Neil Nitin Mukesh on preparing for ‘Hai Junoon’: ‘Music runs in my blood’-OxBig News Network

Neil Nitin Mukesh with his father Nitin Mukesh; poster of ‘Hai Junoon’
| Photo Credit: @neilnitinmukesh/Instagram and Special Arrangement

Streaming giant Jio Hotstar is all set to premiere the musical drama series Hai Junoon! Dream. Dare. Dominate on its platform on May 16. Directed by Abhishek Sharma, the series stars Jacqueline Fernandez and Neil Nitin Mukesh in the lead.

Centred around themes of passion, individuality and friendship, the series revolves around a musical competition in which two arch rivals — Misfits and Supersonics — collide. Neil plays the role of Gagan, who, according to a press release by the makers, “serves as the soul of Supersonics and embodies music itself, channeling rhythm, emotion, and raw intensity.”

Speaking about preparing for the role, Neil, son of playback singer Nitin Mukesh and grandson of late veteran singer Mukesh, said, “Music runs in my blood. When I was young, I had the privilege of training under my grandfather’s Guruji. That passion for music never left me, even after I chose acting as my profession. So, when I was offered the role of a pianist, I immediately jumped at it. It’s the first time I’m playing a character so closely aligned with who I am, at least when it comes to passion.”

Neil added that he closely worked with director Abhishek to develop Gagan’s style as well as his emotional arc. “I also drew inspiration from a number of artists, including my father, Nitin Mukesh, and other legendary singers,” he added.

Interestingly, ‘Hai Junoon’ was the title of a song in Neil’s 2009 film, New York, co-starring John Abraham, Katrina Kaif and Irrfan Khan.

The cast of Hai Junoon! Dream. Dare. Dominate also features Boman Irani, Siddharth Nigam, Priyank Sharma, Sumedh Mudgalkar, Kunwar Amar, Mohan Pandey, Elisha Mayor, Sanchit Kundra, Santana Roach, Devangshi Sen, Aryan Katoch, Anusha Mani, Bhavin Bhanushali, Yukti Thareja, Arnav Magoo and Saachi Bindra. The series is produced by Jio Creative Labs.