Guwahati, Aug 17: Assam-born actor and filmmaker Rajdeep Choudhury is earning attention for his quietly compelling performance as Rajneesh in the sci-fi thriller ‘Simulacra’, now streaming free on Waves OTT.
Produced by Philosia Films, with producers Shrikant Kadam and Pravin Pingat, and directed by Pankaj Sawant, ‘Simulacra’ explores a futuristic world where memories can be controlled, edited and even erased through advanced technology. At the heart of the story is Rajdeep’s character, Rajneesh, inspired by the teachings and worldview associated with Osho.
In a world increasingly driven by artificial intelligence, neural chips and digital control, Rajneesh stands apart. He refuses to surrender to technology and instead believes in the power of human consciousness, self-awareness and genuine human connection, becoming the film’s moral and emotional anchor.
Rajdeep’s portrayal is subtle, restrained and deeply layered. Rather than relying on dramatic dialogue or exaggerated gestures, he allows silence, expression and reaction to communicate the character’s inner world. His understated approach brings a distinctly British style of screen acting to the film. Rajneesh appears from the beginning until the end, gradually connecting the narrative like the final pieces of a jigsaw puzzle.
Rajdeep’s journey to ‘Simulacra’ is also a reminder that relationships matter in the film industry. Mumbai-based casting director Rohan Mapuskar cast Rajdeep after fellow FTII alumnus and close friend Tarun Gahlot, originally considered for the role, recommended him when he became unavailable because of another project.
“This film reminded me that relationships truly matter in our industry. Your work is important, but so are the people who believe in you. If my friend Tarun hadn’t trusted me as an actor and as a person, I don’t think he would have recommended me for this role. I’m grateful to Tarun and to Rohan for placing their faith in me,” Rajdeep said.
Rajdeep’s co-stars include Akshara Haasan and acclaimed actor Satyajeet Dubey. One of Rajdeep’s biggest takeaways from ‘Simulacra’ was the friendships he built during the journey. He developed a close bond with Akshara Haasan while filming, and the friendship has continued long after production wrapped.
“One of the nicest things about working on Simulacra was the friendships that came out of it. Akshara has become a genuinely good friend, and it’s wonderful when a co-star becomes someone you continue to stay in touch with beyond the film. Satyajeet and I have also met several times since shooting, and whenever we catch up, we inevitably end up talking about cinema, storytelling and performances. Those conversations are always inspiring. It’s a privilege to work with talented people and leave not just with a film, but with friendships that continue long after the cameras stop rolling,” he added.
Beyond acting, Rajdeep’s directorial debut ‘Chalo India with Eric Ji: Varanasi’ was officially selected for Indian Panorama at the International Film Festival of India, Goa. His second documentary, ‘Chalo India with Eric Ji: Mizoram’, screened at the Oscar-qualifying Raindance Film Festival in London. He will also appear later this year in the British feature film ‘A Teacher’s Gift’ in the lead role.
Speaking about the release, Rajdeep said:
“I hope everyone watches ‘Simulacra’ on Waves. It is a film that makes you think about where humanity is heading in an age dominated by technology. Portraying Rajneesh has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career, and I hope audiences connect with the character and the film.”
‘Simulacra’ is now streaming free on Waves OTT.