From IIT to OTT: The Journey of Panchayat's Secretary

Kavita Mishra

From IIT to OTT: The Journey of Panchayat’s Secretary

Jitendra Kumar, famously known as Jeetu Bhaiya, has carved a niche for himself in the Indian entertainment industry with his outstanding performance as the secretary in the hit web series “Panchayat.” This year, the much-anticipated third season premiered in May, receiving widespread acclaim from audiences. As he approaches his 34th birthday on September 1, let’s explore how this IIT Kharagpur graduate transitioned from engineering to making waves in Bollywood.

Journey from IIT to Bollywood

Jitendra Kumar is no ordinary talent; he’s an actor who breezed into the hearts of millions, swiftly establishing himself in the industry. Beyond “Panchayat,” he has delivered several remarkable films and web series that set him apart from the competition. His repertoire includes titles like “Chaman Bahaar,” “Munna Jhazbati: The Q Tiyapa Intern,” “Chikakek,” “Kota Factory,” “Dry Day,” “Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan,” and “TVF Pitchers,” showcasing his versatility and dedication.

A Roots in an Engineering Family

Born on September 1, 1990, in Khairthal, Rajasthan, Jitendra hails from a family predominantly composed of engineers. His father is a civil engineer, which likely influenced Jitendra’s initial career path. However, from an early age, he showed a flair for comedy and mimicry, often impersonating legends like Amitabh Bachchan and Nana Patekar. His early experiences also included a minor role in a college play based on “Ram Leela,” highlighting his underlying passion for acting amidst his academic commitments.

Cracking the JEE Exam

Jitendra Kumar successfully passed the JEE, one of the most challenging entrance exams in India, achieving admission to IIT Kharagpur where he pursued a degree in Civil Engineering. Despite the rigorous demands of his engineering studies, his passion for acting never waned. He sought opportunities to hone his skills through college programs, plays, and street dramas.

Discovering His Acting Talents

During his time at IIT, Jitendra’s skills began to shine as he participated in various college events. A pivotal moment in his career came when he met Vishwapati Sarkar, Executive Creative Director at The Viral Fever (TVF), who played a crucial role in guiding him towards a successful acting career. With mentorship from seasoned professionals like Vishwapati, Jitendra was able to channel his talents into entertaining performances that resonated with the youth.

The Struggles of Unemployment

After graduating from IIT Kharagpur, Jitendra, like many fresh graduates, faced a challenging three-month job search. Eventually, he secured a position with a Japanese construction company in Bengaluru. However, his passion for acting proved too strong; he opted to leave his steady job after being invited to work on a TVF project. That decision paid off when he starred in “Munna Jhazbati,” which catapulted him into the limelight.

Making His Mark in Bollywood

Following his breakthrough role, Jitendra received numerous offers from Bollywood. He made his film debut alongside Ayushmann Khurrana in “Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan,” where his performance garnered significant praise. He also gained immense popularity for his role in “Kota Factory,” which solidified his status as Jeetu Bhaiya among fans.

Struggles and Support System

During his early days, Jitendra juggled teaching physics at a coaching institute to make ends meet. This income helped him pay for his accommodation while pursuing his acting dreams. His parents, while initially apprehensive about his decision to leave a stable job, eventually became supportive of his endeavors in the entertainment industry. Their encouragement played a vital role during the tough times, allowing Jitendra to focus on his passion.

Aspect Details
Name Jitendra Kumar
Date of Birth September 1, 1990
Education B.Tech in Civil Engineering from IIT Kharagpur
Known For Panchayat, Kota Factory, Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan
Career Start By working with The Viral Fever and TVF Productions

Jitendra Kumar’s journey from a small town to becoming a celebrated figure in Bollywood exemplifies dedication, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams. As he continues to impress audiences with his talent, fans eagerly anticipate what the future holds for this multi-talented actor.

Kavita Mishra

Designation: Entertainment Editor Education: B.A. in Film Studies, University of Mumbai Bio: Kavita Mishra brings her love for cinema and pop culture to the forefront as the Entertainment Editor at India Rag. She has over 10 years of experience covering the entertainment industry, including film reviews, celebrity interviews, and event coverage. Kavita’s engaging writing style and industry insights make her content a favorite among readers. Email: [email protected]