Lokesh Gupte, is all set to return to the small screen after a gap of nine years. He will be seen playing the role of Education Minister Vishwambhar Rajeshirke in Zee Marathi’s upcoming show Shubh Shravani. Speaking about his new role, Lokesh shared several insights into the character and the journey behind accepting the show.
Talking about his character, Lokesh said, “My character’s name is Vishwambhar Rajeshirke, who is an Education Minister. The story revolves around the relationship between him and his daughter Shravani. Vishwambhar has some bitter memories and incidents from his past, and their impact on him is so deep that he doesn’t even look at his own daughter. However, he has never fallen short in raising her or providing for her education or needs. Vishwambhar commands great authority at home and in the city because the empire he has built is entirely the result of his own hard work. His political background and the work he has done have always been for the welfare of the people. He is disciplined, strict, and helpful to society. Within the family, he shares a good bond with everyone except Shravani, with whom his relationship is distant and rigid.”
Recalling what went through his mind when he received the call for Shubh Shravani, Lokesh said, “In the intervening years, I was busy with writing and direction. When I received the call for Vishwambhar’s role, I was very happy—firstly because I was returning to television after nine years, and secondly because this was a strong character with a unique father–daughter relationship. Since I am a father to a daughter myself, this story touched me deeply, and that’s why I agreed to do this role.”
He further added, “My role is challenging and very different, and it gives me an opportunity to portray many varied emotions. In society, Vishwambhar is a respected figure who works for the greater good. In the show, he has a younger brother, sister-in-law, elder sister, her daughter, a son—many relationships with whom he shares warmth and understanding. But at the same time, his relationship with his own daughter is completely opposite—silent, harsh, and emotionally distant.”
Speaking about his preparation for the role, Lokesh said, “The information shared by producer Sandeep Sikand, the director, writers, and the channel is what I am currently absorbing and working on. I’m focusing on Vishwambhar’s demeanor at home and outside, and especially on his body language. I will try to present something different from my earlier roles. I’m confident that audiences will like this character even more, because they will see something new and distinct in it. I will give my absolute best to this role.”
On audience response, he shared, “I’m receiving a very positive response, and it makes me truly happy because I’m returning to television after so many years. Seeing the audience’s curiosity feels great. Many comments asking when the show will begin really touched me. What stayed with me the most was that even after such a long gap, viewers are still eager to watch me on television and see my role. That love feels wonderful. The response to the Shubh Shravani promo has also made me very happy, and I hope this love continues.”
Talking about the atmosphere on set, Lokesh said, “There is a lot of fun and positive energy on our set. Whether it’s the production team, our directors, or the co-actors—everything is excellent. I have worked with Asavari earlier, but the rest of the cast is new and very talented. From day one, there has been great cooperation, unity, and fun on set. Because of this, the positive environment that an actor needs while working is very much present here. Working as a team with my co-actors feels energetic and enjoyable. Right now, we are all getting to know each other better and discussing our characters. Everyone is making a sincere effort to portray their roles to the best of their abilities.”
