MUSBA HASHMI speaks with ANANG DESAI, known for playing Babuji in Khichdi, who is all set to play Anita’s father in &TV’s Bhabhi Ji Ghar Par Hai, about his role and what made him say yes

What is your role in Bhabhi Ji Ghar Par Hai about?

I play Danny Sharma, Anita’s father. He is a rich businessman settled in America and is visiting her daughter after about 12 years. He is disciplined, strong headed person and had disapproved  Anita’s marriage with Vibhuti Mishra. The story will revolve around how things happen between the trio, but in a lighter vein.

What made you take up the role?

It’s an interesting character.  When the role was offered to me, there was no chance of saying a no. The show is so popular and the character, of course, is exciting. The script is fabulous and all my co-actors are excellent. All these factors prompted me to take up the role.

A lesson that you learnt on the sets of the show.

The most important thing that I have learnt is discipline. It’s a disciplined set with all protocols set in place. Everything on the sets is to the point. Our director Rajan Waghdhare is also clear with his thoughts and he gives clear directions to the team. This is one of the reasons why all the characters have come alive.

Babu ji from Khichdi has been an iconic character. Can you travel back in time to tell us how did that show happen with you?

In 2002, Aatish Kapadia and JD Majethia, the makers of the show, offered me the role. They thought that I fit in the role. When they narrated the first episode, I was blown away with the script. The way those characters were written spoke of brilliance. I feel fortunate that I took up such a remarkable role.

What are some of the challenges that you face when you do comedy?

Comedy is a difficult genre and all the actors have to be fine tuned with the script given to them. Timing is also important. To maintain the timing and deliver exactly what we think is a task. But as trained actors we know how to tackle such situations.

How do you see your journey in the industry?

I see my journey with a lot of gratitude. I have played some landmark roles and have got a lot of love and affection from the viewers.