Actor Ronit Ashra has brought the character of Nikhil Saxena in Swipe Crime to life with a nuanced performance that’s winning hearts. Produced by Versatile Motion Pictures, the Amazon MX Player series explores the perils and promise of social media while weaving in a gripping narrative of cybercrime.
“Hi, I’m Nikhil Saxena, the ‘chota packet, bada dhamaka’ of the group,” Ronit introduces his character. Nikhil, an IITian with a minimalist, nerdy style, dreams of independence while grappling with anxiety and authority. “I relate to his awkwardness and bursts of anger. The challenge was portraying his hot-and-cold reactions authentically, from eye-rolls to bursts of fear or excitement.”
The audience has embraced Nikhil’s quirks, with many resonating with his struggles. “Nikhil’s fear of getting into trouble, his perfectionism, and his occasional outbursts are traits people find relatable. It’s rewarding to see viewers connect with these layers.”
On the larger themes of the show, Ronit reflects, “Social media is both a boon and a bane. It helped me gain confidence and opportunities as an artist. But the pressures of maintaining an online persona and the risks of cybercrime are real. That’s something our show highlights with authenticity.”
The camaraderie off-screen also played a big part in Ronit’s experience. “Our cast was like a big family. Every night, they’d barge into my room for Uno games. Those are memories I’ll always cherish.”
Ronit’s dedication to his craft shines through in Swipe Crime. He appreciates the team’s support, saying, “As a newcomer, I felt welcomed and respected on set. The crew’s warmth made me feel like part of a family.”
With Swipe Crime, Ronit Ashra has established himself as an actor to watch. His portrayal of Nikhil Saxena, with all his quirks and growth, is a standout performance in a series that’s as thrilling as it is thought-provoking.
