Latest news with #AbhishekMalik


Time of India
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Exclusive - Jamai No. 1 actor Abhishek Malik: Today audiences are drawn to characters who are unpredictable, who make mistakes, or unexpected reactions
Abhishek Malik, who plays Neel in Prateek Sharma and Parth Shah's Jamai No. 1, believes that audiences today are no longer satisfied with picture-perfect characters. According to him, storytelling on television is undergoing a major shift, and the change is being driven by viewers themselves. 'Gone are the days when the hero had to be flawless, always doing the right thing at the right time. Today's audience wants authenticity. They're drawn to characters who are unpredictable, who make mistakes, and who have odd habits or unexpected reactions. These kinds of roles bring a sense of realism and relatability,' he says. He adds that this evolution allows actors to dig deeper. 'As actors, it gives us a wider spectrum to explore emotionally and dramatically. Personally, I love playing characters who aren't afraid to break the mold or challenge stereotypes—it keeps the performance exciting and the audience guessing.' Abhishek feels that the audience has become more receptive to emotionally layered characters because they themselves have become more emotionally intelligent. 'They don't just want surface-level entertainment; they want to understand what a character is going through. It's no longer about black-and-white characters—audiences are embracing the grey, the layered, the vulnerable,' he explains. 'In a fast-paced world that often feels overwhelming, audiences are drawn to stories that can strike an emotional chord while also offering some thoughtful escapism. That balance—between light-heartedness and emotional truth—is what really resonates,' he adds. Speaking about the show, he says Jamai No. 1 is rooted in the changing dynamics of modern Indian families. 'Indian families today are evolving. There's a shift in gender roles, power equations, and generational perspectives. The jamai, who was once seen as a pampered outsider, now finds himself navigating a household of strong, opinionated women—with humility and presence,' he shares. 'Our show captures that transformation. It reflects the chaos, affection, ego clashes, and those unpredictable moments that define contemporary family life. It's not your conventional drama—it's layered, sharp, and speaks the language of today's viewers.' Having witnessed the evolution of Indian television over the years, Abhishek observes that the landscape is more dynamic than ever. 'Television has always adapted, but lately we've seen a major shift. Audiences are now looking for content that challenges the norm. Jamai No. 1 taps into that wave—it takes the familiar family setting and infuses it with satire, emotional depth, and a fresh point of view.' 'The show celebrates today's sensibilities—where control is shared, where women lead with unapologetic strength, and where drama comes from genuine emotion, not exaggeration,' he concludes. Muskuraane Ki Vajah Tum Ho actor Abhishek Malik shows his last clicked selfie on his phone


Time of India
24-07-2025
- Automotive
- Time of India
Calcom piloting manufacturing EV chargers in India: Executive Director Abhishek Malik
Calcom Vision has begun assembling EV chargers in India as it tests the waters of the country's fast-evolving electric mobility landscape. The company, best known for its LED lighting and BLDC fan electronics, is now working with a client exploring partnerships with electric vehicle OEMs. 'This is a pilot,' says Executive Director Abhishek Malik . 'But if the demand builds up, EV chargers could become a serious line of business for us.' While the chargers are currently being assembled at Calcom's existing facilities, the move signals a broader strategic shift. The company is now moving from high-volume consumer electronics into more specialised, automotive-linked products. It also reflects growing interest among EMS players to align with the government's EV push and the rise of domestic demand for charging infrastructure. Still, Malik tempers the optimism with realism. 'We're taking a calibrated approach. The economics have to work, and the supply chain, especially for core electronics, still leans heavily on imports.' A shift from commodity to capability Calcom's entry into EV chargers follows its relatively successful pivot into BLDC fans. This category also leans heavily on electronics but allowed the company to build on its LED lighting expertise. 'We made the BLDC shift during the COVID period,' Malik recalls. 'Lights and fans share the same distribution channel, so it was a logical extension.' But the scale-up hasn't been easy. 'Unlike LED lighting, which got a strong push from the government and big procurement volumes, BLDC fan adoption has been slower. It's still a price-sensitive category,' he adds. Even so, the company sees both BLDC and EV-related electronics as the next growth curve. These are higher-value and higher-complexity segments that are more resilient to commoditisation. 'You can't build a future on price competition alone,' Malik says. 'Eventually you have to own the product and the design.' The PCB problem: China still wins That ownership, however, remains elusive for much of India's EMS ecosystem. Malik is frank when talking about the current state of local sourcing. 'Even with 30 per cent anti-dumping duty, Chinese PCBs are cheaper. That's the kind of scale they're operating at,' he says. While Calcom has made progress in localising mechanical parts like plastic mouldings, sheet metal, and enclosures, the company still imports around 38 per cent of its bill of materials. Most of that is semiconductors and PCBs. 'The freight cost, duty, and logistics delays still don't add up to enough of a gap to justify shifting fully to Indian suppliers. Unless the ecosystem scales, it won't change,' Malik adds. Design first, assembly later Malik is also critical of the tendency to equate electronics manufacturing with mere assembly. 'If you're not designing the product, you're not in control,' he says. 'We've got used to being a low-cost labour country, with five people doing what a machine and one engineer would do in China.' He believes the bigger hurdle isn't funding or infrastructure. 'There's enough money to invest in R&D. The intent is missing. Most EMS promoters aren't thinking long-term. They're focused on quick top-line growth.' In his view, this is where India consistently falls short compared to competitors like Vietnam, Taiwan, or even Malaysia. These countries not only scaled manufacturing but also invested early in talent and design ownership. PLI push The government's PLI schemes, especially the focus on component manufacturing under PLI 2.0, are steps in the right direction, Malik says. But the real test lies in execution. 'We spent two years chasing a PLI that never materialised because of a political change. That kind of uncertainty kills business confidence.' Even now, he says, India's EMS industry remains fragile. 'There are less than 20 serious EMS players who are truly investing in capability. The rest are still doing basic assembly.' Calcom has set up a new subsidiary to push exports, with a target of getting at least 5 per cent of its revenue from overseas markets this year. Focus markets include the U.S. and Europe, both of which are increasing scrutiny on China-dependent supply chains. For all the gaps he points out, Malik remains cautiously optimistic. 'India has missed the electronics manufacturing bus many times before. This is our narrow window, maybe ten years, to get it right.' That, he believes, means investing in engineers, not just operators. In automation, not just manpower. And in design IP, not just imported PCBs. 'If we keep looking at this as a cost game, we'll lose. It's about value, control, and resilience.' The EV charger pilot, he says, is a small but symbolic step. 'We're testing if we can do it. And if we can, we'll scale. But only if the numbers and the ecosystem make sense.'


Time of India
03-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Jamai Raja actor Abhishek Malik on International Plastic Bag Free Day; says 'I keep a reusable cloth bag folded in my car and gym bag'
International Plastic Bag Free Day, observed on 3rd July, is more than an awareness date; it's a reminder to embrace conscious living, question convenience, and commit to choices that protect our planet. For decades, single-use plastic has seeped into every corner of our lives — from grocery runs to everyday essentials — but the tide is turning. More and more people are choosing reusables, making small shifts that together create a meaningful difference. On this occasion, actor Abhishek Malik from Jamai No. 1 reflects on the little habits embraced in his personal life — each a step towards sustainability, each a reminder that real change begins at home. Abhishek Malik, who essays the role of Neel in Jamai No. 1 said, 'International Plastic Bag Free Day is a much-needed reminder that change doesn't always have to be big or dramatic, it can begin with something as simple as saying no to a plastic bag. I'll be honest, there was a time I used to think, 'What difference does one bag make?' But then it struck me, I was using one almost every single day. That's over 300 bags a year, just from me. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Want to Become a Profitable Intraday Trader? Key Lies Here TradeWise Learn More Undo Now, I keep a reusable cloth bag folded in my car and gym bag. It's become second nature, like carrying my wallet or water bottle. I don't even think about it anymore — it's just part of how I live." He further said, "This year's message really resonates: we don't need a few people doing sustainability perfectly, we need millions doing it imperfectly, but consistently. I believe in that. Change doesn't have to be dramatic. It's in that quiet decision to carry your own bag, refuse plastic, and show up for the planet in small ways. That's where real impact lies.' The Jamai Raja actor is impressing the audience with his performance on the show. His chemistry with Simaran Kaur is also appreciated by fans. The actor recently recreated Allu Arjun's look from Pushpa 2 for one of the sequences of his show. Muskuraane Ki Vajah Tum Ho actor Abhishek Malik shows his last clicked selfie on his phone


