COLORS’ ‘Meri Bhavya Life’: “Rishank is nothing like me, and that’s exactly what excited me,” says actor Karan Vohra

Say goodbye to clichés! COLORS’ ‘Meri Bhavya Life’ isn’t the story of a plump girl waiting for a makeover or a prince, it’s the story of Bhavya, a bold, plus-size architect who knows she doesn’t need fixing. What truly needs a makeover is the world’s narrow mindset. In a society quick to weigh people down with judgment, Bhavya rises with confidence, chasing big dreams instead of smaller inches. She wants acceptance, not approval; a partner who values her, not a project to change. When she crosses paths with Rishank, a fitness-obsessed man driven by his father’s expectations and his own deep-rooted biases, sparks fly but so do stereotypes. As he challenges her worth, Bhavya meets him head-on: unshaken, strong at the core, and her own loudest cheerleader. But can self-love hold its ground when constantly tested by someone else’s messed up standards? Starring Prisha Dhatwalia in the titular role and Karan Vohra as Rishank, ‘Meri Bhavya Life’ premieres on 30th April 2025 at 7pm on COLORS and JioHotstar.

1. Tell us about the show.
A. COLORS’ ‘Meri Bhavya Life’ is the story of Bhavya, a plump, confident, and talented architect who is constantly judged for her size rather than for who she is. In a world that values soorat over seat, she remains self-assured and carries herself with grace. The show highlights the everyday biases faced by women who don’t fit into conventional body size standards from rishta rejections to being undermined at work. When Bhavya is left at the mandap by a man who only wanted to marry her for her father’s status, she doesn’t break; she rebuilds. That’s when Rishank enters her life—her complete opposite. He’s conventionally good-looking and fitness-obsessed, yet insecure and image-conscious. She’s a plus-size girl and yet comfortable in her skin. He judges people by appearances, while she sees people for who they are. What starts as a clash of contrasting worldviews gradually unfolds into a journey where perspectives shift, and unexpected bonds are made. This is not the story of Bhavya’s makeover, it’s a powerful saga of how she challenges and shapes the lens through which people around her see the world.

2. Tell us about your character.
A. The character I’m essaying, Rishank Jaiswal, is the only child of the Jaiswal family: pampered, privileged, and rarely pushed outside his comfort zone. He’s the kind of guy who masks emotional immaturity with charm and casual arrogance. On the surface, he’s all laid-back vibes, except when it comes to fitness. That’s his obsession, his identity. He believes discipline begins with the body, and there’s zero excuse for not being in shape. That belief, though, is both his driving force and his biggest blind spot. He dropped out of college not because he couldn’t handle it, but because he thought he was meant for something bigger—his own fitness brand. For Rishank, that dream is the one thing that gives his messy, unplanned life a sliver of meaning. Then Bhavya walks into his life who is everything he dislikes. She doesn’t seek approval, doesn’t bend to fit in, and certainly doesn’t need validation from someone like him. Her presence alone unsettles him in ways he didn’t expect. What starts as s spat becomes a war between ideals and long-held biases.

3. What kind of prep did you do for your role?
A. Fitness has always been a huge part of my life, even before I got into acting. So, that’s one thing I have in common with Rishank. I went all in, which meant months of clean eating, brutal workouts, and saying no to cheat meals that I really wanted to say yes to. It wasn’t just about building a body; it was about embodying a mindset. Rishank wears his confidence—and his abs like armor. So, my lifestyle choices were part of building the character inside out. Beyond the physical prep, I also fine-tuned my dialect and expressions to stay true to Rishank’s vibe. Rishank, as a character, is nothing like me, and that’s exactly what excited me. I even read up on narcissists to understand his emotional armor and why he hides behind perfection. That’s what makes it exciting—when a character feels that real.

4. There’s quite a buzz around your new show, ‘Meri Bhavya Life’. How does it feel to be at the center of all this excitement?
A. It feels surreal. I’ve been part of some intense dramas before, but ‘Meri Bhavya Life’ has a different energy altogether. The kind of love we’re getting, right from the promos to the first few episodes, it’s overwhelming. What makes it more special is that I’m playing a character that’s so layered, someone I’ve never explored before. Seeing people talk about the show, tag us, message us, it just reminds me why I do what I do.

