From Television Stardom to Digital Success: Nakuul Mehta's Evolving Career
Nakuul Mehta first captured the hearts of Indian television audiences with his memorable performances in popular daily soaps like 'Ishqbaaz' and 'Pyaar Ka Dard Hai'. These shows established him as a household name and a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. More recently, the versatile actor has successfully transitioned to the digital space, starring alongside Shriya Saran and Danish Sait in the engaging web series 'Space Gen Chandrayan'. In an exclusive and candid conversation, Nakuul reflected deeply on his extensive professional journey and the profound personal transformation that fatherhood has brought into his life.
Embracing Rejection: The Foundation of Resilience
Success in the competitive world of acting did not arrive easily or quickly for Nakuul Mehta. Looking back at his early years filled with auditions, the actor shared a stark reality in an interview with Mid-Day. He openly admitted that rejection was far more common than approval during those formative stages. "I've actually had more failures than successes," Nakuul revealed. "I would have auditioned at least 500 times in my life from the beginning of my career and not done a hundredth of that work." This staggering number highlights the perseverance required to build a sustainable career in Bollywood and television.
He explained that the entertainment industry inevitably forces actors to develop a thick skin and emotional fortitude. "I think at some point you realize that failure is not to be taken personally, nor is success," Nakuul stated. This crucial realization has been instrumental in helping him stay grounded, emotionally steady, and focused on his craft rather than external validation. It's a mindset that has allowed him to navigate the highs and lows with grace and determination.
Cultivating Gratitude and Living in the Present Moment
Despite spending many successful years in the industry, Nakuul Mehta does not take his career or achievements for granted. He acknowledged how improbable and distant his current reality once felt when he was starting out. "Like, for me to even imagine that I'd be living in Mumbai and make a career and have people watching your work is unthinkable," he shared, expressing genuine gratitude for his journey.
This sense of appreciation translates into his professional approach. Nakuul believes that every project, regardless of its scale or platform, deserves his full commitment and passion. "I feel like this could be your best and last piece of work, and you've got to celebrate that," he emphasized. "Then you're constantly moving and not being bogged down by your losses or by what's not there." This forward-looking philosophy keeps him motivated, proactive, and engaged with each new opportunity that comes his way.
The Transformative Power of Parenthood
Nakuul Mehta married his long-time partner, Jankee, in 2012, marking the beginning of a beautiful personal chapter. The couple expanded their family with the arrival of their son, Sufi, in 2021, and later welcomed their daughter, Rumi, in 2025. Parenthood, according to Nakuul, has brought a remarkable sense of emotional clarity and purpose to his life. "I think becoming a parent has changed a lot of things for me," he reflected. "Because when you go back, and in your child's eye, all he wants is for you to be present. You live for how you can become the best version so that this person can grow up to be a better human being."
He was quick to add that this transformation does not mean he is immune to human vulnerabilities. "It's not to say that I don't have days of insecurity. I do. I'm a human being, so I have it," Nakuul confessed. "But you build a circle of trust and friendship around you, where you can be honest. And then days of insecurity kind of pass." This honest admission underscores the importance of a strong support system in maintaining mental and emotional well-being amidst the pressures of stardom.
Navigating Work-Life Balance in a Demanding Industry
Speaking about the perennial challenge of balancing professional commitments with family life, Nakuul Mehta offered an insightful and honest observation. "I feel fathers are not considered parents on a set, unlike mothers," he noted. "A mother is always a mother, who's a working mother. It's never a working father." This comment sheds light on the often-overlooked dynamics and societal expectations faced by actor-fathers in the entertainment world.
Despite this perception gap, Nakuul takes his role as a father with utmost seriousness and dedication. He accepts the natural ebb and flow of life, understanding that some days will be dominated by work, while others will prioritize family. This balanced and realistic approach allows him to fulfill his responsibilities both on and off the screen without unnecessary guilt or pressure, setting a positive example for working parents everywhere.
