Divyendu Sharma or Divyenndu is one of the most versatile and intense actors of his generation. Celebrated for his dynamic and captivating performances ranging from the loveable “Liquid” of “Pyaar Ka Punchnama” to the murderous “Munna” of Mirzapur
Early Life
Divyendu Sharma was born on June 19, 1983, in Delhi. He initially struggled academically, scoring just 49% in his high school exams. He later excelled, achieving 84% in his 12th standard exams after switching to arts. After completing his school education, he joined Delhi University’s Kirori Mal College, where he graduated with a degree in political science. It was during this time that Divyenndu’s interest in acting took a serious turn. He was actively involved in the college’s drama society, “The Players,” which gave him a platform to hone his skills and fuel his passion for the performing arts. During this time, he directed and acted in plays like “Goal” and “Hawalat.”
After completing his graduation, Divyendu decided to pursue his dream of acting professionally. He enrolled in the prestigious Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) in Pune, where he completed a two-year diploma in acting.
Divyendu Sharma on Screen
Divyendu Sharma’s journey in films was not an easy one; he struggled to get a chance for many years, played tiny roles, and also worked as an extra in films like Aaja Nachle (2007). He has done TV commercials and a short film, “In Thin Air (2006),” with Vivek Mushran
Divyendu’s breakthrough came with Luv Ranjan’s 2011 hit comedy “Pyaar Ka Punchnama.” His performance earned him the Screen Award for Best Male Debut. His character, “Liquid,” is still a fan favourite. But despite the success of the film and exceptional acting, he didn’t get the offers he desired. Chashme Baddoor (2013), a remake directed by David Dhawan, featured him as Omi, a poet, earning audience appreciation.
The Slow Start
Divyendu Sharma continued to excel in whatever chances he got. Some of his notable roles came in films like “Ravindra Gautam (2014),” “Dilliwali Zaalim Girlfriend (2015),” “Toilet: Ek Prem Katha (2017), “2016: The End (2017),” and “Batti Gul Metre Chalu (2018).”
His performances were characterised by a romantic charm and a kind-hearted persona, which became his signature in the industry. Films like Mazdoor (1983), Ghar Ek Mandir (1984), Raaj Tilak (1984), Hip Hip Hurray (1984), Ghar Dwaar (1985), Faasle (1985), Arjun (1985), Teri Meherbaniyan (1985), Ilzaam (1986), Pyar Ka Mandir (1988), and Waaris (1988) are a few examples where his acting prowess was evident.
Mirzapur
However, it was his portrayal of Munna Tripathi in the Amazon Prime Original series “Mirzapur (2018), that catapulted him to nationwide fame. His character, a troubled gangster with a complex narrative, resonated with audiences and critics alike, establishing Divyenndu as a force to be reckoned with in the digital streaming space. He also acted in webseries like Bicchoo Ka Khel (2000), Salt City (2002), and The Railway Men (2023).”
Riding on the success of Mirzapur, Divyenndu started getting interesting film roles, which include “Badnaam Gali (2019),” “Kanpuriye (2019),” “Shukranu (2020),” “Mere Desh Ki Dharti (2022),” “Odd Couple (2022),” “Thai Massage (2022),” and “Madgaon Express (2024).” One off his other memorable performance came in The Railway Men (2023), a miniseries on Netflix. In the series about the Bhopal Gas Tragedy, he played a robber who pretends to be a policeman.
His choice of roles often challenges the status quo and pushes the boundaries of conventional cinema. His film “Odd Couple” exemplifies this, as it navigates through the nuances of age and relationships, further solidifying his position as an actor of substance.
Personal Life
Divyendu Sharma is happily married to Akanksha Sharma,The couple has no children at the time. They maintain a low profile, with Divyenndu focusing on his career. In 2019, he dropped his surname, citing numerology and a desire to reduce caste divisions, a bold personal choice. He opted out of Pyaar Ka Punchnama 2 (2015), feeling he had exhausted the Liquid character.
Divyenndu Sharma on IMDB
