Karan Kundrra is an actor, television host, and model who gained prominence for his work in Hindi television and films. He was born in Jalandhar, Punjab, India. Karan Kundrra made his acting debut in 2009 in the popular television show Kitni Mohabbat Hai on NDTV Imagine. His character of Arjun Punj resonated with audiences, earning him widespread recognition and a dedicated fan following. It marked a significant beginning for Karan Kundrra in the world of television acting. It’s always interesting to see how actors evolve from their debut roles, and Karan’s journey from Kitni Mohabbat Hai to various other projects demonstrates his growth and versatility as an actor. The show’s popularity and his portrayal of the character Arjun Punj undoubtedly played a crucial role in establishing his presence in the industry.
Following his debut, Karan went on to appear in several other television shows, including Bayttaab Dil Kee Tamanna Hai, Yeh Kahan Aa Gaye Hum, Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, and Dil Hi Toh Hai. He hosted reality shows such as MTV Roadies, Dance Deewane Juniors and MTV Love School. In addition to television, Karan Kundrra has also ventured into films. In 2018, he starred in Anees Bazmee’s film Mubarakan alongside Arjun Kapoor and Ileana D’Cruz and in Vikram Bhatt’s horror film 1921 showcasing his versatility as an actor. Karan Kundrra’s charm, talent, and versatility have earned him a significant fan base and critical acclaim in the Indian entertainment industry. He continues to explore new roles and projects, captivating audiences with his performances.
1). Your story is quite inspirational.please share a glimpse of it with us?
I started my career with a full-fledged daily soap back in 2009 and hosting came naturally to me when we decided to do Gumrah. For me, it wasn’t really hosting because it was a part of the story and the narration. We would play with the dimension of the storytelling. Eventually, Roadies and Love School happened. It has been challenging because hosting requires a lot of skills. I have seen these great hosts, and I have wondered if I would be able to do it. But it just happened. I did it my own way with my own sensibilities, and it worked.
2). 5 words to describe yourself?
The most important word for me is driven. I am honest and very passionate about my work. And the rest would be heart and heart!
3). When did you first realise that you want to work in the entertainment industry?
I never did realise it. It just happened. I was back in Punjab, and Ekta Ma’am saw me on Facebook. I was not even in Mumbai. I never imagined myself in the entertainment industry because I was so far even from the concept. It was completely a destiny. Ekta Ma’am called me Mumbai, and as they say, the rest is history.
4). Which was your most loved character till date?
All the characters that I have played are extremely close to my heart, but if I had to choose, it would be two – Arjun, my first character, and Ritwik from Dil Hi Toh Hai. The first character is always special because you actually learn on the fly, and Ritwik was very much me. The amount of confidence Ekta Ma’am had in me for the show was incredible! She allowed me to be whoever I wanted to be as long as I didn’t get the character gist out of it.
5). 2020 has been life changing for most of us, what is it that kept you going? Have you had any moments of introspection or learned any new lessons or skills recently?
A lot of introspection happened during the lockdown. From shooting for two shows, a film, and promoting a show to doing nothing – one is forced to spend time with yourself and introspect. Even the journey in the Bigg Boss has changed me completely. It has been a momentous period for me.
6). Your plans for the next 5 years?
I do not have a plan for next five years. I literally go by the flow. I am very particular about my career. So, I do things which I like, and I don’t do things which I do not enjoy . It is always about experimenting and looking at what life throws at me. As long as I am growing as a person and as an artist, it’s all good!
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Rapid-Fire
You at your first audition…
I never had the first audition. I was picked up from Facebook. But I did a series of tests later. The most important test was for Alankrita Shrivastava, who made Lipstick Under My Burkha. She was looking for a character for a Netflix film. I really wanted to be a part of that film because I wanted to work with her. And I gave my best.
Reality Show or web series..which one you pick…
Why can’t I pick both! I am doing both.
Your childhood crush…
Let that be in childhood! (Laughs) I had a crush on Julia Roberts.
Your biggest fear in life…
Fear of loneliness and ending up alone is my biggest fear! The kind of person I am, I tend to lose touch with my friends. Persons who all are there in my life are the one who have made an effort to be in my life.
Something that makes you happy…
Puppies make me happy, looking at a child play with his mother or father makes me happy, watching people smiling makes me happy.
An idea of a best & a worst date…
I have heard I am married, and I have two kids. I have heard things about my sexual orientation.
What’s the weirdest thing you’ve heard about yourself…
Constructive criticism is really good. I have always had a positive approach towards criticism. There’s a difference between trolling and criticism. I showed my music video to my girlfriend, and she gave me her honest opinion. It depends where it is coming from, and if it comes from someone who cares for you, you should take it.
Gym or Yoga…
None.
