'Emotional connection & relatability': Anupamaa's Varun Kasturia on how show STANDS OUT in OTT driven space

Varun Kasturia, who plays Ansh in Deepa Shahi and Rajan Shahi's Anupama, which is produced under their banner Shahi Production Pvt. Ltd., believes longevity doesn't limit risk-taking, but it comes with accountability to the audience.

He said, "I feel longevity comes with a certain responsibility towards the audience because they are deeply connected with the show and its world. But at the same time, I believe there is always room for fresh moments and new emotions within that structure."

"Audience's loyalty is actually a strength. It does make you more mindful, but it also gives you the confidence to try something new as long as it stays true to the essence of the show," he added.

Audience's loyalty is actually a strength. It does make you more mindful, but it also gives you the confidence to try something new as long as it stays true to the essence of the show

- Varun Kasturia

In a structured and fast-paced format of a daily soap, the actor brings spontaneity by being truthful in the moment. He added, "Even if the format is structured, every scene has an emotion, and I try to react honestly to that rather than overthink it."

Anupama has been topping TRP charts since it first aired, and in such a show, Varun feels it's important to protect one's individuality. He said, "I think every actor brings their own energy and interpretation to a character. I try to stay sincere to the role while also bringing my own understanding and personality into the performance."

I think every actor brings their own energy and interpretation to a character. I try to stay sincere to the role while also bringing my own understanding and personality into the performance.

- Varun Kasturia

But he stressed that both staying true to the character and adapting to constant script changes are challenging in a daily soap. He added, "But adapting quickly while still maintaining the character’s consistency can be a little more demanding."

Asked how Anupama stands out in today’s OTT-driven space, Varun shared, "I think strong emotional connection and relatability always stay relevant, no matter the platform. If the storytelling continues to connect with people, the audience will always stay invested."