comedy, especially in a high-stakes environment like a psychological thriller.
“Comedy can easily slip into exaggeration. Keeping it natural was the real challenge. But workshops and the vision of Gopi Sir (Gopi Puthran, co-director) helped a lot. Even during retakes, the energy on set was so infectious that it never felt monotonous or difficult,” Sharat explained.
Comic Relief Amidst the Darkness
Mandala Murders isn’t your everyday whodunit. Directed by Gopi Puthran (of Mardaani 2 fame) and Manan Rawat, the show delves deep into the psychological depths of serial killings, cult crimes, and hidden traumas. Within this dark world, SHO Pramod’s character is a welcome breather.
“Honestly, I didn’t need to go dark. My role was the comic relief. But the atmosphere was so intense that even while being light-hearted, you still felt the weight of the set. It helped me find the right balance,” Sharat said.
Praise for Vaani Kapoor and Vaibhav Raj Gupta
Sharat was full of praise for his co-stars, especially Vaani Kapoor, who plays the lead investigative officer, and Vaibhav Raj Gupta, who plays a pivotal supporting role.
“Vaani is incredibly warm and grounded. She never brings ‘star energy’ to the set. She’s completely focused on the scene, and that energy rubs off on everyone,” he said.
“Vaibhav is probably the most supportive co-actor anyone could ask for. Whether it's rehearsals or actual takes, he’s present, attentive, and kind. The chemistry between everyone really shows on screen.”
Audience Reactions Pour In
With the show streaming on a major OTT platform, Mandala Murders has already generated significant buzz for its unique visual style, intense plotlines, and standout performances. And Sharat Sonu’s SHO Pramod is drawing his own wave of fan appreciation.
“I’ve been receiving messages from friends and fans saying how refreshing my character felt amidst all the darkness. When someone tells you, ‘you made me laugh in a thriller,’ that’s the best compliment I could get,” he smiled.
Visually Striking, Emotionally Charged
One of the highlights of Mandala Murders is its rich production design. Every detail—from set layouts to lighting—plays a key role in creating an immersive atmosphere.
“The sets and lighting were so detailed, it felt like stepping into another world. You didn’t have to act the atmosphere—it was already there,” Sharat shared.
Indeed, many actors involved with the series have echoed this sentiment, crediting the visual tone for helping them sink into character with ease.
Why This Role Matters
In a series filled with psychological twists and emotional trauma, SHO Pramod offers comic relief without undermining the story’s seriousness. His presence reflects a broader trend in Indian streaming content: the importance of balancing tension with moments of humanity and humor.
“My role was written to offer that emotional release. You need that lightness in a series this dark. I’m grateful to be that bridge for viewers,” said Sharat.
Produced by YRF Entertainment
Mandala Murders marks yet another ambitious OTT venture from YRF Entertainment, the digital arm of Yash Raj Films. The studio has been actively investing in original streaming content since 2023 and shows like The Railway Men and now Mandala Murders are part of that lineup.
Directed by Gopi Puthran and Manan Rawat, the series is quickly establishing itself as one of the year’s most intriguing thrillers, both for its narrative depth and visual storytelling.
Final Thoughts from TheTrendingPeople.com
Sharat Sonu’s performance as SHO Pramod in Mandala Murders is a testament to the power of nuance in storytelling. In a series marked by shadows and psychological weight, his humor brings balance, reminding viewers that light and dark can coexist meaningfully.
With fans already celebrating his role and the show’s powerful execution, it’s clear that Mandala Murders is not just a dark thriller—it’s also a human story with heart, wit, and unforgettable characters.