Shubhangi Atre: It felt surreal to become Angoori Bhabhi again

She may no longer be part of the daily soap Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain!, but Shubhangi Atre is happy to slip back into the skin of Angoori bhabhi, this time for the big screen. She is set to reprise her popular role in Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain! Fun On The Run, the film adaptation of the sitcom. Reflecting on her return to films, she says, “The guest appearance in C Kkompany happened because I was doing Ektaa Kapoor’s Kasturi, which she also produced. But Bhabiji is a full-fledged role for me. We had always hoped that a film on such an iconic show would be made.”

Having exited the sitcom recently after portraying Angoori for a decade, stepping back into the character for promotions brought a rush of emotions. “It definitely felt surreal,” she shares. “When I dressed up as Angoori again for the trailer launch, just two months after exiting the show, it was overwhelming. I had owned this character for 10 years. A lot was happening in my personal life, and I often went to the sets with a heavy heart. But once I became Angoori, main sab bhool jaati thi.”

The period following her exit turned contentious after Shilpa Shinde’s re-entry into the show, with her remarks on Shubhangi’s acting and mannerisms sparking debate. Choosing to focus on the support she received, Shubhangi says, “I am filled with gratitude for the love and appreciation the audience gave me, and for the support from colleagues, many of whom had not even worked with me.”

She adds, “I came to Mumbai in 2007 with just ₹6,000 and big dreams. I come from a humble background, and my only aim has been to win people’s hearts through my work. I just pray I never lose that masoomiyat, imaandaari, and sachchai.”

Does she miss Angoori? “Shaayad,” she admits. “She will always stay in my heart. But it is time to explore new characters and mediums.”

Looking back at why she did not actively pursue films after C Kkompany, Shubhangi explains, “Nothing held me back. Television never really gave me the time to think of anything else. I was consistently working. TV is female-oriented; actresses are often the heroes of their shows. At the same time, I had financial responsibilities, which did not allow me to experiment or take risks. Now, I feel it is time to evolve.”