: An episodic thriller focusing heavily on suspense, voyeurism, and human obsession.

Shakespeare's plays are renowned for their complex characters, rich language, and exploration of human emotions. As an actress, Ruks Khandagale may have drawn inspiration from Shakespeare's works to hone her craft. Here are some ways Shakespeare's plays can influence an actor's performance:

Why cast Ruks Khandagale as Cordelia?

But the connection is even more fascinating. Public records reveal that Shakespeare Tripathy's background includes a degree in from BJB College in Odisha. An actor named "Shakespeare" with a formal academic grounding in literature—the irony is undeniable. This detail suggests that he is not just a performer with a famous name but a man with a deep academic appreciation for the English language and its literary traditions. One can only imagine the intellectual influence he brings to his creative partnership with Ruks, perhaps offering interpretations of characters, themes, and narratives that are subtly informed by classical literature.

Kulkarni revealed in a recent interview that he forbade Khandagale from smiling for the first six months of rehearsals for As You Like It . “Rosalind is funny,” he said, “but Ruks needed to earn the laughter through pain.” The result, as seen in the archived Part 21 footage, is a Rosalind who jokes like a woman who has forgotten how. Every laugh track is a scar. This tension between the comedic text and the tragic subtext has become Khandagale’s signature.

Ruks stood up, her gaze meeting his. The playful banter faded. “You think the fans will follow us there? Past the clickbait titles?”

What makes this specific chapter of her career so compelling is the physical vocabulary she has developed. For Part 21, Khandagale worked with a movement coach specializing in psychosomatic disorders.

The collaboration continues to break new ground, showcasing that Shakespeare’s work remains a fertile ground for modern actresses to showcase their depth and versatility.

Ruks Khandagale's journey into the world of acting began at a young age. Born and raised in a culturally rich and artistic family, she was exposed to the world of performing arts from a very early age. Her parents, both being enthusiasts of theater and music, encouraged her to explore her creative side, which eventually led her to pursue a career in acting.