From tasting success and popularity after playing Samar to being ousted overnight from Anupamaa: Paras Kalnawat on his journey

Paras Kalnawat, who became a household name after playing Samar in Anupamaa had to exit the daily soap on a controversial note in July 2023 due to differences with the makers. Recently, in a podcast with The Motor Mouth, the actor recalled how Anupamaa brought him success and popularity. He credited the show for changing his life. He also opened up about the difficult phase when he was terminated overnight from Anupamaa after signing Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa. (Photo: Instagram)

I was part of Anupamaa for two years and many things changed on set during that time. The environment started feeling different for me, especially in the second year. I spoke about it many times with my producer, Rajan Shahi, who is very close to me and someone I consider like a father figure. He gave me a big opportunity in life. However, there were some issues between actors and the crew, and I began to feel uncomfortable. My screen space also reduced, and despite several discussions with the internal team, nothing really changed. (Photo: Instagram)

At the same time, I got an opportunity to do Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa. When I spoke to the team of Anupamaa, I was told I couldn’t do another show alongside it. I was given a choice—either continue with Anupamaa or leave and do Jhalak. I tried to manage both, but it wasn’t possible, so I decided to step away. Sir gave the statement that I was terminated from the show. (Photo: Instagram)

It was a difficult and emotional decision. My exit became controversial, but I left with a lot of good memories, relationships, and love from the show. Later, there were reports saying I was terminated. But the truth is, I had already discussed my exit earlier. Since we couldn’t come to an agreement, I was eventually sent a termination letter and asked to leave. I felt really bad at that time because, beyond everything related to the show, I had a lot of expectations from Rajan Shahi. (Photo: Instagram)

I always saw him as a father figure. Even now, we share a good bond—we stay in touch, I wish him on his birthday, and often send him messages related to that father-son connection. But back then, I wish he had supported me more and told me to do what was best for me. Maybe I would have felt happier. That said, I understand how this industry works. Sometimes, professional decisions take priority over personal relationships, and I don’t blame him for that. I don't blame him for it. (Photo: Instagram)

Honestly, everything came from Anupamaa. I had already spent around three years in the industry, done several shows, and even worked on web series like Ishq Aaj Kal, which got a good response. But the kind of fame a TV show gives, I truly understood it only after Anupamaa. People started recognizing me everywhere. I played Samar, and so many mothers would tell their kids to be like him. I could relate to the character too because I’m very close to my own mother. (Photo: Instagram)

Seeing my mom happy because of all this meant a lot to me. That show gave me my identity. I experienced real fame for the first time—people crowding around for pictures, getting that kind of attention. Even on social media, I hit my first one million followers during that phase. Since then, my journey has been growing step by step. I’ve been giving my 100 percent to my work. (Photo: Instagram)

I also worked on myself physically—I lost around 18 kilos because I didn’t want to limit myself to one image. There’s a huge difference now, and sometimes people don’t even recognize me at first. I had a belly and a round face. So yes, that show truly gave me everything. I’d honestly love to. And it’s not for anyone else—it’s for Rajan Shahi. If he ever calls me to do a show, I wouldn’t even think twice or negotiate. I’d be more than happy to say yes and work with him again. (Photo: Instagram)