After Kota Factory, Netflix and TVF bring another story rooted in classrooms, honouring India’s celebrated educator and the students who dared to dream big. Directed by Pratish Mehta, with Viineet Kumar Singh leading the cast alongside Vikram Kochhar and Girija Oak Godbole, the series is further elevated by strong performances from Satendra Soni, Sonu Kumar Yadav, Anshul Dogra, Samta Sudiksha, Varun Buddhadev, and Naman Jain, who sensitively portray five unique stories of students navigating challenges and rising against all odds.
We spoke to actor Viineet Kumar Singh about this.
Question: We’ve seen many films paying tribute to teachers—Dead Poets Society, Black, The Karate Kid, To Serve With Love—and now Netflix’s Hello Bachcho is also a tribute. How did you prepare yourself for this role, knowing it was a tribute to teachers?
Answer: First of all, I’m very happy to have this opportunity. This show is a tribute to teachers. Every person in life has been touched by a teacher, and my father is a mathematician, so personally, it’s also a tribute to him.
The show highlights many aspects of today’s education system: rising costs, career confusion among children, social pressures, and the difficulties faced by girls and underprivileged students. Preparing for this role meant understanding all of these realities and the sensitivity a teacher needs to have to impact students’ lives positively.
I wanted to understand Alakh Pandey sir’s rhythm, his energy, and how he interacts with students, family, and friends. Beyond classroom videos, I spent time observing his day-to-day life—how he eats, sits, moves, and engages. That helped me capture the authenticity of the character.
I was fortunate because my academic background and my family’s involvement in education gave me a foundation. My father always emphasized honesty, dedication, and understanding cause and effect—like Newton’s law. That philosophy naturally aligned with the teacher’s role in the series.
Question: The series portrays students from diverse and underprivileged backgrounds. How did this influence your understanding of the Indian education system today?
Answer: I’ve lived in this world. I know the struggles. I studied in government schools with excellent teachers, but today many parents prefer private schools, often because education has become so expensive. Education is turning into a luxury rather than a right.
Basic education should be accessible to all children. Government institutions are crucial—they allow students from poor families to study without financial barriers. If we fail to ensure this, we are creating walls for those who want to learn but cannot afford it. Education, healthcare, and security are fundamental rights, just like voting. Everyone deserves access.
Question: In the show, Alakh Pandey sir connects with students empathetically. How did you balance authority, empathy, and vulnerability in your portrayal?
Answer: As an Answer, it’s important to capture all sides of a character. A teacher’s authority is balanced by empathy and vulnerability. For instance, when a child struggles because of family circumstances, the teacher often shields them from harsh realities, allowing them to perform without fear. That balance had to be authentic—showing care without compromising discipline.
Through this approach, students learn responsibility and realize the value of opportunities. It’s not just teaching academics; it’s shaping their perspective and confidence.
Question: Were there any particular storylines or scenes that touched you emotionally?
Answer: Many stories were moving. The story of Naman, Haria, and other students who face societal or familial obstacles was particularly touching. Scenes showing girls wanting to study or play but being restricted really highlighted gender-based challenges. Girls’ potential is often limited by societal norms, but when allowed to pursue their ambitions, they excel—whether in sports, arts, or leadership.
This is a recurring theme—parents and society sometimes inadvertently limit talent. The show reflects this beautifully and emphasizes that education and support can unlock tremendous potential.
Question: What feedback have you received from viewers?
Answer: The feedback has been incredible. Many people have said the series moved them to tears. They connected deeply with the stories and characters. I’m grateful to the entire team—producers Aruna, Sherry, Shreyansh Pandey, Vijay Koshi; writers Abhishek, Varun Ali, Ankit; and director Pratish. Acting is a team game, and this collaboration created something touching and impactful.