Paras Kalnawat has recently joined the show Parineetii after a 20-year generation leap, taking on the role of Aditya Kashyap, a character who doesn't believe in love. His role is different from his previous sweet and romantic characters, showcasing a more serious side. In an exclusive conversation with Times of India TV, Paras opened up about a recent heartbreak , sharing how he plans to channel those emotions into his performance. He also spoke candidly about the pay cuts in the television industry, his close bond with Shraddha Arya , and his thoughts on possibly joining reality shows like Bigg Boss or Khatron Ke Khiladi .

After the pandemic, many people in the industry have talked about financial struggles . What’s your view?

It’s not just TV, almost every industry, including entertainment and corporate sectors, went through a hard time after COVID. Budgets were cut, projects slowed down, and work became less stable. Thankfully, I didn’t face major financial problems, but I did notice how things changed. Nobody was ready to invest in newcomers especially and they found it tough. The whole system is still recovering, but I hope things improve soon — not just for actors, but for everyone in the industry.

Now that you’re back with the channel, what about doing reality shows? Would you say to Khatron Ke Khiladi and Bigg Boss yes if offered one?

Yes, I’m open to it. I’ve been approached before, but I wasn’t ready back then. I never say “never” to anything. Who knows? Maybe next time I’ll say yes right away. I like trying new things and I believe there’s nothing wrong in doing a reality show, as long as you’re real and true to yourself.

You’ve always had a close bond with Shraddha Arya. She’s back now on Kumkum Bhagya, and she’s a mom! Did you meet her?

Shraddha will always be very special to me. She’s one of the kindest co-actors I’ve worked with. On Kundali Bhagya , we truly became like a family. I do regret not meeting her babies yet — I was going through a phase where I wasn’t stepping out much. But she did invite me, and I plan to visit her soon and meet the little ones.

You said you were in a phase where you didn’t step out. What were you going through?

Yes, I was going through something personal — a heartbreak, or breakup whatever you say. In a way, it’s similar to what my character Aditya is going through in the show. I believe actors need to feel things in real life to show them on screen. Maybe this experience came to me so I could connect more deeply with my character. I’m doing much better now, and I’m ready to use those emotions in my performance.