Actors turn Santa this Christmas!

As Christmas approaches, the festive spirit is in full swing, and the excitement of Secret Santa brings an extra dose of cheer. &TV artists, including Aayudh Bhanushali (Young Atal in Atal), Geetanjali Mishra (Rajesh in Happu Ki Ultan Paltan), and Vidisha Srivastava (Anita Bhabhi in Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai), share their treasured childhood memories of Santa Claus and their heartfelt plans for this season of giving.

Aayudh Bhanushali, who plays the title role in Atal, recalls his childhood fascination with Santa Claus. “I always dreamt of getting a bicycle for Christmas. I would write letters and hope to find it under my bed. One Christmas, my parents surprised me with a bicycle, making my dream come true. That moment has stayed with me forever.”

This year, Aayudh was inspired by his recent visit to Gwalior, the hometown of the late Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ji, whose birthday coincides with Christmas. Reflecting on his experience, he shares, “The trip was deeply inspiring. Visiting Atal Ji’s childhood home and the public library made me appreciate his commitment to education and his remarkable life. This has motivated me to give back. To honor his legacy and spread festive cheer, I plan to dress up as Santa Claus on set and leave surprise gifts in everyone’s rooms. Though some may guess my plan, I’m doing my best to keep it a secret. Through this Secret Santa mission, I want to bring the same happiness to others that my parents brought to me. This Christmas, it’s all about the joy of giving and caring for others.”

Geetanjali Mishra, known as Rajesh in Happu Ki Ultan Paltan, fondly remembers her innocent childhood beliefs: “As a child, I thought if you hung your wish on a Christmas tree or in socks, it would come true. Since we didn’t have a Christmas tree, I would hang my wishes on house plants. When they didn’t come true, I thought it was because we didn’t have a real tree (laughs).”

She adds, “As I grew up, I realized that Santa Claus is someone who understands your needs and fulfils them even before you ask. For me, my forever Santa has been my mother. She’s always granted my wishes, big or small. This year, it’s my turn to give back. I’ve bought gifts for my mother with the help of my nephews. Even though they might not be a surprise, I know they will bring her joy. It’s a wonderful feeling, and I encourage everyone to bring happiness to their loved ones this Christmas. Merry Christmas!”

Vidisha Srivastava, who plays Anita Bhabhi in Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai, still feels the magic of Christmas. She shares, “As a child, I once wished for a teddy bear, and months later, it appeared out of nowhere. To this day, I don’t know if it was Santa or my family, but I was overjoyed!”

This year, Vidisha plans to make the celebrations even more special. “I’m excited to dress up my daughter, Aadhya, as Santa Claus. Though she’s too young to understand, I’ll be playing Santa for our loved ones, surprising them with gifts I’ve already wrapped. I can’t wait to see their reactions!”

Celebrate the joy of the season and tune in to your favorite &TV shows!

• Atal at 8:00 PM
• Happu Ki Ultan Paltan at 10:00 PM
• Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai at 10:30 PM

Airing every Monday to Friday, only on &TV! 🎄