A number of prominent Indian actors are making a comeback to television in 2025 after a significant hiatus. Their reasons for stepping away—and their decision to return—reflect the evolving landscape of the television industry. From seeking challenging new roles to managing the demands of other commitments, these actors share their perspectives on what has changed and why they’re back.
Smriti Irani
After a 22-year break to pursue politics, Smriti Irani returned to television with a reboot of her iconic show, Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi. She was drawn back by her long-standing relationship with producer Ekta R. Kapoor and a sense of pride in Indian television. She notes that TV has a history of addressing important social themes without being “preachy.”
Sharad Kelkar
Sharad Kelkar is back on the small screen after an eight-year gap with the show Tumm Se Tumm Tak. His primary reason for the long break was the demanding nature of film work, which requires a full-time commitment. He was also waiting for a role that would genuinely challenge him and felt that the character in his new show was the right fit.
Vandana Pathak
Vandana Pathak took a six-year hiatus from television, a decision she calls “carefully considered” because she wasn’t being offered any exciting roles. She explains that after decades of acting, she now seeks roles that are either substantial or well-paying. She also mentioned the comfort of working with familiar people. Pathak observed that the television industry has become repetitive and that the shift from weekly to daily shows has reduced the time actors have to develop their characters.
Gaurav Chopra
Gaurav Chopra returned to television after a five-year hiatus with Pushpa Impossible. His break was not a deliberate professional move but rather a step back from a cycle of repetitive roles. He found that even the “edgy” characters he was being offered began to feel the same. He decided to wait for a role that would truly excite him and allow him to showcase his creativity as an actor.
Ridhima Pandit
Ridhima Pandit also made a comeback after a five-year gap with the show Ufff…Yeh Love Hai Mushkil. For her, the decision to take a break and return was a “personal choice.” She waited for a role that would portray her in a new light, allowing her to have more control over her career and how the audience perceives her. Having worked hard to establish herself, she felt it was the right time to be more selective about her projects.