Exclusive - Sharad Kelkar on ‘Tumm Se Tumm Tak': This role shows a romantic side of me that's rarely seen on-screen

Time of India

3 days ago

Popular actor
Sharad Kelkar
, known for his commanding screen presence and powerful portrayals in both films and television, has made a much-awaited return to the small screen with Tumm Se Tumm Tak produced by Prateek Sharma.
In the show, he steps into the shoes of Arya Vardhan, a successful billionaire whose life takes an unexpected turn when he crosses paths with Anu, a spirited young woman from a middle-class background.
The show weaves together the story of two individuals from opposite ends of the social spectrum, and Sharad believes that's exactly what makes it so special. 'Tumm Se Tumm Tak is about how two people from completely different worlds meet and find common ground through love and life's challenges,' he says.
'Anu comes from a lower middle-class family, and her life has been full of struggles. Arya Vardhan, on the other hand, is a billionaire who has worked extremely hard to be where he is.
It's not just a fairytale romance — it has depth, realism, and heart.'
For Sharad, the story was the biggest draw. 'Whether it's a TV show, a film, or a web series — the medium is secondary to me. What matters most is the story, the character, and the kind of work I'm getting to do.
This project ticked all those boxes,' he explains. 'The script has layers. There are emotional highs and lows and at its core, a very real, very beautiful love story.'
What makes Tumm Se Tumm Tak even more special for Sharad is that it marks his return to the channel — a channel where he has had some memorable associations in the past. 'For me, this is like coming back home,' he says fondly. 'The channel has always been close to my heart, and returning with such a powerful and emotionally rich character feels very fulfilling.
I want to thank Prateek Sharma, our producer, for bringing me back to this platform with such grace.
He is incredibly honest, grounded, and supportive — the kind of person who gives his actors the creative space they need.'
Sharad is also managing a packed schedule with a film and a web series in the pipeline, but he credits his team for allowing him the flexibility to give his best to each project. 'I'm fortunate to have a producer who respects my process.'
Widely regarded for his intense, action-oriented, or authoritative roles, Sharad sees Arya Vardhan as an opportunity to break away from that mold. 'Most people see me as this tough, no-nonsense guy — someone who's always playing a cop, a villain, or a stern character. But honestly, I'm a very romantic person at heart. That part of me rarely gets explored on-screen, and this role lets me express it in a very raw and vulnerable way,' he reveals.
'It's going to be a refreshing change for the audience to see this softer, more emotional side of me.'
He also speaks candidly about the challenges and rewards of working in television. 'TV is a very honest medium. You can't pretend for long — the character has to be relatable and consistent because you're living with it day in and day out. That's what I love about it. It keeps you rooted and connected with the audience in a very unique way.'
Sharad assures viewers that Tumm Se Tumm Tak will offer more than just a traditional romance. 'There are two distinct tracks in the show — both equally engaging. The emotional graph of the characters is dynamic, and viewers will get to see how their lives intertwine, grow, and evolve. It's not just about love; it's about transformation, healing, and discovering parts of yourself through someone else.'
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