‘We know our target audience, their taste and what they watch’
Popular actor Karan Kundrra talks about his new show Tere Ishq Mein Ghayal
By MOHNISH SINGHMar 09, 2023
KARAN KUNDRRA has come a very long way since making his acting debut in 2009 drama serial Kitani Mohabbat Hai. That winning performance as Arjun Punj kick-started a cool career that has seen him balance movies with becoming one of India’s biggest TV stars.
He is currently part of recently commenced supernatural thriller Tere Ishq Mein Ghayal, which follows two werewolf brothers who fall in love with the same girl. The versatile actor stars alongside Gashmeer Mahajani and Reem Shaikh in the finite show drawing in audiences on Colors TV.
Eastern Eye recently caught up with the popular actor to talk about Tere Ishq Mein Ghayal, the character he plays, and what most attracted him to the unique project. He also spoke about his definition of love, changing tastes and comparisons to The Vampire Diaries.
Tell us a little more about your new show Tere Ishq Mein Ghayal?
It is a supernatural thriller that revolves around three characters – Armaan, Eisha, and Veer. I play Veer. Armaan and Veer are brothers who also happen to be werewolves and this beautiful girl Eisha, played by Reem Shaikh, is a human. It is basically a triangle. I think that it’s a beautiful universe in itself. We were left mesmerised while shooting for the mesmerising show.
How much has the positive response to the show meant to you?
Gashmeer Mahajani, Reem Shaikh, and I have worked really hard on this show. Mamta and Yash Patnaik have written a fabulous show. The creators, writers, direction team, and production team have worked hard on it, and this is the result. When you work hard on something and later find out the results are positive and the show appeals to audiences, then you feel nice.
Keeping your successful stint on Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai aside, you are returning to the fiction genre after a long gap. What made you say yes to Tere Ishq Mein Ghayal?
(Laughs) They were paying me really well. Jokes apart, it is a finite show. What I like most about finite shows is that you can give this kind of quality to it. The reason is that we had a script in our hands and could pre-plan everything. Budget, locations, etc. When you work on such shows, you also want to give it more than 100 per cent as an actor because you know the character’s pre-defined graph.
Karan Kundrra in Tere Ishq Mein Ghayal
Your girlfriend Tejasswi Prakash did Naagin on Colors and now you are also doing a supernatural show on the same channel...
Yeah, I guess inspiration begins at home, but jokes apart, Colors is a channel that has mastered this genre. I don’t think any other channel has come close to what Colors has done in this genre over the past few years. Their supernatural show Naagin is, of course, my favourite. So, I think they have it in them and if you see a progressive order, Tere Ishq Mein Ghayal is an evolution of what they have already accomplished. So, it does not get better than this.
Lots of comments have been pouring in on social media that Tejasswi should maybe do a cameo in your new show. What do you think?
Fans are fans. There is a lot of love that has come in, to be honest. They have been pouring in their love ever since the promo came out. And it is not about just my character but Gashmeer and Reem’s characters as well. So, we are getting a lot of love and there is a lot of anticipation which we really, really like.
How do you define love?
Well, my love story is pretty much out there. We have learned ishq (love) from cinema and books. Whoever has written these beautiful love stories must have felt love very deeply. And now, I am also in that phase where I can experience all those beautiful things. Now I know what is love. When you start feeling love, the universe conspires to make you happy, to make you feel in love. Whatever is happening in your life feels magical. That is love for me.
There have been shows on vampires and werewolves before. How different is this going to be?
You know, love stories have been running for decades and they will continue to be. It is all about how you put it out there and showcase it to audiences, keeping in mind the current dynamics.
But the taste of the audience has changed a lot post-pandemic...
We know what the television audience wants right now. We know our target audience, their taste and what they usually watch, so cater to that. At the same time, we must keep our cultures and values intact, because at the end of the day, television is still the biggest medium in the country right now. So, it has to be an amalgamation of all of that. How we are going to entice the audiences is something that you have to see for yourself from Monday to Wednesday on Colors. Trust me, we will not disappoint you.
The show is also being compared to The Vampire Diaries. What do you have to say about that?
See, if somebody writes a story about two brothers and a mother, you immediately think of Deewaar (1975) or Karan Arjun (1995). The genre of supernatural and fantasy has not been explored much here but there have been some iconic shows in the West in the same genre. So, you have to take some reference. But it is not like we have replicated that. Then why would somebody watch our show? They would go and watch that show. It is as simple as that.
