Gaurav Sharma on embracing the 'Charming Villain' label, reacts on viewers root for Yuvraj & Abhira in YRKKH

In the world of television dramas, villains often evoke strong reactions from viewers—either they're despised or leave the audience secretly rooting for them to win the main character's heart. In the case of Gaurav Sharma from "Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai," is is undoubtedly the latter category. Rarely do we encounter a villain who can captivate audiences with just a smile or by the way he says 'Baby.' But don't just take our word for it—this is the sentiment shared by viewers of 'Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai.' Well, India Forums got in an exclusive chat with the actor where we spoke about his journey in the show, a parallel storyline, camaraderie with the actors offscreen and much more. 

To begin with, fans of the show firmly believe that you are the most charming villain we've ever seen on screen. I'm sure you've come across numerous Instagram Reels echoing this sentiment. How does it make you feel to receive such recognition?

As an actor, receiving any kind of recognition or compliment is incredibly gratifying. I feel immense joy when the audience showers praises on me for my performance in the show—it's truly heartwarming.

Yuvraj is remarkable in every way, but his endearing term for Abhira, "baby," has truly captured the hearts of the show's viewers. Is there a backstory behind it?

I wanted to give my character in the show a unique quality. I thought that having a villain say charming words would be interesting and add a touch of humor, while also effortlessly expressing his love for Abhira. I'm delighted that people are enjoying it.

We think, There should be a parallel storyline where Yuvraj and Abhira end up together. You know, like how the heroine falls for the bad guy. What do you think about that?

Yaar, Dark novels mein toh hota hai aise. (Smiles) I wish aisa hota. However, I believe that for the audience of an Indian daily soap, accepting this might be a bit challenging. Yet, almost 90 percent of the comments I receive express the desire for Yuvraj and Abhira to end up together. They "ship" us, as they say. It was the first time I heard this term "ship," and then I understood that they meant they want to see us together. So, despite being a villain, the audience is associating me with the heroine, which indicates that I may have struck a chord with them, and that's a part of my job. It feels gratifying.

Almost 90 percent of the comments I receive express the desire for Yuvraj and Abhira to end up together. They "ship" us, as they say. It was the first time I heard this term "ship," and then I understood that they meant they want to see us together. So, despite being a villain, the audience is associating me with the heroine, which indicates that I may have struck a chord with them, and that's a part of my job.

- Gaurav Sharma

Don't you think Abhira would have been happier with Yuvraj than with Armaan? Because Yuvraj literally treats her like a queen, given his obsession with her?

Ofcourse, ofcourse aisa hota. Yuvraj is truly willing to sacrifice everything for her. He's abandoned his own father, committed murder, and yet he shows no signs of stopping. For him, nothing holds more importance than Abhira. It's as if he's like a horse with blinders on, only seeing the road ahead, or in Yuvraj's case, only seeing Abhira and nothing else.

Once again, the end of your character has been left open-ended. Does this mean we'll see more of Yuvraj in the future?

Yes, I hope so. Hope that happens. 

Give us a little insight into your camaraderie with the cast off screen?

I have a strong bond with everyone offscreen. I tend to connect with people quickly, whether they're actors, crew members, or even strangers passing by on the street sometimes. I believe in nurturing relationships with people you work with and travel alongside—it's a rewarding experience.

Who do yo bond with the most? 

I'd say, Abhira. I mean Samridhii, I bond with her quite well. 

What do you think of Gaurav's stint as Yuvraj on the show? Let us know in the comments below.