Rajiv Thakur, known primarily as a comedian, has garnered widespread acclaim for his role as a terrorist in the new Netflix series IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack, directed by Anubhav Sinha. The series, based on the 1999 hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight IC 814, features Thakur as 'Chief', the mastermind behind the operation, showcasing his versatility and depth as an actor. Critics and audiences have been surprised by Thakur's transformation from comedy to a dark, antagonist role, with many praising his performance as a significant departure from his comedic roots. Thakur expressed gratitude for the opportunity, highlighting the support he received from director Sinha and casting director Mukesh Chhabra, who believed in his potential. The show has received positive reviews for its gripping portrayal of the historical hijack, featuring a strong ensemble cast including Naseeruddin Shah and Pankaj Kapur. Thakur’s ability to convincingly portray a villain has opened new avenues for his acting career, demonstrating that he is more than just a comedic performer.