15 minutes agoAuthor: Ananya Gaur
Actor Raj Anadkat is gearing up for the release of his new family drama, Papa Kehte Hain.
In an exclusive conversation with Bhaskar English, Raj spoke about what drew him to the project, his character Pawan Pareek, the emotional heart of the story, and moving beyond the iconic role of Tappu from Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah.
Raj joined Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah in 2017, replacing Bhavya Gandhi.
What was it about Papa Kehte Hain that made you say yes to the project?
Honestly, the title itself got me excited. I kept wondering, Papa Kehte Hain… what do they say, and why do they say it? When I heard the narration, I instantly connected with the concept.
Raj joined Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah in 2017, replacing Bhavya Gandhi.
I really loved the story, and that’s what made me say yes to the show.
Tell us about your character, Pawan Pareek.
Pawan is a 24 or 25-year-old young man. At this age, most people are busy chasing their dreams, but Pawan’s life takes a different turn.
He has five siblings, and after their parents pass away, the responsibility of the entire family falls on his shoulders.
Raj is known for sharing fitness, travel, and lifestyle content on his social media accounts.
The best thing about Pawan is that he isn’t perfect. He makes mistakes, gets confused and faces challenges, but he learns from every experience.
Through this character, I realised that you don’t have to be perfect for your family; you just need to stand by them.
He also has dreams of his own, so the show beautifully balances personal ambitions with family responsibilities.
Along with emotional moments, the show has plenty of comedy and heart-warming family scenes that everyone can relate to.
Is there any particular scene from the show that you’ll always remember?
Yes, there is one scene where Pawan’s sister, Jharna, gets upset, and he tries everything to make her smile again.
That sequence is very special to me. We are making many beautiful memories while shooting, but so far, that has been my favourite scene.
How different is Pawan from the real Raj Anadkat?
I wouldn’t say we are very different because there are many similarities between us.
Just like Pawan reaches a stage where he wants to fulfil his dream while handling responsibilities, I also have dreams that I want to achieve.
He made his television debut with the show Ek Rishta Saajhedari Ka.
I’m a family person and very close to my family, so I could relate to many emotions of the character.
People still know you as Tappu from Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah. Do you ever feel it’s difficult to move on from such an iconic character?
Whatever I have done in the past is history. What I’m doing now will create a new history.
Raj enjoys a strong fan following on social media, with millions of Instagram followers.
I know Tappu has a special place in people’s hearts, but I believe that once they watch Papa Kehte Hain, they will remember Pawan too. As an actor, it’s my job to move from one character to another, and that’s how I see my journey.
Why should audiences watch Papa Kehte Hain?
It’s a complete family entertainer. The show has comedy, emotions, and relationships that every family can connect with.
At its core, it’s about love, responsibility, and standing by your family through every phase of life. I think audiences of all ages will enjoy watching it.
