Varun Badola on iconic TV shows: 'Astitva' and 'Des Mein Nikla' shaped early career
Synopsis
Varun Badola isn't dwelling in the past. Two decades after 'Astitva' and 'Des Mein Nikla' made him a household name, the actor is candid about why clinging to those roles would stunt his growth. His pivot to OTT and creative production signals a deliberate reinvention — not a retreat.
Key Takeaways
Varun Badola credits 'Astitva…Ek Prem Kahani' (premiered 2002 ) and 'Des Mein Nikla Hoga Chand' with establishing his television career.
He also gained recognition in 'Koshish - Ek Aasha' , opposite Sandhya Mridul .
Badola emphasized that artistic growth requires moving beyond past success, despite the nostalgia attached to iconic roles.
He has transitioned to digital platforms, appearing in Undekhi Part 4 and co-writing the show's first season.
His career trajectory reflects the broader shift of television actors toward OTT and creative production roles.
Actor Varun Badola has reflected on how landmark television series shaped his acting trajectory in the early 2000s, crediting shows like 'Astitva…Ek Prem Kahani', 'Des Mein Nikla Hoga Chand', and 'Koshish - Ek Aasha' with establishing him as a household name. In an exclusive conversation, Badola acknowledged the immense recognition these characters brought, while emphasizing the importance of artistic growth beyond nostalgia.
The shows that built his foundation
Badola became widely recognized through 'Astitva…Ek Prem Kahani', which premiered in 2002 and paired him opposite actress Nikki Aneja Walia. He also gained significant acclaim in 'Koshish - Ek Aasha', where he starred opposite Sandhya Mridul. In 'Des Mein Nikla Hoga Chand', he shared screen space with Sangeeta Ghosh, with his character Dev becoming a fan favourite during the early 2000s television era. All three shows cemented his reputation as one of television's most reliable performers.
On growth beyond past glory
Badola stressed that while these characters remain close to his heart, remaining anchored to past success would hinder artistic evolution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which TV shows made Varun Badola famous?
Varun Badola became a household name through 'Astitva…Ek Prem Kahani' (2002), where he starred opposite Nikki Aneja Walia. He also gained significant acclaim in 'Koshish - Ek Aasha' with Sandhya Mridul and 'Des Mein Nikla Hoga Chand' opposite Sangeeta Ghosh.
What did Varun Badola say about his iconic roles?
Badola acknowledged that these characters gave him immense popularity and recognition, but emphasized that as an actor, it is necessary to grow beyond past success. He stated: 'I cannot just sit in the past, hugging those laurels and not wanting to move forward.'
What is Varun Badola doing now?
Badola has transitioned to digital platforms and was last seen in 'Undekhi Part 4,' an OTT series. He also co-wrote the first season of the show, expanding his role beyond acting into creative production.
When did 'Astitva…Ek Prem Kahani' premiere?
'Astitva…Ek Prem Kahani' premiered in 2002, marking a turning point in Varun Badola's career and establishing him as a television actor of note.
