Exclusive - Shivam Khajuria on playing Prem in Anupamaa: Supporting a strong woman doesn't diminish you, it elevates you

Time of India

30-06-2025

Actor Shivam Khajuria, who plays Prem in the popular series Anupamaa, opens up about how the role has not only shaped his craft but also influenced the way he approaches relationships in real life.
'Playing Prem has been a deeply rewarding experience,' says Shivam. 'He's incredibly loving and caring toward everyone around him, and what I admire most is how he always chooses to see the good in people. That's a quality I've tried to imbibe in my own life as Shivam too; being a little more patient, a little more empathetic, and leading with kindness in my relationships.'
In a television landscape that's long been dominated by stoic male leads, Shivam's portrayal of Prem offers a refreshing shift, a man who stands by his partner not from a place of dominance, but from deep understanding and respect.
'As for playing a male lead who embodies the idea of 'behind every strong woman is a man who supports her', it's actually quite liberating,' he shares. 'I believe that when a man can stand by his partner, truly understand her, and support her without ego, it only strengthens the bond between them.
Through this role, I hope more men can see that supporting your woman doesn't diminish you; in fact, it elevates you both.'
Shivam Khajuria began his acting career with the show Molkki, where he played the role of Naveen. However, the turning point in his career came with the TV show, Mann Sundar, in which he portrayed the lead character Nihar Goyal. In 2023, Shivam took up a grey-shaded character in
Kumkum Bhagya
, but later he made an exit from the show due to creative differences. He soon joined the cast of Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, playing the role of Rohit Poddar, Armaan's younger brother and Ruhi's husband—an important step forward in his acting journey. Presently, he is seen in Anupamaa as Prem "Tiku" Kothari, further expanding his presence in the television industry.
By portraying a character who leads with softness and strength, Shivam Khajuria continues to challenge outdated norms of masculinity on screen, while inspiring change off screen as well.
CHAT WITH SHIVAM KHAJURIA