Exclusive - Khushwant Walia: My first role Rubel in Pyaar Ka Dard Hai gave me everything — recognition, growth, and love

Actor Khushwant Walia, last seen in Mangal Lakshmi, gets candid about the one role that shaped his career.The actor, who became a household name as Rubel Deewan in his debut show Pyaar Ka Dard Hai Meetha Meetha Pyaara Pyaara, says that this character will always be special.Speaking about which role changed his career the most, he said, "I think it was my first show and my character there,” Walia shares. “Why I chose it? Because that was my first role, and I was part of that show for two and a half years. I joined six months into it, so I was on the show for two years total.”For Walia, Rubel wasn’t just a debut — it was a masterclass. “Since it was my first year acting, I was lucky the character arc was absolutely wonderful.

I still find it beautifully designed. When I talk to people from that show, they all say my character had the most growth,” he shared.From grey to negative to hero, Rubel saw it all. “I started out negative — I went from being a gray character to completely negative. People actually started hating me, you know?” he laughs. “Then came a journey where he turned positive. He became a loving husband, a caring little brother.

He was also physically disabled at one point. So I got a lot of variety to play within that one character,” he said.That range gave him more than just acting chops — it gave him recognition. “I would say that one role changed my life because it gave me recognition in the industry. Even today, people comment saying, ‘Oh Rubel, we recognized you from that role.’ Even when I’m taking a flight, I’ll meet someone who knows me till date because of that role,” he explainedCalling it his most challenging part yet, Walia adds, “So that role changed my career and gave me recognition.

I consider it very challenging because it was my first show, and because of all the layers I got to play. I learned so much from it.”Walia has since added several popular shows to his resume, including Gustakh Dil, Mere Rang Mein Rangne Waali, Ishq Ka Rang Safed, Sasural Simar Ka, Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, Naagin, Woh Toh Hai Albelaa among others. But for fans, he’ll always be Rubel first.