Anupamaa producer Rajan Shahi has opened up about the challenges he faced while casting Gaurav Khanna as Anuj in the popular television drama. Despite receiving warnings from several people who believed Gaurav was “jinxed,” Shahi decided to cast him, and it turned out to be a major success.
The Journey to Casting Gaurav Khanna
Anupamaa, starring Rupali Ganguly and Gaurav Khanna, has become one of the most successful shows in Indian television history. Gaurav and Rupali’s on-screen chemistry has been a significant factor in the show’s immense popularity. However, in a candid interview with Screen, Rajan Shahi shared the behind-the-scenes story of how Gaurav was cast as Anuj.
Shahi mentioned that when he was searching for the perfect actor to portray Anuj, he had trouble finding the right fit. On a trip to New York with his daughter, he stumbled upon Gaurav’s profile and remembered that Gaurav had been reaching out to him for years. He realized Gaurav was the perfect choice for the role.
The Warnings About Gaurav Khanna
However, casting Gaurav didn’t come without its challenges. Rajan revealed that many people, including some celebrities, warned him against working with Gaurav, citing his previous shows’ lack of success. “A lot of people, including some celebrities, told me that Gaurav’s shows didn’t work; he is jinxed. And I hate when someone says that. I have heard these things about me in the beginning, so it makes me furious,” Shahi said.
He further added, “Everything has its own synergy and fate; one person cannot be responsible for determining that.”
No Audition, Just a Look Test
Rajan also shared that he never had Gaurav audition for the role of Anuj. Instead, he called him in for a look test, after which he signed a three-year contract with the actor. Shahi made it clear to Gaurav from the start that there was no guarantee of how long his character would remain on the show, as it would depend on the character’s track.
“There was a lot of confidence in Anuj’s character. By the time Gaurav joined, Rupali had taken Anupamaa to greater heights. But Gaurav had that hunger to prove himself; he hadn’t done a serial for 6-7 years, so he gave the show his best,” Shahi said, praising Gaurav’s dedication and commitment.
About Anupamaa
Launched in 2020, Anupamaa has quickly become one of the most successful television shows in India. The series follows Anupamaa Shah, a devoted homemaker who sacrifices her own dreams for the sake of her family. Despite being taken for granted, she eventually learns to assert herself, rebuild her identity, and pursue her passions.
The show has consistently topped the TRP charts and has cemented its place as one of the most beloved dramas in recent years.
Gaurav Khanna’s Recent Work
After his exit from Anupamaa, Gaurav Khanna participated in the Farah Khan-hosted show Celebrity MasterChef, where he emerged as the winner, beating other celebrities like Tejasswi Prakash, Nikki Tamboli, Faisal Sheikh, and Rajiv Adatia. Gaurav is currently a contestant on Bigg Boss 19, hosted by Salman Khan.
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