Actor Kunal Verma, who is back to TV after a hiatus, says that he was lucky enough to be offered an amazing opportunity the first day of the New Year. The actor, who was last seen in the show Dil Se Dil Tak, is now part of the Star Plus show Jhanak, produced by Magic Moments Motion Pictures.
“I have been associated with TV for over 12-13 years and have done many shows, but this opportunity was completely unexpected. I wasn’t even thinking about it, and then suddenly, on the first day of 2025, I got a call. It all happened so quickly. The credit goes to my lady, Pooja, who spoke to the casting person, finalized everything, and even sorted the budget. Altaf, another well-wisher, was also instrumental. I didn’t even get time to think; it was all so prompt,” he says.
Talking about his life after Dil Se Dil Tak, he says, “After Dil Se Dil Tak, a lot changed in my life. Even though the TRPs of the show improved, things didn’t work out for me as I had hoped. I wasn’t lucky enough to get good roles right after. In 2018, I did a web show, a few ads in 2019, and a film with Red Chillies. Then COVID happened, and those two years were challenging for everyone. In 2023, I did a film in Agra and worked on a Hotstar show, Dear Ishq, for four months. While I wasn’t constantly on TV, I kept myself busy with other projects. Now, I am focusing on this new opportunity in Jhanak.”
Ask him what he likes the most about his character Dr. Vihaan, and he says, “I relate a lot to Dr. Vihaan. He is a good-hearted man and knows how to handle situations gracefully. He has a backstory that makes him somewhat sad, and I find those layers very interesting. I am really enjoying playing him, especially because I get to work with an amazing artist like Vaishali Ji, who plays my mother in the show.”
He adds, “The new phase of Jhanak has brought a fresh vibe to the show. The team is amazing, and the environment on set is so chilled that you don’t feel any pressure. All credit goes to our director for making things smooth. The longest scene I have shot so far is 16 minutes, and I am looking forward to more such challenges. I am really enjoying being part of this fresh chapter in Jhanak.”
Meanwhile talking about his experience with big screen and OTT, he says, “My film BOB Biswas was supposed to release in theatres, but due to COVID, it was delayed. Eventually, it premiered on ZEE5. It wasn’t a big role, but being on the silver screen is everyone’s dream. I also did Dear Ishq, which was a good experience, though the show stopped despite its success. The big screen and OTT offer unique challenges and rewards, and I hope to do more in both spaces.”
He adds, “I am currently auditioning for OTT projects and want to try something stern and intense. I would also love to play a negative character. The preparation time for film roles allows you to truly get into the skin of the character, and I hope to get an opportunity to showcase my versatility.”