Kota Factory Season 3: Jitendra Kumar Talks About Mental Health and Academic Pressure
The critically acclaimed series "Kota Factory" has made a much-anticipated return to Netflix with its third season, delving deeper into the high-pressure environment of IIT preparation. The show continues to shed light on the intense academic world while addressing crucial issues such as mental health.
In a recent interview, Jitendra Kumar, who portrays the beloved mentor Jeetu Bhaiya, shared his insights on the new season. Kumar emphasized the importance of mental health and the cultural taboos surrounding therapy.
"Mental health issues are still considered taboo in our society," Kumar remarked. "With the rise of digitalization, we have become social animals living in isolation. Mental health should not be taboo at this time, and we need to openly discuss it. I'm glad to be part of a show that addresses this sensitive topic."
Kumar also discussed the meticulous preparation required to bring his character to life. "I had numerous discussions with writers Abhishek Yadav and Saurabh Khurana about making this fictional character feel real. Although I have teaching experience, Jeetu Bhaiya is larger than life, staying connected with students in a way that's rare in real life. The challenge was to portray this character authentically," he explained.
He provided an example of this dedication, highlighting a scene involving a lecture on the word 'shringaar.' "We discussed it for 2-3 hours before shooting. I wanted my character to be genuine and relatable, not preachy," Kumar said.
Kumar also spoke about the inspirational dialogues from Jeetu Bhaiya that resonate with him personally. "'Taiyari hi jeet hai' (The preparation itself is the victory) is a dialogue I find very valuable. Another one, 'Tu late hai, akela nahi' (You are late, but not alone), highlights the shared journey of students in this competitive race," he shared.
Season 3 of "Kota Factory" delves into the mental health struggles faced by students preparing for IIT exams, emphasizing the significance of mentorship and the harsh realities of high-pressure academics. The season continues the narrative of Jeetu Bhaiya as he grapples with the responsibilities of being a mentor, especially in the aftermath of a student's tragic suicide in season 2.
Viewers will also see the return of characters Vaibhav, Balmukund, and Uday as they navigate friendships, academics, and romantic relationships. Adding to the ensemble cast, actor Tillotama Shome joins Season 3, playing the role of a chemistry teacher.
"Kota Factory" remains a poignant portrayal of the academic pressures and mental health challenges faced by students, resonating deeply with audiences and continuing its impactful storytelling in its third season.
- PTC PUNJABI