How challenging was it to do a supernatural show?
It is not easy. I am sure you would have not seen a show mounted on such a humongous scale before. This show is going to disrupt TV. Audiences are demanding more from television especially after the lockdown because, as you said, now they are watching content on OTT also. You just cannot give shows with the same old format anymore. You have to
work harder and bring new things. That’s how anything evolves. So, I think this is a part of that.
How was it working with your co-stars Gashmeer Mahajani and Reem Shaikh?
After shooting with Gashmeer for two months, I realised that he is a man of few words. If he likes you, he will never say it. He comes from theatre, a massive artistic sort of place. He brings that experience to the table. Reem has also been working for years now. We bring all our experience and put it together to make a fabulous show like this.
Popular stars generally avoid doing a two-hero project, but you were game for it...
We signed the show some four months ago and have already shot for two months. Trust me, we never thought about it. Gashmeer and I are killing it. Everybody is adding something or the other to the show. We are all about coming together and making a good product. We are brothers on as well as off screen.
What, according to you, is the most fascinating thing about the new show?
Apart from the three of us, the interesting thing about the show is that it is a visual spectacle. The kind of locations we have shot in and kind of layers that our characters Armaan, Isha, and Veer have on the show is just amazing. The story is set in a different world altogether, with magic, passion, and intensity. It is something you cannot ignore.
Tere Ishq Mein Ghayal airs Monday-Wednesday at 9 pm on Colors TV
Abhishek Bachchan credits Aishwarya Rai for taking the lead in daughter Aaradhya’s upbringing.
Says Aaradhya, now 13, has no phone and stays away from social media.
Calls Aishwarya “selfless” for prioritising parenting over everything else.
Slams online gossip surrounding their marriage as baseless and insensitive.
Actor Abhishek Bachchan has dismissed recent speculation around his marriage with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, instead shining a light on her unwavering dedication as a mother. In a recent chat, he spoke warmly about their 13-year-old daughter Aaradhya, revealing that she neither owns a mobile phone nor uses social media, something he attributes to Aishwarya’s hands-on parenting.
Aaradhya Bachchan has no access to social media or a personal phoneGetty Images
Aishwarya Rai's parenting praised as ‘selfless and devoted’
Speaking in an interview, Abhishek was full of admiration for how Aishwarya has raised their daughter. "I have to give credit entirely to Aishwarya. I go out and work, but she does all the heavy lifting when it comes to Aaradhya. She’s incredibly selfless,” he said. According to him, Aishwarya’s decision to put her daughter's well-being above everything else has shaped Aaradhya into a grounded young person.
Abhishek Bachchan calls Aishwarya a devoted mother and partnerGetty Images
Aaradhya has no phone, no social media — by choice and design
In an era when most teenagers are glued to their screens, Aaradhya stands out. “She doesn’t have a phone. She’s not on any social media. She’s being raised to be thoughtful and aware,” Abhishek said. He also acknowledged that while Aishwarya plays the larger parenting role, Aaradhya herself deserves credit for the person she’s becoming, calling her a “wonderful little lady” who brings joy and pride to the family.
Aaradhya is now taller than Aishwarya says Abhishek in candid interviewGetty Images
Responds to rumours, says online chatter can be hurtful
For months, the internet has been buzzing with speculation about a rift between Abhishek and Aishwarya. Without naming any specific rumours, Abhishek expressed frustration with how quickly false stories gain traction. “People sit behind their screens and type things without realising they’re talking about real lives. It’s very easy to be nasty online,” he shared during a media interaction.
Aishwarya Rai often seen with daughter Aaradhya at public eventsGetty Images
‘She’s taller than Aishwarya now’: a proud dad reflects
Recalling the night Aaradhya was born, Abhishek fondly mentioned how she once fit in the crook of his arm. “She’s taller than Aishwarya now,” he said with a smile, adding that the happiness of coming home to a healthy family is what matters most to him today.
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To address the ongoing demand, Nintendo is working to increase production
Nintendo Switch 2 demand outstripping supply in several countries
Over 2.2 million applications submitted in Japan’s lottery sales
Nintendo held four purchase draws, with a fifth scheduled for early July
Company aims to strengthen production and supply to meet demand
Switch 2 had the biggest launch in Nintendo history
Strong demand leads to shortages
Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa has confirmed that demand for the Nintendo Switch 2 has surpassed available supply in many regions. Speaking during the Q&A session of the company’s 85th annual general meeting of shareholders, Furukawa addressed concerns about ongoing stock shortages.
