Television actor Angad Hasija has revealed the depth of preparation that went into portraying Alekh, his celebrated role in the popular Hindi television series 'Sapna Babul Ka…Bidaai'. In a candid conversation, Hasija disclosed that he met people living with mental health conditions, closely studying their behaviour and mannerisms to bring authenticity to a character that remains one of his most recognised performances.

The Research Behind the Role

Hasija described a meticulous process of observation — watching how individuals with mental health conditions carried themselves, the way they spoke, and the involuntary pauses in their speech. 'I met people who were mentally disturbed and observed their body language and dialogue delivery. I observed how they would get stuck while speaking and how they would react when they were scared,' he said.

The actor noted that the challenge lay in walking a fine line between authenticity and excess. 'It is very difficult. There is a very thin line, and it is important that the performance does not look like overacting. It should not look fake,' he explained. 'If you are portraying such a character, people should accept it.'

The Character of Alekh

Alekh Rajvansh, the role Hasija played opposite Sara Khan in 'Sapna Babul Ka…Bidaai', was written as a man with a complex psychological profile — separated from his family since childhood, shaped by difficult experiences, and prone to childlike behaviour as a result of trauma. Hasija said the character received considerable appreciation from audiences, validating his immersive approach to preparation.

The Connection to 'Tumm Se Tumm Tak'

Hasija also revealed that his current character in the show 'Tumm Se Tumm Tak' is closely connected to Alekh, though the name has changed. 'The character I am playing is the same Alekh. Alekh Rajvansh was in Bidaai. His name has changed, but he is essentially the same character,' the actor explained.

According to Hasija, this new character carries similar emotional baggage — a boy estranged from his family, burdened with secrets, and struggling with memory loss. The continuity, he suggested, is intentional and offers him an opportunity to deepen a portrayal he first developed years ago.

Why Method Preparation Matters in Indian Television

Hasija's approach stands out in an industry where production timelines are often tight and method-style preparation is uncommon. His decision to engage directly with individuals experiencing mental health conditions reflects a growing awareness, among some actors, of the responsibility that comes with depicting psychological conditions on screen. Notably, portrayals of mental health in mainstream Indian television have historically drawn both praise and criticism for accuracy.

With 'Tumm Se Tumm Tak' reviving the Alekh archetype, audience and critical response to Hasija's reprisal will be closely watched.