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Actor Khushwant Walia , best known for his breakout turn as Rubel Deewan in the hit drama Pyaar Ka Dard Hai Meetha Meetha Pyaara Pyaara , calls typecasting a “survival strategy” in Mumbai’s cutthroat entertainment scene.

“Typecasting is often criticized, yet in saturated markets like Mumbai it becomes a survival strategy,” Walia says. “Early in comedy or acting, being labeled ‘the funny one’ gives you visibility when obscurity is the bigger risk. It helps channels, producers, and audiences place you quickly.”

The actor, who was last seen in Jaane Anjaane Hum Mile and has been part of shows like Mangal Lakshmi, Mere Rang Mein Rangne Waali, and Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, believes the real issue isn’t the label itself, but how one uses it.

“Rather than fighting the label, use it as leverage. Build credibility, financial stability, and a fanbase first. Once you’re established after 5-6 years, you gain freedom to experiment,” he explains. “Being known for something beats being known for nothing. The real danger isn’t typecasting, it’s remaining undefined. Use the label to open doors, not to lock yourself in.”

Walia is clear that for newcomers, especially those arriving in Mumbai from smaller towns, the first few years are about survival.

“In the first few years of your career, being typecast isn’t always a bad thing. If your first show works, the channel, producers, and audience will remember you for that one thing, and that recognition actually helps you get established,” he notes. “In competitive markets, standing out for something is better than being overlooked entirely. The label gives you work, visibility, and a chance to prove yourself.”

His advice for outsiders trying to make it in the city: play the long game.

“For people coming to Mumbai from the outside, it takes about 5 to 6 years to secure yourself. In that phase, using social media and leaning into what you’re known for is smart. Once you’ve built credibility and some savings, then you can start experimenting and expanding,” Walia says.

“So early on, being seen doing similar things isn’t a trap. It’s a foundation.”