'I don’t fit the criteria,' says Surbhi Chandna while recalling Naagin 5 offer

Television actor Surbhi Chandna recently spoke about her journey with Ektaa Kapoor’s popular fantasy series Naagin and the hesitation she felt when the offer first came her way. Appearing on Rashami Desai’s podcast, Surbhi reflected on the unusual circumstances that led her to accept the role during the pandemic phase.

Recalling the initial conversation, Surbhi admitted she did not immediately see herself as the lead of the show. “I don’t fit the criteria… I told them that I am dying to work with Balaji but give me some other show,” she said. According to her, the team asked her to take some time before making a final call, even as preparations for the season were already underway.

Surbhi explained that another actor was expected to start the narrative before her entry. However, the storyline involved reincarnation, and her character was introduced later as the Icchadhari Naagin. “Then there’s this story of reincarnation and then comes my role in the series as the Naagin and that’s when I instantly got into action mode,” she shared, adding that the shift helped her connect with the part.

The actor also pointed out that the COVID period influenced her decision. With limited work opportunities and long pauses between shoots, committing to a high profile daily show felt practical. She further mentioned that collaborating with Ektaa Kapoor had long been on her personal wishlist, which made the decision easier.

Host Rashami Desai added a lighter note to the discussion, joking about the unexpected attention that comes with the franchise. Laughing, she said, “Kids come up to you and say, ‘Aunty, Naagin ban ke dikhao na’,” highlighting how deeply the show connects with young viewers.

For context, Naagin 5 aired from August 2020 to February 2021 on Colors. The season featured Surbhi Chandna alongside Sharad Malhotra and Mohit Sehgal and followed the franchise’s established mix of mythology, romance and revenge.

Meanwhile, the makers are preparing to launch Naagin 7 with Priyanka Chahar Choudhary in the lead role. The new season will premiere on Colors and JioHotstar, airing on Saturdays and Sundays at 8 pm from December 27, promising a fresh chapter for loyal nationwide audiences eager.