Triptii Dimri, known for her roles in films like "Laila Majnu," "Bulbbul," and "Qala," is poised to break away from her established "girl next door" image with her upcoming role in Vishal Bhardwaj's "O'Romeo". The film, set to release on February 13, 2026, will see Dimri share the screen with Shahid Kapoor for the first time.
Dimri's journey in Bollywood began in 2017 with a small role in "Mom". She gained recognition for her lead role in "Laila Majnu" (2018) and further critical acclaim for her performances in Anvita Dutt's "Bulbbul" (2020) and "Qala" (2022). These roles often portrayed her as a demure and innocent character, establishing her as the quintessential "girl next door" in the industry. Her role in the commercially successful film "Animal" (2023) earned her even more popularity.
However, "O'Romeo" promises to showcase a different side of Dimri's acting prowess. The film is reportedly based on the real-life events of gangster Hussain Ustara and Ashraf Khan, also known as Sapna Didi. Kapoor plays Haseen Ustara, a hitman who falls in love with Afsha, played by Dimri. Given the dark and intense nature often associated with Bhardwaj's films, "O'Romeo" is expected to be a departure from Dimri's previous roles.
Vishal Bhardwaj's films are known for their strong characters, compelling narratives, and exploration of complex themes. In "O'Romeo," love is expected to come with a darker, more profound aura, requiring Dimri to deliver emotional depth and match Kapoor's charisma. The actress will be seen in a sari with minimal makeup, in what appears to be a regular narrative scene, suggesting a quieter, performance-driven role.
The film has already courted controversy, with Hussain Ustara's daughter accusing the filmmakers of misrepresenting her father's life and his relationship with Sapna Didi and claiming that the family's consent was not taken. Bhardwaj has defended the film, stating that it is based on a book and that the language used in the film carries a certain poetry.
"O'Romeo" marks a significant milestone in Triptii Dimri's career, presenting her with the opportunity to break free from her established image and explore new dimensions as an actress. This film is her first collaboration with both Vishal Bhardwaj and Shahid Kapoor, adding to the anticipation surrounding her performance.
