'Relationships will be tested': Anupamaa's Ansh aka Varun Kasturia on upcoming story line of the show

While working round the clock can get very hectic, actor Varun Kasturia, who plays the role of Ansh in the show Anupamaa, says that he loves being part of the audience’s daily routines. He adds that this is what makes daily soaps rewarding.

''TV, especially daily soaps, is a very demanding medium. The pace is fast, the hours are long, and you’re constantly on your toes. But that’s also what makes it special. A daily soap allows you to become part of the audience’s everyday life. They don’t just watch your character, they live with it. That kind of connection is rare and very fulfilling as an actor. It gives you a unique chance to grow with your role and evolve in front of a loyal audience,” he says.

Actors relate to the emotions of their character, and some viewers even try to imitate them in real life, he says, adding , “As actors, we often connect deeply with our characters’ emotions, it’s part of bringing them to life in an honest way. And when viewers start relating to or even imitating those characters, it’s both humbling and a reminder of how powerful this medium is. It shows that the story has truly made an impact. That said, it also brings a sense of responsibility. We’re not just performing, we’re influencing, sometimes more than we realise.”

As actors, we often connect deeply with our characters’ emotions, it’s part of bringing them to life in an honest way. And when viewers start relating to or even imitating those characters, it’s both humbling and a reminder of how powerful this medium is. It shows that the story has truly made an impact

- Varun Kasturia

As for feedback, he goes to his family to understand how he has performed. “My family’s feedback means a lot to me. They’ve seen my journey from the start, so their reactions, whether it’s praise or a little constructive criticism, always come from a place of love and honesty. And honestly, no matter how many people compliment your performance, that call from home saying, ‘You did well today,’ just hits differently. It keeps me rooted and motivated.”

He adds that social media is a double-edged sword when it comes to feedback, “Appreciation definitely feels good, it motivates you. But yes, social media comes with both love and trolling. I’ve learned not to take either too personally. The key is to stay focused on your work and remember why you started. Constructive criticism is welcome, but unnecessary negativity? I try not to give it rent-free space in my head. At the end of the day, you can’t control every opinion—only your response to it,” he says.

As far as his upcoming track goes, he says, “I can definitely say that some emotional and unexpected turns are coming up. My character will be facing new responsibilities and making some big decisions. Relationships will be tested, and you’ll get to see a more mature and sensitive side of Ansh Shah.”