Dheeraj Dhoopar celebrates 15 years in television: “I entered the industry when I was 27”

The actor discusses his career, challenges of being a TV star, and his unwavering dedication to the small screen.

May 30, 2024 - 6:21 PM IST

As Dheeraj Dhoopar marks 15 years in the television industry in 2024, he takes a moment to reflect on his journey, the lasting impact of Kundali Bhagya, and the discrimination he has faced as a TV actor. For Dhoopar, these years have flown by, yet he believes he still has "a long way to go."

Dheeraj Dhoopar celebrates 15 years in television: “I entered the industry when I was 27”

In an interview with Hindustan Times he recalled, "I entered the industry when I was 27, I gave two of the biggest shows on Indian TV — Sasural Simar Ka and Kundali Bhagya — which ran for a total of 13 years.” The actor's foray into acting was encouraged by his mother, who told him, "that I resembled (actor-host) Hussain Kuwajerwala and I should try acting on TV."

Dhoopar's career began with Maat Pitaah Ke Charnon Mein Swarg and includes notable shows like Naagin and Sherdil Shergill. Reflecting on his characters, he insisted, "I was never the typical male lead of TV serials. With Karan Luthra (his character in Kundali Bhagya), I got global fandom." Playing a negative character in Saubhagyavati Bhava: Niyam Aur Shartein Laagu was a refreshing change: “I’ve always played positive roles, but I loved playing a negative character.”

While some actors transition from television to OTT and films, Dhoopar remains steadfast in his commitment to TV. He explained, “I never want to leave TV as I am what I am because of this industry. Why should I leave this for something that may or may not happen?” Despite his successful role in the web series Tatlubaaz (2023), he expresses a desire to work across all mediums without abandoning any. He acknowledges facing discrimination due to his TV background: “I could see it in people’s eyes. I would get invited to the biggest award shows and notice a stark difference in the attention given to the film stars and me. I used to feel bad. I’m not saying treat them lesser than but treat us as equals. I’m here because of the work that I have done on TV.”

Dhoopar also attributed much of his success to his wife, Vinny Arora Dhoopar. He shared, “She took a break in her career to make me big. She took care of our son Zayn, and I can work peacefully knowing she is there. There cannot be a story about Dheeraj without Vinny.” As he celebrates 15 years in the industry, Dhoopar remains grateful for the unwavering support from his family and fans, and he looks forward to many more years of success.

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