The incredible success of hit drama serial Ghum Hai Kisikey Pyaar Mein is illustrated by it recently crossing 800 episodes. A fan favourite from the Star Plus show, also available on streaming site Hotstar, is the character portrayed by acclaimed actor Mridul Kumar.
It adds to his wide variety of work on television, which has also included Jaat Na Pucho Prem Ki, Na Aana Is Des Laado, Shastri Sisters, Nimki Mukhiya and Pyaar Ka Dard Hai Meetha Meetha Pyaara Pyaara.
Eastern Eye caught up with the versatile small screen star to discuss his journey so far, the latest show, dream role, acting hero, and the secret of a great performance.
What first connected you to acting?
I was initially fascinated by school theatre. I was clapping in the audience while witnessing my friends perform, so I was drawn to acting at that moment.
Which role has been closest to your heart?
All the roles I’ve done are close to my heart, but there is one from a show in which I played Krantikari, the primary protagonist. That character was fantastic. Ultimately, if I like the character, I’m willing to play it.
How is the experience of working on Ghum Hai Kisikey Pyar Meiin?
It has been a fantastic ride so far, with an excellent crew, great production, wonderful set-up, and great co-actors. Ghum Hai Kisikey Pyar Meiin has been a lot of fun, with good work, recognition, and fantastic ratings.
How does this character compare to others you have played?
If we compare, then every character I’ve played is different. I’ve played a negative role, cop, the main protagonist, and a comic character. As a result, each role is unique. You can’t compare them. You just try to do your best.
Which has been your most memorable moment while working on this show?
There are numerous. But last year, the entire team and actors embarked on a two-month outdoor shoot. That one stood out most. We used to chill in the room after wrapping up for the day. We’d been together for two months. It was frantic at times, but we had the pleasure of shooting and spending time together as a family. Then we used to shoot the next day with full energy. That was my standout moment.
Why do you think this show is so popular?
It is popular because people can relate to it. They have a connection with all the characters. That’s probably what people like. The writing is excellent, as are the dialogues and, of course, the performances of all the actors.
What do you enjoy the most watching from an audience point of view?
I like watching thriller or comedy genres the most.
Do you have a dream role?
Yes, I do have many dream roles, but one that stands out is Sunil Dutt’s character in Mother India. That’s the kind of role I’d like to play.
Who do you consider as your own acting hero?
Pankaj Kapoor sahab is my acting hero since he is one of the best performers we have. As a result, I always look up to him. It will mean a lot to me if I can even get close to his acting abilities.
What is the secret of a great acting performance?
The secret of great acting is only, ‘don’t act’. Make it so real that it doesn’t feel like
acting at all.
What inspires you?
What motivates me is to get up every morning and begin my day with the shoot is reach the set, do my makeup, and prepare myself to get into the skin of the character. The whole process of performing, and being around co-actors, directors, and crew inspires me.
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire
Rahul Bhatt sparks controversy over 'insensitive' remarks about sisters Alia and Pooja Bhatt
Rahul Bhatt, fitness trainer and son of veteran filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, has found himself at the centre of a social media storm following controversial remarks about his half-sister, Alia Bhatt. In a recent interview, Rahul drew comparisons between Alia and their older sister Pooja Bhatt, calling the latter more talented, attractive, and principled.
The comments, which many have labelled inappropriate and insensitive, have sparked widespread criticism online. During the interview, Rahul stated, “In my opinion, she (Alia) is not even half of what my real sister Pooja is. Not in talent, not in looks, not in terms of being sexy. In front of my sister, she is ‘paani kam chai’ (watery tea). Amongst the siblings, the most talented and the most moralistic is Pooja.”
Social media users reacted strongly, questioning why Rahul would compare his sisters in such personal terms. Several users were particularly disturbed by his reference to their appearance and sex appeal, pointing out that such comparisons within a family cross boundaries of propriety. One comment read, “This is disturbing. Why talk about your sisters like that? It’s not just weird, it’s wrong.” Another post said, “There’s nothing respectful about comparing your siblings’ attractiveness in public.”
The backlash also reignited conversation around a decades-old controversy involving Mahesh Bhatt and Pooja Bhatt. Rahul was asked about the infamous 1990s magazine cover where the father-daughter duo shared a kiss, which had stirred public outrage at the time. Dismissing the criticism, Rahul said, “It doesn’t make any difference. It’s like water off a duck’s back. We know the truth, and we’ve seen everything since childhood.”
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire, with critics saying it reflects a broader issue of the Bhatt family being insensitive to public perception and boundaries. Many users questioned the need for bringing up old incidents in a bid to defend new and equally questionable statements.
As of now, neither Alia Bhatt nor Pooja Bhatt has issued any public response to Rahul’s remarks. Both actors, known for their significant contributions to Indian cinema, have typically kept family matters private despite living in the public eye.
This episode has also sparked debate over the role of public figures in maintaining respect when discussing family matters in the media. Observers say such comments, especially when involving women’s appearance and personal qualities, reinforce problematic attitudes and fuel unnecessary controversies.
While Rahul Bhatt is not as prominent in the entertainment industry as his father or sisters, his comments have made headlines and placed the Bhatt family in the spotlight for reasons beyond their creative work. For many, this serves as a reminder that public platforms come with responsibility, and that family ties should not be trivialised or dissected for attention or comparison.
The backlash is unlikely to subside soon, especially as fans and followers of Alia and Pooja continue to express disappointment over the way the situation has unfolded. Whether or not Rahul chooses to clarify or apologise remains to be seen.