Mastram Web Series Cast and Crew

“Mastram” is a Hindi-language web series that premiered in 2020, streaming on MX Player. The series offers a fictionalized portrayal of Rajaram, a clerk turned author in the 1980s, who writes under the pseudonym ‘Mastram.’ His stories, filled with passion and intrigue, gain immense popularity, reflecting the socio-cultural milieu of the Hindi heartland.

Main Cast:

• Anshuman Jha as Rajaram/Mastram: Anshuman Jha portrays the protagonist, Rajaram, a modest clerk who transforms into ‘Mastram,’ an author whose evocative tales captivate readers. Jha’s performance delves into the complexities of a man leading a double life, balancing societal norms with his creative pursuits.
• Tara-Alisha Berry as Madhu: Tara-Alisha Berry plays Madhu, Rajaram’s supportive wife, who remains unaware of her husband’s clandestine literary endeavors. Berry’s portrayal adds depth to the narrative, highlighting the personal sacrifices and emotional nuances in their relationship.
• Jagat Rawat as Mama: Jagat Rawat embodies Mama, Rajaram’s uncle, whose traditional views often clash with Rajaram’s unconventional career choices, adding a layer of familial tension to the storyline.
• Aakash Dabhade as Gopal: Aakash Dabhade portrays Gopal, Rajaram’s close confidant, who becomes an accomplice in his literary journey, providing both comic relief and steadfast support.
• Rani Chatterjee as Raani: Rani Chatterjee plays Raani, a character inspired by one of Mastram’s stories, symbolizing the allure and mystique that his writings evoke among readers.
• Vipin Sharma as Durga Prasad: Vipin Sharma takes on the role of Durga Prasad, a publisher who recognizes the potential in Mastram’s writings, instrumental in bringing his stories to a wider audience
• Nehal Vadoliya as Nanda: Nehal Vadoliya portrays Nanda, another muse from Mastram’s tales, reflecting the diverse characters that populate his imaginative world.

Supporting Cast:

• Leena Sharma as Madhu’s Mother: Leena Sharma plays Madhu’s mother, representing the societal expectations and familial pressures prevalent in the era.
• Harshita Kushwaha as Asha: Harshita Kushwaha embodies Asha, adding to the ensemble of characters that influence Rajaram’s life and writings.
• Abha Paul as Sarita Nair: Abha Paul portrays Sarita Nair, a character from Mastram’s stories, contributing to the series’ exploration of desire and fantasy.
• Kamalika Chanda as Secretary: Kamalika Chanda plays the role of a secretary, further enriching the tapestry of characters that interact with Rajaram/Mastram.

Crew:

• Director: The series is directed by Akhilesh Jaiswal, who brings to life the vibrant and controversial world of Mastram, capturing the essence of the 1980s Hindi heartland.
• Writer: Aryan Sunil serves as the writer, crafting a narrative that intertwines Rajaram’s real-life experiences with his fictional creations, offering a commentary on the societal norms of the time.
• Producer: The production is helmed by Almighty Motion Picture, ensuring the series’ authentic portrayal of the period and its cultural nuances.

Critical Reception:

“Mastram” has garnered attention for its bold themes and portrayal of the duality between an author’s mundane life and his provocative writings. The performances, particularly by Anshuman Jha and Tara-Alisha Berry, have been praised for their depth and authenticity. However, the series has also faced criticism for its explicit content, sparking discussions on the portrayal of erotica in Indian web series.

Where to Watch:

“Mastram” is available for streaming on MX Player, offering viewers a glimpse into the life of a writer whose stories captivated a generation, blending reality with fiction in a compelling narrative.