“Currently, for Nintendo Switch 2, demand is exceeding supply in many countries, and we sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this may be causing our consumers,” he said.
Furukawa acknowledged that even shareholders and their families may be struggling to secure a unit, particularly in Japan, where Nintendo implemented a lottery system through its official My Nintendo Store.
2.2 million applications in Japan alone
The company began accepting applications for the Switch 2 via random draw in early April. Applicants had to meet specific criteria to qualify. The number of entries far exceeded Nintendo’s expectations, with over 2.2 million applications submitted.
Furukawa noted that, as of April 23, he had posted a public message on X acknowledging the high demand and apologising to those not selected. Four lottery rounds have since taken place, but many hopeful customers remain without a console. A fifth draw is scheduled for early July.
While many Japanese retailers also used lottery systems for launch sales, Furukawa stated that more stores are now offering the device for direct purchase.
Nintendo to boost supply
To address the ongoing demand, Nintendo is working to increase production and distribution efforts. “We will continue to strengthen our production and supply systems to deliver as many Nintendo Switch 2 systems as possible to our consumers,” Furukawa said.
The Nintendo Switch 2 launched on 5 June and sold over 3.5 million units worldwide within its first four days, according to VGChartz estimates. This marks the most successful hardware launch in Nintendo history, surpassing the original Switch’s launch week total of 1.4 million units.
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Ranveer Singh in a still from Lootera that captured his most restrained performance
Ranveer’s subtle performance in Lootera marked a major shift from his usual high-energy roles.
The 1950s-set romantic drama became a career milestone for the actor.
His restrained, emotionally complex portrayal earned long-term critical acclaim.
The film showcased a successful collaboration with director Vikramaditya Motwane.
As Dhurandhar builds buzz, Lootera reminds us of Ranveer’s range.
Twelve years ago, Ranveer Singh surprised audiences with Lootera, a period romance that asked him to do something unfamiliar: stay still. Set in 1950s Bengal and directed by Vikramaditya Motwane, the film gave Ranveer the space to deliver one of his most subdued and mature performances. No outbursts. No spectacle. Just quiet heartbreak.
Lootera released in 2013 and marked a stylistic shift for Ranveer Singh Prime Video
Here’s why his role as Varun still holds up more than a decade later:
1. A rare lesson in stillness
Known for loud roles and louder screen presence, Ranveer turned things down, way down in Lootera. His portrayal of a soft-spoken, guilt-ridden thief proved that less can sometimes be more. His silences did the heavy lifting, letting emotion simmer just beneath the surface.
Ranveer Singh’s role as Varun showed he could command the screen without saying much
2. He took a risk and it worked
At a time when most rising stars would double down on mass-appealing hits, Ranveer picked a slower, more poetic film. It was a gamble, especially for someone fresh off commercial successes. But Lootera earned him serious critical respect and broadened perceptions of what he could do as an actor.
The period romance Lootera became a turning point in Ranveer Singh’s career
3. An emotionally layered performance
Varun isn’t a typical romantic lead. He’s torn, flawed, and emotionally guarded. Ranveer managed to convey all that complexity with minimal dialogue, relying instead on body language and micro-expressions that hinted at heartbreak and inner conflict.
Ranveer Singh’s performance in Lootera was praised for its emotional restraint
4. A director who brought out his quieter side
Vikramaditya Motwane’s direction played a big role in shaping the performance. There’s a quiet rhythm to the film, and Ranveer adapted beautifully to it. The collaboration allowed him to step into a world that demanded introspection over intensity, and he delivered.
Ranveer Singh and Sonakshi Sinha starred in the romantic drama set in 1950s BengalYoutube/Altt Balaji Motion Pictures
5. A role that aged well
Not all performances hold up years later, but Lootera does. While it wasn’t a box office juggernaut, the film has since found cult love. Ranveer’s turn as Varun remains one of his most respected, proof that charisma doesn’t always need volume.
Lootera’s legacy has grown over the years despite its modest box office runYoutube/Altt Balaji Motion Pictures
What’s next?
