Mukesh Chhabra at a casting session, discussing character briefs and guiding young performers (Photo: Social Media)
Mukesh Chhabra is a well-known Indian casting director and has once again taken the spotlight after the release of Dhurandhar, where the casting has become one of the film’s most praised elements. Viewers and critics are terming the lineup pitch-perfect, more so because many of the characters are inspired by real personalities.
As appreciation pours in from across the country, Chhabra’s role as one of India’s most influential casting directors is being celebrated yet again.
Mukesh Chhabra, born on 27 May 1984 in Delhi, is a leading casting director, filmmaker and actor in the Indian film industry. Over the last two decades, he has reshaped casting in Hindi cinema by discovering new talents, promoting fresh faces and redefining how characters get selected for films and series.
Mukesh Chhabra was born on 27 May 1984, which makes him 41 years old in 2025.
When Dhurandhar got released, social media was flooded with appreciation. Many pointed out the realistic casting of the movie as one of its strongest pillars. From brilliant to unmatched, from backbone of realistic casting tweets flooded Twitter. For one user, his work has matched the finesse of legendary projects like Scam 1992 and Dangal.
Chhabra did his training in acting from Shri Ram Centre for Performing Arts, Delhi. Later, he did six years with the Theatre in Education Company associated with the National School of Drama, which honed his understanding of performance and human behaviour.
His father, T. C. Chhabra, encouraged his early interest in theatre and helped him pursue the performing arts.
Chhabra credits his mother, Kamla Chhabra, for nurturing his creative instincts. He often refers to how her encouragement kept him focused during his early struggles in Delhi.
Mukesh Chhabra was earlier married to dancer Methil Devika. The two have separated now. He has said in interviews that he is single now.
Chhabra started his career in 2006 as assistant casting director on Rang De Basanti. In the following years, he spearheaded the casting for some of India's biggest films and web series including Dangal, Bajrangi Bhaijaan, Scam 1992, Dunki and Jawan. In 2020, he made his directorial debut with Sushant Singh Rajput's final film Dil Bechara.
Casting Work:
As Film Director:
As Actor:
Chhabra's influence goes much further than just selecting faces. To his credit is the fact that he:
His net worth is estimated at Rs. 30–40 crore, earned through casting projects, film direction, acting roles, workshops and brand collaborations.
ALSO READ: Who Were the Real Khanani Brothers in Dhurandhar? The True Story Behind the Film
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes and is based on publicly available details. It does not claim or imply any legal or personal conclusions.
