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Bollywood News Updated May 19, 2026

Akanksha Puri on playing Meetu Punjaban in Inspector Avinash 2: Wanted to do something fearless

Actress Akanksha Puri plays Meetu Punjaban, a dancer turned informer, in "Inspector Avinash 2". She says the role allowed her to explore a fearless and emotionally intense side as an actor. Akanksha praises co-star Randeep Hooda for his dedication and honesty in every scene. Director Neerraj Pathak compares Hooda's work ethic to that of the late Irrfan Khan.

Akanksha Puri on her 'Inspector Avinash 2' character: I wanted to do something fearless

Mumbai, May 19

Actress Akanksha Puri gave a praiseworthy performance as Meetu Punjaban, dancer turned informer, in Randeep Hooda fronted "Inspector Avinash 2".

Speaking about her next, Akanksha revealed that she wanted to do something fearless and different, and the project allowed her to do just that.

Opening up some more about the character, Akanksha said, "I wanted to do something fearless and different. This role allowed me to step away from my comfort zone and explore a much stronger and emotionally intense side of myself as an actor."

Akanksha added that playing Meetu Punjaban required a certain level of confidence and emotional understanding. She shared that the character helped her to discover a new level of versatility and performance as an artist.

Lauding her co-star Hooda for his dedication and sincerity towards his craft, she added, "Randeep brings so much honesty into every scene. Working with him was a great experience because you naturally become more focused and involved as a performer."

Earlier, "Inspector Avinash 2" director Neerraj Pathak also went on to compare Hooda with renowned actor Irrfan Khan.

He admitted that Hooda ended up spoiling him with his impeccable work ethic and eye for excellence.

Neerraj Pathak told IANS, "I can say that he has spoiled me, actually. Now, when I cast someone, and I think of doing the work, I think, 'Who will have so much dedication? Who will do it so well?' So, with him, it was an effortless combination for me. I have worked with Irrfan Khan. Now, my bond with Irrfan has been there for years. We had done a television show a long time ago on Doordarshan, and Irrfan had 26 episodes in it. I directed it. Then I promised him that if I ever make a film, I'll take you in it. He said, 'You'll forget'. But when I made a film with Sunny Deol and Irrfan, 'Right Yaaa Wrong'. So, the fun I had while working with Irrfan, I had the same with Randeep".

"Inspector Avinash 2" premiered on May 15 on JioHotstar.

— IANS

Reader Comments

Priya S

Finally an actress who chooses roles that push boundaries instead of just looking glamorous! Meetu Punjaban sounds like a character with layers. More power to Akanksha for stepping out of her comfort zone. 👏

James A

Randeep Hooda is truly a gem of Indian cinema. The comparison to Irrfan Khan is high praise indeed, but Hooda has earned it through years of dedication. Looking forward to watching this series.

Neha E

Love that Akanksha is choosing fearless roles. But honestly, I wish the industry would write more original, strong female characters instead of just 'the dancer turned informer' trope. Still, good for her! ✨

Arjun K

The director's comparison of Randeep Hooda to Irrfan Khan is no small thing. Irrfan was irreplaceable, but Hooda brings his own brand of honesty to the screen. This show sounds promising!

Emma D

Akanksha Puri is proving that she's more than just a pretty face. This role sounds intense and emotionally demanding. I'm excited to see her performance—fearlessness in acting is rare these days.

Vikram M

Randeep Hooda is a powerhouse actor. The fact that the director compares him to Irrfan Khan says everything about his commitment. And Akanksha seems to have found the perfect

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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