5. How was your experience collaborating with COLORS?
A. I’m incredibly grateful to the channel for placing their faith in me once again and offering me a role that dives deep into society’s obsession with appearances. COLORS has always stood tall for its bold, emotionally resonant storytelling—and being part of that legacy feels both powerful and purposeful. There’s a certain magic that COLORS brings to the screen, and contributing to that magic, this time in such a layered role—has been an absolute high. The team has been phenomenal, and the energy on set is infectious. Honestly, everything about this journey feels like it was meant to be.

6. What has your experience been like working with your co-actors?
A. It’s a masterclass! Working with stalwarts like Kruttika Desai, Hiten Tejwani, and Iqbal Azad has been an enriching experience. Their presence, the nuances they bring, and the commitment they show to every scene is inspiring. Sharing the screen with them has pushed me to dig deeper, perform better, and evolve as an actor. As for Prisha, she’s a breath of fresh air! She is a newcomer, but she walks in with this wide-eyed wonder and raw honesty that’s so refreshing. She is eager to learn new things and give her best to portray a scene with all her hard work. We’ve formed a great camaraderie off-camera, and that warmth absolutely reflects in our on-screen chemistry.

7. What’s the most exciting part of this journey for you as an actor?
A. For me, acting has never been just a job, it’s a calling. It’s about diving into stories that shake you, stir you, and stay with you. The most thrilling part of this journey has been the chance to portray a character that holds a mirror to society, challenging perceptions, questioning norms, and sparking conversations. Every character teaches me something—about the world, about people, about myself. And when that learning comes wrapped in powerful storytelling, the impact is unforgettable. That’s what keeps the fire in me alive.

8. Tell us about your experience of shooting in Bhopal
A. Bhopal has such a calm and grounded vibe; it really helped me get into the skin of my character in Meri Bhavya Life. My role demanded a certain emotional depth and connection to roots, and Bhopal, with its rich culture and simplicity, naturally brought that out in me. The people were incredibly warm and welcoming, and there’s something about those early morning shoots by the lakes or in the narrow lanes that added authenticity to my performance. It didn’t feel like I was just acting; it felt like I was living in Bhavya’s world every day. I think the city became a silent character in our story, and that made the whole experience even more memorable.

9. What are your thoughts about the theme of the show?
A. For me, Meri Bhavya Life is about breaking free from society’s expectations and owning your truth, no matter what shape or size it comes in. Bhavya isn’t the typical heroine, and that’s exactly what makes this story so powerful. It challenges beauty standards, questions outdated mindsets and starts conversations we should’ve been having a long time ago. As someone who’s always believed in authenticity, being part of a show that’s this honest and empowering feels incredibly special. It’s not just about entertainment, it’s about impact, and I’m proud to have contributed to it.

10. What made me say yes to the show?
A. Honestly, I’m nothing like Rishank in real life—and that’s exactly what drew me to him. He’s impulsive, image-obsessed, and judges people by appearances, which is the opposite of how I see the world. I’ve played grey roles before, but this one makes me feel responsible as an actor. Representing those problematic elements of society that encourage sizeism to the best of my capacity felt like a duty. What really sealed the deal was the theme of the show, how it tackles body shaming and society’s obsession with ‘fitting in.’ It’s a story that needs to be told, especially for today’s generation navigating impossible standards. I felt it was important to be a part of something so relevant and thought-provoking.

11. Any message for your fans?
A. I’m incredibly grateful for all the love and support that’s been pouring in since the promo dropped! It means a lot to see the excitement building around the show and the character of Rishank. I can’t wait for you all to witness his journey as the story unfolds. I promise to continue giving my best to this character for the audiences of COLORS.

‘Meri Bhavya Life’ will premiere on April 30th and thereafter air every day at 7PM only on COLORS.