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Having completed nearly 25 years on television, Shabir Ahluwalia recently opened up in a candid conversation. He spoke about his latest show ‘Ufff… Yeh Love Hai Mushkil’, his passion for fitness and sports, the impact of social media, and aspects of his personal life.
"Shabir Ahluwalia, who has ruled hearts on the small screen for nearly 25 years, needs no formal introduction today. From iconic shows like ‘Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi’ and ‘Kumkum Bhagya’ to his appearances in several films, Shabir has proven his mettle as an actor time and again. These days, he is making headlines for his show ‘Ufff… Yeh Love Hai Mushkil’. In a recent interaction, he opened up about the show, fitness, his love for sports, the influence of social media, and his personal life. Here’s what he shared:"
In today’s time, audiences are more content-aware. What freshness does ‘Ufff… Yeh Love Hai Mushkil’ bring that makes it different from other TV shows?
Television today offers all kinds of content—some progressive, some regressive—because the audience itself is diverse. The day viewers stop watching a particular kind of content, it will stop being made. Our show breaks away from typical melodrama. It delves into the complexities of relationships, emotional clashes, and depth. I even lost 14 kilos for the role because my character ‘Yug Sinha’ is deeply layered.
You’ve shown great interest in sports besides acting. Where does this adventurous passion stem from?
I’ve loved adventurous sports since childhood. I once did the longest bike ride through a tunnel of fire. Of course, I’ve had my share of accidents—broken limbs and all. But now, I’m more disciplined. I work on my strength and health through yoga, cardio, and regular workouts. My kids are also active in sports, but I don’t stop them from falling. I believe falling down is how one becomes stronger.
With the growing popularity of OTT platforms, do you feel television has lost some of its charm?
The charm hasn’t faded; content consumption has changed. Earlier, we didn’t have so many entertainment options. Today, the internet has put the world in our hands. Every show, whether on TV or web, now requires sincere effort. It’s actually an exciting time—new stories are emerging, and fresh talent is getting opportunities.
Your fitness and the age gap between you and Sumbul Touqeer in the show often go viral on social media. How do you deal with that?
Instead of paying attention to social media, I focus on my work and the show. When I have something relevant to share about myself or my work, I use social media for that. But I don’t live my life online.
Acting is a demanding profession. How do you manage to make time for your family?
It’s simple—when you truly love something, you make time for it. I love spending time with my family. No matter how long the shoot goes, I rush home as soon as it’s over. Playing with my kids, talking with my wife, going on vacations together—that’s how I recharge. And when work gets too hectic, I compensate by spending quality time with them whenever possible.
Your wife Kanchi Kaul has also been an actress. What is your relationship like?
Kanchi is the love of my life—my everything. She’s the perfect wife and a wonderful mother. I consider her presence in my life nothing short of a blessing. We share many common interests and have a great rapport.
Social media has become a huge part of young people's lives today. What are your thoughts on that?
The more you're attached to social media, the more it can hurt you. I believe in sharing only what’s necessary. Otherwise, it can consume you. As for children, I genuinely feel they shouldn’t be on social media at all. It can negatively impact their mental health.
What message would you like to give your audience?
I’d like to tell all my fans—whatever you do, do it with a full heart and honesty. Never give up on your passion, no matter how tough the journey gets. Balance is very important in life—between work, family, friends, and your health. Stay away from the noise of social media and value real-life relationships.
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