Apurva Agnihotri Makes Television Comeback with Seher
Apurva Agnihotri has returned to television screens with the show Seher. This marks his first major role since his stint on Anupamaa concluded nearly three years ago. Interestingly, the actor initially rejected the part when it was first offered to him.
Why He Changed His Mind About the Role
"My first reaction is always to say no," Apurva admits with a laugh. "I don't know why that happens." He explains that he received multiple offers over the past couple of years, including opportunities in OTT shows. However, nothing felt quite right until he read a specific scene from Seher.
"The writing was so beautiful that it changed my mind completely," he says. "This project worked out well for me when others didn't." The actor maintains a philosophical attitude about his career choices. He expresses no regrets about passing on previous work opportunities.
"I have never been crazily ambitious," Apurva states. "If things go my way, I'm happy. If they don't, I'm still happy. That's just how I approach my career."
Reflections on His Bollywood Journey
Apurva made his acting debut in Subhash Ghai's hit film Pardes back in 1997. Despite the movie's success, his Bollywood career did not skyrocket as many expected. Looking back, he offers a candid assessment of that period.
"I did three or four films after Pardes," he recalls. "But in those days, the industry was ruled by just four or five major actors. People didn't really care about anybody else."
The actor believes his personality played a significant role. "I probably didn't have it in me to go out there and meet people constantly or attend endless parties," he explains. "I was simply not cut out for that particular world."
Television Success and Medium Neutrality
Television ultimately became his defining space. Apurva made a lasting impression with the popular show Jassi Jaissi Koi Nahin, which recently celebrated its 22nd anniversary. He attributes the show's enduring success to one key factor.
"The writing was incredibly strong," he emphasizes. For him, moving from films to television was never considered a step down. He holds a firm belief about the nature of acting itself.
"An actor is an actor, period," Apurva declares. "Whether you perform on the big screen, the small screen, or on stage in plays—the actor doesn't change. The craft remains the same."
Family Life and New Priorities
Apurva and his wife, actress Shilpa Agnihotri, welcomed their daughter Ishaani in 2022. Her arrival brought a decisive shift in their lives and priorities. The couple has established a practical arrangement to balance work and parenting.
"Shilpa and I have this unsaid understanding," he reveals. "Only one of us works at a time while the other stays home to care for our daughter."
He describes watching Ishaani grow as a daily wonder. "She surprises us every single day. It's truly amazing to witness her development." This new chapter has clarified what he wants from life.
"What I seek now is balance," Apurva says. "I just want life to be a beautiful mix of work and home. Nothing else matters as much."
Philosophy on Success and Contentment
Apurva admits that traditional stardom never held the powerful attraction for him that it does for many in the entertainment industry. He has developed a personal philosophy about happiness and fulfillment.
"I don't think I'm built that way," he says about chasing fame. "I've learned to be happy with what I have. That's also a part of spirituality for me."
He offers a piece of wisdom that guides his approach to life. "There's no point looking at what you don't have. You should rather focus on what you do have. That perspective makes all the difference."
In a final amusing revelation, Apurva shares that despite being in the entertainment industry, he hasn't watched a single episode of the popular reality show Bigg Boss 8. This perhaps underscores his selective engagement with the industry he works in.
