Aasif Sheikh, a well-known name in Hindi television and films, rose to prominence as Vibhuti Narayan Mishra in &TV’s Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai. For years, the actor has tickled the audience’s funny bone with his impeccable comic timing, and he has become the audience’s absolute favourite. The actor describes his journey as Vibuti and what keeps him committed to the role after eight years in a candid interview.
1. Congratulations on achieving a milestone of eight years and completing 2000 episodes!
Thank you so much. Completing 2000 episodes and eight long years is a big milestone for everyone in the team and me. We are extremely proud and happy to see this amazing journey filled with learning, laughter, and joy. I am thankful to the producers and the channel for allowing me to be a part of this show. I am grateful for an exceptional character like Vibhuti Narayan Mishra. Each funny character I played in these eight years was greatly appreciated by the audience and struck a chord with them. I feel so lucky to play 30-year-old Vibhuti in my 50s and be a part of such a stellar cast.
2. Do you consider your role as Vibhuti Narayan Mishra a watershed moment in your career?
The character of Vibhuti Narayan Mishra has been a watershed moment for me. In these eight years, I have played more than 300 characters on this show, which is quite an achievement for an actor. I am proud of what I am doing at this age. I have earned a name, fame, and money through this show and have decided to act till I can remember my lines. The show has given me a fresh start. Typically, an actor my age accepts that he will be limited to playing elderly supporting characters on screen. I was also losing hope and had mentally prepared myself to dress in the traditional kurta pyjama and stand behind a cast of actors. However, I would still pray to God for that one opportunity where I had the scope to perform a meaty role like Vibhuti. I was seen as a decent performer earlier, but this show has put me on a pedestal. It’s an overwhelming feeling. That’s something I have craved all my life.
3. Usually, actors find it challenging to play female characters and try to avoid it, but you have been an exception…
I enjoy playing female characters. And I don’t think essaying a woman’s character on screen is not that challenging but quite entertaining. As a viewer, seeing a man transform into a woman is always fun. And I feel I look great as a woman (laughs). I have all shapes and sizes of clothes required to become a woman stored in my make-up room. I played women of all ages on this show, which was initially challenging and worthwhile. Our endeavour has always been to entertain our audience with something new and refreshing. Therefore, we keep researching, brainstorming and creating amusing and entertaining characters to keep the audience hooked. The audience loves and enjoys watching each character, encouraging me to keep exploring more and strive to outdo myself every time.
4. Onscreen, you are playing a character who is half your age. How do you maintain yourself to play such a young character?
It’s been three decades in the industry, and I still feel the same energy. I intend to play long innings in this industry; being fit is paramount. Also, my character Vibhuti Narayan Mishra takes me back to my younger days. It brings out the best in me; it makes me feel 35 years young (not old) at 55. Honestly, for me, age is just a number. I don’t want to tell people my back is aching or not feeling up to it at the shoot. I want to be fit enough to take on any challenge at any given time, like a 30-year-old young man. My mantra for survival is fitness, and being consistent is the key. I look fit and young as I follow a strict regime that clearly shows how I look and appear. Health is extremely important, and so is eating right and sleeping. And I am quite disciplined. Firstly, getting at least six to eight hours of sleep is critical. In addition, I eat balanced meals and don’t overeat. Exercise is vital; hence, I do my Yoga (breathing exercises) while travelling to my sets in my car. I have eliminated sugar from my life and do workouts.
5. What, according to you, is the reason behind the huge success of Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai?
The biggest reason for the show’s success is its unique characters and entertaining tracks. The tragedies that our characters face and hilarious get-ups keep the audience glued to our show. Our fans have mentioned how watching the show has brought happiness to their lives. There have been cases wherein many patients have written to us stating how the show’s comedy has helped them divert their minds from their pain. Our commitment to spreading smiles has been the biggest reason behind the show’s success.
Watch Aasif Sheikh as Vibhuti Narayan Mishra in Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai at 10:30 pm, airing every Monday to Friday only on &TV!
