Saanand Verma opines, “It’s a tough job to maintain popularity once you achieve it through hard work”!

Actor Saanand Verma, who is currently seen in #BhabijiGharParHai, says that the popularity of TV shows extends to only a few very famous ones. He adds that otherwise, this popularity can fade sooner than expected. “It depends on the impact. Generally, popularity from television shows is limited and decreases over time. However, there are some iconic shows, like Friends, and actors like Shivaji Satam in CID, whose popularity never decreases. There are a few shows that have a significant impact internationally. In general, for most television shows, the impact is temporary and fades over time,” he says.

When asked if he feels it is difficult to maintain success in the TV industry, he replies, “For actors, if they have acted in very popular television shows, their popularity might decrease eventually. Maintaining success in the TV industry is difficult. It’s a tough job to maintain popularity once you achieve it through hard work. Success requires continuous hard work to be sustained. This is the reality of life. In the TV industry, maintaining success involves a lot of struggle, insecurity, unpredictability, and a dynamic environment.”

Regarding his roles, he notes, “Whether as the lead in one show, the second lead in another, or a character actor in a third, the characterization often changes on screen. There’s a fixed pattern in TV, with limited chances for experimentation due to censorship and other restrictions. However, on set, the most important thing about a character is the love and connection you feel toward it. This love drives me to go to the set every day.”

He adds that for him, a good atmosphere on the set is all that matters. “I am very serious and dedicated to my work. When shooting, a positive atmosphere and good vibes are essential. If you work together for a long time, you need positive vibes. When you step out of the set, you need to socialize. Screen time might decrease for any actor, but popular and impactful actors maintain audience interest, and their screen time tends to grow,” he says.

He continues, “For example, my character Anokhelal Saxena in Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai has made a lasting impression on my mind. It’s an extraordinary and unique character, unlike anything seen on television or in movies before. I am very lucky to have played such a mind-blowing character. For me, Anokhelal Saxena is the best character of all time. Any genuine viewer would agree on how great this character is. There is no other dream character for me on television because I have already played the greatest character.”

By Keerti Kadam