On his birthday, actor Shaleen Malhotra sat down with Times of India TV for an exclusive conversation about life, growth, career aspirations, and how he chooses to spend his special day. Known for his intensity on screen and humility off it, Shaleen opened up about the personal and professional transformations he's undergone in the past year—and what he wishes he could tell his younger self.

Reflecting on how 2025 has shaped him, Shaleen said, "The year 2025 has been a year of learning for me. I ventured into production a year back—actually, six months before that—and the last year has taught me a lot. I met so many people, which really helped me understand the business side of things."

He also dove deeper into his continued growth as an actor.

"I took acting workshops again, and with every workshop, you grow. I also started dubbing for films again, which is another beautiful art form that enhances your skills as an actor."

On a personal level, he noted how experience brings wisdom:

"Every year makes you a little wiser, a little more humble, and more aware. I’ve learned from my mistakes, apologized where I needed to, and kept moving forward. That’s life—it doesn’t end here."

While most celebrities celebrate their birthdays in grand fashion, Shaleen takes a simpler, more heartfelt approach.

"I’m a very lowkey guy when it comes to birthdays. I might step out with friends before or after the day, but on my birthday, I’m usually with family—my mom, dad, wife, and kids."

But the day holds even more meaning for him:

"It’s also my kid’s (his pet) birthday—Lux's birthday. No matter what’s happening in life, I will never skip celebrating Lux’s birthday, even if I skip mine. That’s one tradition I always stick to."

If given the chance, Shaleen would offer his younger self the wisdom he’s earned through years of highs and lows:

"Stay calm, stay focused, and don’t worry—life will unfold when it has to. You’ll make mistakes—tremendous ones even—but you’ll learn from them. Just live in the moment, be honest, and don’t lie. The few times I’ve lied, it backfired terribly and gave me an existential crisis. But those experiences made me a better human. So, be honest and humble. Everything will work out."

When asked if there’s a role or genre he dreams of exploring, Shaleen shared:

"I’d love to take on a hardcore, dramatic role. And honestly, I’d love to revive my character Arjun. I believe we were ahead of our time. If there was ever a time to bring him back—it’s now."

Fueling fans' hopes even more, Shaleen recently dropped a promo video that hinted at something exciting on the horizon.

"People have loved Arjun for years and keep asking for season two. It wasn’t a typical romantic show, yet the recall value is incredible. That video is my way of acknowledging their love. And I’ve always believed—never say never. Maybe, just maybe, season two might happen."

Shaleen has always been known for his deep gratitude toward his fans, and this birthday was no exception.

"I feel there’s a personal connection with each fan—even if I can’t always respond. The kind of love I receive, it’s the purest form. You don’t need to know someone personally to love them unconditionally, and I’ve been lucky to receive that love."

He added with heartfelt sincerity, "I just want to say—keep loving me the same way. I’m always trying my best to be worthy of your love. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart."