Karan Mehra, who became a household name as Naitik Singhania in the long-running television show Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, has opened up about his decision to continue playing a father to grown-up children even after the show's generational leap. The actor stated that he never looked back on the role and that staying on after the leap was 'another subject' for him. He also explained why kitchen drama continues to drive television content.
Playing a Father to Grown-Up Kids
Mehra, who essayed the role of the idealistic and soft-spoken Singhania son from 2009 to 2016, called it a natural part of the show's journey. 'It was an arranged marriage love story. And I enjoyed playing a son, fiancé, husband, son-in-law, and father was another subject for me,' he recalled. He further elaborated, 'I believe this started in the sixth year. It was similar for the show as well. The story progressed, and even with the children growing up, I stayed on for about a year and a half after that. I had a good time with the cast and crew.'
The Enduring Legacy of Naitik Singhania
The role of Naitik Singhania still sticks with Mehra on the street. 'People still call me Naitik on the street more than Karan,' he said with a laugh. 'That's the kind of love you get when a show runs for over a decade and becomes part of people's daily lives.' He credited the show's decade-long run to its relatability over high-octane drama. 'We weren't doing high-octane drama. We were showing family, misunderstandings, festivals, small joys. That's why it connected across generations.'
Why Kitchen Drama Remains a TV Favorite
On why kitchen drama remains a television staple, Mehra kept it simple: 'Kitchen drama always works. That's just how it is. Other subjects might or might not work. Even with every show, there's often some kind of kitchen politics behind the scenes. So yes, drama is what really drives TV nowadays.'
Other Notable Works
Beyond Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, Mehra has starred in shows like Khatmal E Ishq, Shubharambh, and Mehndi Wala Ghar. He also appeared as a contestant on Bigg Boss 10 in 2016, further cementing his presence in the Indian television industry.
