Actress Tillotama Shome recently took to social media to share an emotional tribute to her Paatal Lok co-star Jaideep Ahlawat, reflecting on their friendship and time spent working together on the much-anticipated second season of the crime thriller series. The actress, who plays Meghna Barua in the new season, posted a candid picture of Jaideep resting his head on a table, alongside a touching note about their camaraderie.
“The soulful and gentle giant Jaideep Ahlawat. It is so easy to sit in silence with this man,” wrote Tillotama, expressing her admiration for the actor. She humorously shared how she made him drink her herbal tea from tiny cups every night on set. “It is even easier to act with him,” she added, underscoring their effortless chemistry in front of the camera.
Beyond their on-screen dynamic, Tillotama also highlighted Jaideep’s thoughtful and caring nature. Recalling a moment from their physically demanding action sequences, she revealed, “He made sure his physiotherapist mobilized my body before his own so I wouldn’t get hurt. Jaideep told me I have to develop muscle. I started strength training a year ago.” Her words reflected deep gratitude for his encouragement and support, further reinforcing the importance of genuine friendships in an industry often perceived as competitive and isolating. “I am not part of any alumni or clique, and these friendships matter deeply to me,” she wrote, concluding with a heartfelt “Thank you, Jaideep bhai, baaki can’t say here, but you know.”
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After a five-year hiatus, Paatal Lok returned with its second season on Prime Video on January 17. The show, created by Sudip Sharma, sees the return of Jaideep Ahlawat as Inspector Hathi Ram Chaudhary, a washed-out Delhi police officer still stationed at the Outer Jamuna Paar police station. This time, he navigates a world where the odds remain stacked against him.
The first season of Paatal Lok was hailed for its raw storytelling and nuanced portrayal of social hierarchies. Directed by Avinash Arun and produced by Karnesh Sharma under Clean Slate Filmz, Paatal Lok Season 2 has already generated significant buzz among audiences and critics alike. Ahlawat’s return as the determined and brooding Inspector Hathi Ram Chaudhary has been widely praised, and Shome’s portrayal of Meghna Barua adds another layer of intrigue to the narrative.
With its signature gritty storytelling, Paatal Lok Season 2 continues to delve into India’s underbelly, exploring crime, politics, and social injustice in a way that resonates with viewers. As the show garners acclaim, the off-screen camaraderie between its stars, as reflected in Shome’s heartfelt note, adds a touching dimension to the series’ impact.