News18
02-07-2025
- Entertainment
- News18
Jamai No 1: Abhishek Malik Channels His Inner Pushpa, Copies Allu Arjun's Look From Film
Abhishek Malik's recent look for Jamai No. 1 has left Allu Arjun fans surprised. Check out the pictures here. Popular television show, Jamai No. 1, is set to serve viewers a visually arresting and emotionally charged twist as Neel (Abhishek Malik) recently transformed into a never-before-seen avatar of Goddess Kaali Maa — one that channeled Allu Arjun's iconic look from Pushpa 2. Abhishek took this intense avatar as the current track of the show revolves around Riddhi's (Simaran Kaur) kidnapping and Neel's desperate mission to rescue her. On Wednesday, Abhishek Malik took to his Instagram handle and shared a series of pictures from the sets in which he was seen channelling his Pushpa look. He was seen sporting a full-body paint, dramatic eye makeup, elaborate temple jewellery, and a traditionally draped saree, completing the intense look. What truly upped the ante? Abhishek even performed a stylised, high-energy action sequence in this avatar, engaging in combat while draped in the heavy ensemble, bringing together devotion, adrenaline, and drama in a way that's never been attempted before. Talking about the sequence and the transformation, Abhishek said, 'Honestly, I was genuinely thrilled when I first heard about this track and I was going to play as Goddess Kaali Ma. I got goosebumps because the look is a complete replica of Allu Arjun's iconic avatar from Pushpa 2—fierce, intense, and rooted in power. We did a look test, and the response was amazing. Everyone on set loved it, and I even got a call from our producer saying, 'This look was made for you.' That meant a lot to me. It's something completely out-of-the-box—something that's never been attempted on Indian television before. This is a high-octane track, and what makes it even more exciting is that there's a major fight sequence woven into it. It felt like those grand, stylised action scenes in Indian cinema. The transformation process itself was quite intense. It took nearly two hours to get into the avatar, from the body paint to the heavy saree and elaborate temple jewellery. Everything was detailed and weighty. Performing powerful action sequences in that look was physically exhausting, but also incredibly empowering." The actor then added, 'This is, without a doubt, one of the most challenging and creatively fulfilling sequences I've ever shot. This look is unlike anything the audience has seen before on Hindi GEC. Jamai No.1 has always pushed boundaries, and this track is a perfect example. We've been shooting this sequence for over two days, and just removing and reapplying the paint and makeup each time is a task in itself—but I truly hope the audience feels the emotion, energy, and effort we've put into it." Jamai No. 1 airs every day at on Zee TV. First Published:


Time of India
18-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Exclusive - Abhishek Malik on winning hearts in Jamai No.1: TV keeps you grounded
Popular television actor Abhishek Malik, who is currently seen in the hit daily soap Jamai No.1, continues to captivate audiences with his performance, screen presence, and emotional depth. Known for his versatility and composed on-screen charm, Abhishek opens up about what keeps him anchored in the high-pressure world of television, the love he receives from his family, how he tackles feedback's, and the evolving dynamics between his character and Riddhi in the show. Speaking about the demands and beauty of working in the TV industry, Abhishek says 'Television is a very demanding medium—it requires long hours, emotional investment, and a high level of consistency. But it's also the most intimate connection an actor can have with an audience. When people welcome you into their living rooms every single day, when they look forward to your character's next move, that bond becomes very real. ' According to Abhishek, it's this daily engagement that allows actors to leave a lasting impact. 'You're not just part of a story—they start seeing you as part of their lives. That level of connection is incredibly humbling.' by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 2 & 3 BHK Homes Near Padur, OMR Starting @ ₹72.50 Lakh* TVS Emerald Undo For Abhishek, acting goes far beyond reciting lines—it's about emotionally stepping into the shoes of someone else. 'There are days when your character's pain stays with you long after the shoot ends. That's how deep the involvement becomes. The audience senses this honesty, and they respond to it. Many even begin to draw inspiration from the character, which is such a big responsibility.' He acknowledges how powerful it is when fans tell him they feel a personal connection with his portrayal. 'It's moments like these that remind you why you chose this craft in the first place.' Behind the spotlight and the fanfare lies a strong support system—and for Abhishek, that's his family. 'My parents are very supportive of my work. They watch every episode, sometimes even more keenly than I do! Their feedback, both good and critical, matters deeply to me. They're not afraid to tell me where I can do better, and that honesty keeps me grounded.' He adds that his parents' pride in his achievements is what keeps him motivated during the most challenging times. 'When they're proud, it means more than any award.' While social media can be a platform for immense love, it also brings unsolicited negativity. 'I genuinely enjoy reading heartfelt messages from fans—it lifts my spirits. But I've also learned that not everyone will have kind words, and that's okay. There will always be trolls, but you can't let them define your journey. I don't give energy to hate. My job is to stay focused on my growth, my work, and my truth.' Looking ahead, Jamai No.1 promises an exciting twist, particularly in the relationship arc of Abhishek's character. 'There's a major shift happening. Viewers will see a deepening bond between my character and Riddhi—it's warm, tender, and emotionally rich. But just as their closeness grows, life throws some unexpected challenges their way.' Muskuraane Ki Vajah Tum Ho actor Abhishek Malik shows his last clicked selfie on his phone