Jitendra Kumar On Becoming India’s Favourite Everyman

He isn’t the loudest voice in the room, nor does he try to be. But over time, Jitendra Kumar has emerged as one of India’s most beloved on-screen storytellers—winning over audiences with roles that speak softly but stay with you.

From the ambitious Jeetu Bhaiya of Kota Factory to the emotionally layered Abhishek Tripathi of Panchayat, his characters have struck a chord with a generation searching for sincerity over swagger.

In conversation with Esquire India, Jitendra opens up about his journey from the classrooms of IIT Kharagpur to the sets of Mumbai, the real-life romance blooming quietly behind the scenes, and why, despite the fanfare, he still finds joy in fitted clothes, home-cooked food, and a good night’s sleep.

Did you ever imagine that a quiet little story from Phulera would one day become India’s most-watched streaming original?

When I heard the first narration of Panchayat, I liked the story and felt the characters were well-written. My thought was maybe once people start watching it, they will like it, but I never expected this kind of excitement and love from the audience. I think the audience got drawn to the individual tracks of each character, and they keep coming back for that.

From Kota Factory to Panchayat, your characters feel plucked from everyday life—so relatable and grounded. How do you go about choosing them?

I started my career with TVF (The Viral Fever; digital entertainment platform and production company), and all the content they put out, the motto is to tell stories of real people. All the characters I have played so far were offered to me by the makers at TVF and not the other way around. And, now that has become the norm, as I mostly get offered relatable stories and roles.

You’re often called the poster boy of real, rooted, and rural storytelling. Does that label sit well with you?

Yes, but at the same time, I would like to perform in various genres. But in all those stories, the characters should be real and relatable.

You've never tried to fit the traditional ‘hero ’mould—and yet, your fan base is incredibly loyal.

If there is no honesty in the stories I’m a part of as an actor, the audience will not enjoy my work. We can only engage viewers, make them laugh and cry when we are able to tell an honest story that they themselves can be a part of.

Hair and makeup by Shenoya Fernandes, styled by KrishnaPhoto by Tridev Sudevan

Whether it’s Chaman Bahar, Jaadugar, Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan, and even Panchayat—your romantic characters are always emotionally layered. What draws you to these kinds of love stories?

I’m really lucky to have received these characters from all my directors. All the romantic tracks I have done are layered, not very loud, and have slowly progressed, and that is something I really treasure.

Is there a love story brewing in your real life too?

I’m lucky enough to have found love in my real life as well. But I cannot say any further (laughs).

You come from a family with political roots. What does your family think of your rise? Are they surprised—or did they always see this coming?

They continue to be surprised by my performances—and all the love and adulation I have received from the audience. I still remember the time when I first told them after graduating that I waned to work in the film industry. They were shocked, as I’m a civil engineer from IIT Kharagpur. They really wanted me to join a top notch construction company.

My family is in Khairtal, Rajasthan and whenever I go visiting, my father always asks me about my upcoming projects. As a family, we watch films together. Sometimes the same film a few times but they cannot watch my series and films more than once (laughs).

When you’re not on set, what are the passions that fuel you?

I’m actually a homebody. I enjoy watching new series and films, and talking about it to friends. Occasionally, I enjoy traveling. My preferred holiday destinations have to be in the lap of nature.

You have a clean, fuss-free sense of style and always look well put together.

Whatever I wear, it has to sit well and fit well. Of course I work out to stay in shape, but the fitting is very crucial. It doesn’t matter whether it is designer or high street label, it has to fit perfectly.

Is there a grooming ritual you swear by—especially for your skin and hair?

I eat home-cooked meals. I love dal chawal, egg curry and chicken curry. I have started to eat more leafy green vegetables now. I really enjoyed eating out a lot but it shows on your skin and body eventually. I try to get seven to eight hours of sleep. Cleansing and moisturising is very important for me.