Mukesh Chhabra Opens Up on The Traitors: Praises Purav Jha and Reveals Real-Life Betrayal

Casting director Mukesh Chhabra recently made headlines, not for a new film, but for his experience on the reality show The Traitors. Known for discovering talents like Sushant Singh Rajput and Rajkummar Rao, Mukesh joined the show to try something new. But what unfolded turned out to be more than just a game—it mirrored real-life betrayal for him.

Impressed by Purav Jha’s Performance

Mukesh had nothing but praise for fellow contestant Purav Jha. He admitted he was “very, very impressed” by Purav’s gameplay, especially how naturally he played the role of a traitor without giving away any hints. “I messaged him saying you performed really well. I love him, but I hate him a lot. But I love him so much,” Mukesh said in an interview, showing how conflicted yet entertained he was by Purav’s strategy. Even as someone who trains actors, Mukesh was caught off guard. “How did I miss that? That’s the biggest learning for me.”

He acknowledged that the show truly tested his instincts, and even though he was eliminated early, he felt it taught him something valuable about human nature and trust.

The Game Hits Close to Home

Interestingly, Mukesh also opened up about a real-life betrayal that happened to him. After the show, he shared that someone from his own casting team, someone he mentored and trusted, ended up stealing important company data. This person used that information to start a rival casting company.

“It felt like a real-life traitor moment,” Mukesh revealed. “I groomed him, gave him opportunities, and then he backstabbed me. I was shocked.” This experience made his time on The Traitors feel all the more personal. He admitted that trust is a tricky thing—whether in a reality show or in business. “You never know who might betray you,” he added.

Would He Return to the Show?

Despite the betrayal—both in-game and in life—Mukesh hasn’t been discouraged. In fact, he’s open to returning to The Traitors for another round. “I’d definitely go back,” he said. “Now I know how to play the game.” For Mukesh Chhabra, The Traitors wasn’t just a reality show. It was a reality check. And it reminded him—and all of us—how important it is to be aware of who we trust, even when they seem close.

Traitor is a psychological reality show hosted by Karan Johar featuring various personalities from actors to influencers to other fields. The show is still running, and the final set of episodes is to be released this Thursday. The show has received a great response overall.