Twelve years on, Lootera continues to be a defining moment in Ranveer Singh’s career. And with his next film, Dhurandhar, already drawing attention for a darker transformation, it’s clear the actor is still full of surprises.
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The chain had also gained a following for its themed brunches
Chinese dim sum restaurant Ping Pong has closed all its UK locations
The chain made the announcement via social media
Founded in 2005, the brand thanked customers and staff for their support
Loyal diners shared memories and disappointment in the comments
All branches are permanently closed
Chinese restaurant chain Ping Pong has permanently closed all its branches in the UK, the company confirmed in a social media announcement.
Founded in 2005 by restaurateur Kurt Zdesar, the dim sum chain had become popular for its stylish interiors, creative menus, and Asian-inspired cocktails. The company did not provide prior notice of the closure but said the decision marked the end of an “unforgettable” 20-year journey.
Social media announcement thanks customers and staff
In a post shared on Instagram, the company wrote: “It’s a wrap. After 20 unforgettable years, all Ping Pong locations are now permanently closed.
“We’re incredibly proud of what we built, an independent hospitality brand full of creativity, flavour and soul.
“To everyone who joined us over the years, for dim sum dates, happy hours, bottomless brunches, and just-because catch-ups – thank you.
“You shared your moments with us, passed around little parcels of deliciousness, and helped make Ping Pong what it was.
“To our collaborators, suppliers, and the incredible team who kept the steam going, thank you. It’s been sum-thing truly special.”
Customers express sadness over sudden closure
Regular customers responded to the announcement with disappointment and nostalgia. Many expressed shock over the sudden news and the lack of notice.
One Instagram user commented: “Noooo, we’ve made some amazing memories there, birthdays, anniversaries, you name it. The food was always so amazing.”
Another said: “WHAT?? WE HAD NO CHANCE TO SAY GOODBYE! NO WARNING.”
Others fondly recalled the restaurant’s atmosphere and signature dishes, with one writing: “The food and the lychee cocktails will be sorely missed.”
Ping Pong had multiple locations across London and was known for its contemporary take on traditional Chinese dim sum. The chain had also gained a following for its themed brunches, casual dining experience, and cocktail offerings.
No further information has been shared regarding the reason behind the closure or whether the brand will return in a new format.
THE seven-year prison sentence handed to a 15-year-old boy convicted of the manslaughter of 80-year-old Bhim Sen Kohli is to be reviewed under the UK’s Unduly Lenient Sentence (ULS) scheme.
The boy, who cannot be named due to legal restrictions, was found guilty of carrying out an "unprovoked" attack on Kohli as he walked his dog in a park in Leicester, eastern England, in September last year.
The review follows a detailed assessment by Solicitor General Lucy Rigby KC MP to determine whether the case met the threshold for referral.
“The Solicitor General, Lucy Rigby KC MP, was appalled by this violent, cowardly attack on an innocent man. She wishes to express her deepest sympathies to Bhim Kohli’s friends and family at this difficult time,” said a spokesperson for the Attorney General’s Office.
“After a detailed review of the case, the Solicitor General concluded the sentence of the 15-year-old could be referred to the Court of Appeal. The court will now determine whether the sentence should be increased.”
A 13-year-old girl, who was also convicted of manslaughter for her role in the attack, avoided a custodial sentence. She had filmed the assault while laughing and encouraging the boy, the court heard.
At a sentencing hearing on June 5 at Leicester Crown Court, Justice Mark Turner described the attack as “wicked”. He said he was legally bound to consider the defendants’ ages.
The boy, referred to as D1, was convicted of physically assaulting Kohli, while the girl, referred to as D2, received a three-year youth rehabilitation order with a six-month curfew.
Addressing the girl in court, Justice Turner said that a custodial sentence would likely cause “more harm than good”. It is understood that her sentence will not be referred for review as it did not meet the legal threshold.
During the trial, the court was told that Kohli had been racially abused and repeatedly punched and kicked. His daughter, Susan Kohli, found him lying on the ground after the attack.
“They chose to attack a defenceless pensioner and for that I cannot give them any of my sympathy,” she said after the sentencing.
Kelly Matthews, senior district crown prosecutor at the Crown Prosecution Service, called the incident “tragic” and said it had deeply affected the Leicester community and beyond.
“Kohli set out to walk his dog in his local park, as he did every day, but lost his life in what followed,” she said.