Tarun Khanna on playing Mahadev for the 17th time: It still gives me butterflies

With the television show Hey Bhagwaan – Kitna Badal Gaya Insaan, Tarun Khanna once again steps into the role of Lord Shiva, a character he has portrayed across television, theatre, and film over the years.

After featuring in mythological shows such as Santoshi Maa, Karmaphal Data Shani, RadhaKrishn, Namah, Devi Adi Parashakti, and Srimad Ramayan, along with the Telugu film Akhanda 2: Thaandavam and over 390 performances of the stage play Humare Ram, this marks the 17th time he will be seen playing Lord Shiva.Speaking about the new show, Tarun says, “It’s an interesting concept where God meets his bhakt. That, to me, is the ultimate fantasy for any human being.”Despite the familiarity, the actor admits the nervousness never fades. “I am always nervous whenever I play this character. Every time I step on stage or face the camera as Mahadev, I get butterflies in my stomach,” he shares.

Tarun’s association with the role dates back to 2013, when he auditioned for the titular character in Devon Ke Dev… Mahadev but did not land the part. Recalling that phase, he says, “I clearly remember auditioning for Mahadev and not being selected.

I asked Shiva only one thing: where did I fall short and why didn’t I get the role? After that, there was a continuous journey of playing this character. It feels like I am living my dream, and I feel blessed to get another opportunity to portray Lord Shiva on screen.

”He adds that while mythological roles have become a strong part of his identity, he has continued to explore varied characters beyond the genre. “I feel blessed to be offered this role again and again because, in the end, I am getting to play Mahadev, the god of gods. That is a huge compliment for any actor,” he says, adding, “At the same time, I do step out of this mould. I’ve had people who see me differently and cast me in other roles.

In the OTT space, I have played varied characters, including a recent project where I portrayed a completely negative role with no justification or backstory. He was simply bad, and I enjoyed doing it.”