From Ankita Lokhande working 148 hours non-stop for Pavitra Rishta to Krystle D’Souza being put on IV drips while shooting: TV stars who pushed all limits for their shows

Television actors enjoy huge love and fame because of their daily shows and the characters they play. But along with the praise, they often face many challenges behind the scenes. Some actors have pushed their limits to make their roles more real and powerful. From losing weight to shooting endlessly without rest, they have shown strong dedication. A few even continued working despite injuries, proving their passion for their craft. Here’s a look at some TV stars who went the extra mile for their roles. (Photo: Instagram)

Ankita Lokhande, loved for her role as Archana in Pavitra Rishta, has always given her best to her work. The actress once revealed on The Kapil Sharma Show that she worked for 148 hours non-stop. She shared, “I was wearing a Navari that time for my wedding and I was shooting for 148 hours in it continuously. We used to sleep on the set but those were the days and now I have so much to remember. It was my life’s best moment and I have learned so much from Pavitra Rishta.” (Photo: Instagram)

Krystle D’Souza in an interview with Siddharth Kanan recalled collapsing on set because of long working hours. She said, “There were no rules or governing bodies back then that established that you could only shoot for 12 hours. I have shot for 60 hours non-stop.” The actress added, “I have fainted on the sets so many times. There was no time even to go to the hospital, they would bring the hospital on set. It was taking a toll on me; I was not able to keep up anyway.” Krystle also revealed she had to be put on IV drips while shooting. (Photo: Instagram)

Mona Singh became a household name as Jassi in Jassi Jaisi Koi Nahi. She shared that for her role; she had to live under strict rules. In an interview with Mirchi Plus, she revealed staying in a hostel to hide her real identity, and not being allowed to wax or shape her eyebrows. Mona said, “Contracts were very strict at that point in time. I couldn’t tell anyone how I looked in real life, who I was or what my name was.” (Photo: Instagram)

Divyanka Tripathi famously known for her show Yeh Hai Mohabbatein faced a major injury while rehearsing for an award show. She slipped off stage, fell five feet, and suffered multiple fractures in her left leg which was put in a cast. Despite the injury, Divyanka resumed work the very same day. She had revealed in the past, “I have to hop around on one leg to move around whenever the wheelchair can’t be used. My right leg also hurts at times because my entire body weight is on it. The producers have been very helpful, but such is the life of a TV actor… we can’t help it as we have to shoot.” (Photo: Instagram)

Rupali Ganguly, who is adored for her role as Anupamaa, went through her own struggles for the character. The actress revealed she had to lose weight for her lead role in the show. In an exclusive chat with Times of India TV, she said, “To be 40 plus and not have a 26-inch waist when you’re playing the lead can be challenging at times. I always wondered if it would work. You can’t predict the fate of a show. I still can’t believe it’s happening to me and hope the bubble doesn’t burst.” (Photo: Instagram)

Shweta Tiwari, best remembered as Prerna in Kasautii Zindagii Kay, spoke about her tough early years in the industry. She revealed that during those days she often worked for 72 hours straight without any sleep. Shweta praised producer Ekta Kapoor for her equal dedication, calling it the “golden era” of TV. She said such extreme hours were a common practice back then. Tiwari also pointed out how the industry is now more professional compared to those early days. (Photo: Instagram)

Actor Dheeraj Dhoopar injured himself badly while shooting for Saubhagyavati Bhava 2. Instead of taking a break, he chose to continue with the shoot despite being in pain. He even shared a picture of a deep cut on his foot with his fans. Talking about it, Dheeraj said, "Getting injured or falling sick while shooting is a part of life for an actor, and for me, work always comes first. Though the injury was a painful one I did not let it affect my performance in any way. This has not happened to me for the first time; I have been injured on the set before but I make it a point to deliver no matter what." (Photo: Instagram)

Monika Bhadoria, known as Bawri from Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah, faced huge pressure for her role. She was asked to lose 20 kgs to fit into the character. Monika revealed in an Times of India TV interview that this led to vitamin deficiencies and health issues. She also recalled facing humiliation on set because of her body weight. Sharing her experience, she said, "I got a call from Sohil Ramani (the project head of Taarak Mehta) and he told me he needs to speak to me. I went to the office. He was not there around that time so someone else was there from the accounts department.” (Photo: Instagram)

For his role in Dhhai Kilo Prem, Meherzan Mazda had to completely change his physical appearance. The actor gained 16 kgs in just four months to portray his character. He played the male lead opposite Anjali Anand in the unusual love story. The show revolved around the lives of Piyush and Deepika, two obese characters who faced society’s judgments together. Meherzan’s transformation showed his commitment to bringing authenticity to the role. (Photo: Instagram)

Nia Sharma, known for her bold choices and strong performances, has often pushed herself for her projects. She revealed in an ETimes TV interview that she once starved herself for almost seven days. This was done to maintain a very fit body for a music video. Nia admitted it was tough, but she gave her all for the project. Over the years, she has built a reputation for never disappointing her fans. (Photo: Instagram)