Jitendra Kumar, the actor known for his portrayal of relatable characters in shows like "Kota Factory" and "Panchayat," has opened up about the "Jitu Bhaiya" tag and the types of roles he is drawn to. Kumar's journey from an IIT Kharagpur student to a celebrated actor is a testament to his versatility and ability to connect with audiences.
Kumar initially gained recognition through TVF (The Viral Fever), where he starred in several videos that went viral, including "Munna Jazbaati: The Q-tiya Intern." However, it was his role as Jeetu Bhaiya in "Kota Factory" that cemented his place in the hearts of many. The character, a mentor and teacher at a coaching institute, resonated with viewers due to the lack of mentor figures in their own lives. Kumar believes that Jeetu Bhaiya acts as a support system for students navigating the challenges of competitive exams. He recalls his own coaching days, where teachers taught large classes and had limited time to understand individual student problems.
The actor's portrayal of Abhishek Tripathi, a city-bred engineering graduate turned Panchayat secretary in the Amazon Prime series "Panchayat," has further solidified his image as a relatable and inspiring figure. Middle-aged viewers see Abhishek as the kind of leader they wish existed in real life – someone capable and kind. "Panchayat" has garnered a loyal fanbase for its blend of humor, heartfelt emotion, and subtle social commentary, capturing the raw and vibrant realities of rural life.
"Panchayat Season 4" is set to premiere on June 24, 2025, exclusively on Amazon Prime Video, continuing Abhishek's journey as he takes on new responsibilities and challenges in the village of Phulera. The new season will focus on the Panchayat elections and feature drama between characters Manju Devi and Kranti Devi. Sweet moments between Abhishek and Rinky are also anticipated. The returning cast members include Neena Gupta and Raghubir Yadav.
Kumar has expressed his enjoyment in playing romantic characters, finding them very relatable. He was recently featured in the music video "Keh Dona" with Manpreet Kaur, and has been part of the music video, "Tu Hi Tu".
Despite the love and recognition he receives for his roles as Jeetu Bhaiya and Sachiv Ji, Kumar remains grounded. He acknowledges the confusion that sometimes arises when people call him "Jeetu Bhaiya," wondering if they are addressing him or the character. While he appreciates the respect and emotion associated with the moniker, he clarifies that his name is Jeetu and that people have added "Bhaiya" on their own. He also humbly reminds fans that he is just an actor and not a teacher, while acknowledging it as a huge compliment that they consider him as such because of his character.
Jitendra Kumar's ability to embody characters that inspire and resonate with audiences has made him a beloved figure in the Indian entertainment industry. His performances in "Kota Factory" and "Panchayat" have not only entertained but also sparked conversations about education, mentorship, and the challenges of rural life. As he continues to explore different genres and roles, Kumar's fans eagerly await his future projects, ready to embrace the new characters he brings to life.
