Actor Nishant Dahiya Faces Backlash from Male Viewers for ‘Mrs.’ Role

Portrayal of Diwakar Kumar in Sanya Malhotra’s ‘Mrs.’ Provokes Strong Reactions, Including Abusive Messages

The recent release of the family drama ‘Mrs.’ on ZEE5 has sparked significant discussions, particularly regarding Nishant Dahiya’s portrayal of Diwakar Kumar, a character emblematic of patriarchal attitudes. The film, directed by Arati Kadav, features Sanya Malhotra as Richa Sharma, a talented dancer navigating the oppressive dynamics of her marital household.

In an interview, Dahiya revealed that his depiction of the unsupportive husband led to a barrage of intense reactions, notably from male viewers. He recounted receiving messages such as, “You dumb*k actor, go and eat rat poison! Die somewhere, you mother**er!”

The actor expressed surprise at the male-dominated criticism, suggesting that the character’s traits may have struck a personal chord with them

Conversely, female viewers have commended Dahiya’s performance, distinguishing their disdain for the character from their appreciation of his acting skills. This dichotomy in audience reactions underscores the film’s impact in challenging entrenched societal norms and sparking conversations about gender roles within familial settings.

‘Mrs.’ is a Hindi adaptation of the acclaimed Malayalam film ‘The Great Indian Kitchen’ and also stars Kanwaljit Singh, Aparna Ghoshal, and Nitya Moyal. The narrative delves into the life of a woman compelled to abandon her aspirations to conform to her new family’s patriarchal expectations.

Since its release on February 7, 2025, the film has been lauded for its unflinching portrayal of domestic power dynamics and the performances of its lead actors.