Paras Kalnawat, who became a household name after playing Samar in Anupamaa, had to exit the daily soap on a controversial note in July 2023 due to differences with the makers. Recently, in a podcast with The Motor Mouth, the actor recalled how Anupamaa brought him success and popularity. He credited the show for changing his life. He also opened up about the difficult phase when he was terminated overnight from Anupamaa after signing Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa.
The Changing Environment on Set
Kalnawat revealed that he was part of Anupamaa for two years and many things changed on set during that time. The environment started feeling different for him, especially in the second year. He spoke about it many times with his producer, Rajan Shahi, who is very close to him and someone he considers like a father figure. Shahi gave him a big opportunity in life. However, there were some issues between actors and the crew, and Kalnawat began to feel uncomfortable. His screen space also reduced, and despite several discussions with the internal team, nothing really changed.
The Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa Offer
At the same time, Kalnawat got an opportunity to do Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa. When he spoke to the team of Anupamaa, he was told he couldn’t do another show alongside it. He was given a choice—either continue with Anupamaa or leave and do Jhalak. He tried to manage both, but it wasn’t possible, so he decided to step away. Shahi gave the statement that he was terminated from the show.
Controversial Exit and Emotional Impact
Kalnawat described his exit as a difficult and emotional decision. It became controversial, but he left with a lot of good memories, relationships, and love from the show. Later, there were reports saying he was terminated. But the truth is, he had already discussed his exit earlier. Since they couldn’t come to an agreement, he was eventually sent a termination letter and asked to leave. He felt really bad at that time because, beyond everything related to the show, he had a lot of expectations from Rajan Shahi.
Wishing for More Support
Kalnawat always saw Shahi as a father figure. Even now, they share a good bond—they stay in touch, he wishes him on his birthday, and often sends him messages related to that father-son connection. But back then, he wishes Shahi had supported him more and told him to do what was best for him. Maybe he would have felt happier. That said, he understands how this industry works. Sometimes, professional decisions take priority over personal relationships, and he doesn’t blame him for that.
Fame and Identity from Anupamaa
Kalnawat acknowledged that everything came from Anupamaa. He had already spent around three years in the industry, done several shows, and even worked on web series like Ishq Aaj Kal, which got a good response. But the kind of fame a TV show gives, he truly understood it only after Anupamaa. People started recognizing him everywhere. He played Samar, and so many mothers would tell their kids to be like him. He could relate to the character too because he is very close to his own mother.
Personal Transformation
Seeing his mom happy because of all this meant a lot to him. That show gave him his identity. He experienced real fame for the first time—people crowding around for pictures, getting that kind of attention. Even on social media, he hit his first one million followers during that phase. Since then, his journey has been growing step by step. He has been giving his 100 percent to his work. He also worked on himself physically—he lost around 18 kilos because he didn’t want to limit himself to one image. There is a huge difference now, and sometimes people don’t even recognize him at first. He had a belly and a round face.
Willingness to Reunite with Rajan Shahi
Kalnawat expressed that he would honestly love to work with Shahi again. If Shahi ever calls him to do a show, he wouldn’t even think twice or negotiate. He would be more than happy to say yes and work with him again.
