“Standing on that grand stage, holding the trophy, was a moment I will always cherish,” says Kanwar Dhillon aka Sachin from Star Plus show Udne Ki Aasha on winning his first ITA Award for the show

The Indian Television Academy Awards, which air on Star Plus, are regarded as the most anticipated night on the television calendar—an annual celebration that brings the entire television fraternity together to honour talent, performances, and storytelling. Over the years, the platform has received immense love from audiences across the country, and this year holds special significance as the ITA Awards celebrate their Silver Jubilee—25 glorious years of excellence. The milestone edition turned the awards night into a grand, festive gathering, making it one of the most awaited and celebrated evenings of the year. Among the many memorable wins at the 25th ITA Awards, Kanwar Dhillon’s victory stood out as a deeply personal and emotional milestone.

Sharing his experience of the historic night, Kanwar, who essays the character of Sachin in the Star Plus show Udne Ki Aasha, says, “Being part of ITA’s 25th year felt truly special. This year was even more meaningful for me as I was part of two Silver Jubilee celebrations — Star Parivaar Awards, which I hosted, and ITA. Being associated with both milestones made this year unforgettable.”

Talking about his win, Kanwar adds, “Winning the Best Actor Jury Award for Udne Ki Aasha made the night incredibly special. It was my first ITA win, and receiving it during the 25th-year celebration made it even more memorable. Standing on that grand stage, holding the trophy, was a moment I will always cherish.” The moment became even more emotional as his family witnessed the win firsthand. “My family and relatives were in the audience, cheering for me. Last year I had expectations, but this time I came with none — and that made the win even more priceless.”

Kanwar also delivered a powerful live performance at the awards, adding to the celebratory spirit of the evening. “This was my second ITA performance but my first-ever live performance on the ITA stage. Performing live in front of a packed audience was an entirely different energy, and I enjoyed every second of it,” he shares. Speaking about the performance, he adds, “I performed on upbeat numbers—my favourite zone—and sharing the stage with Pranali, Shalin, and Ashi made it even more fun. I hope audiences feel the same energy on screen.”

Reflecting on his most special ITA memory, Kanwar says, “This year, winning the Best Actor award and holding the trophy on stage has to be my most cherished ITA moment.”

Expressing gratitude, he adds, “Kudos to Anu Ranjan ma’am, Shashi sir, and the entire ITA team for carrying this legacy forward. Completing 25 years is a massive achievement.”

Concluding with a message to fans, Kanwar shares, “Thank you for all the love you’ve shown me, Sachin, and Udne Ki Aasha. This win is as much yours as it is mine. I hope you enjoy my performance when you watch the awards.”

Watch the 25th Indian Television Academy (ITA) Awards—television’s most awaited night and grand annual celebration—on 31st December at 7:30 PM, only on Star Plus.