Sharad Kelkar Breaks Silence on ‘Highest Paid’ Tag for ‘Tum Se Tum Tak’: “I Charge for My Work, What’s Wrong With That?”
Mumbai | July 7, 2025 — Acclaimed actor Sharad Kelkar, who headlines Zee TV’s latest primetime drama “Tum Se Tum Tak”, has finally addressed the swirling rumours about being one of the highest-paid actors on Indian television. Speaking exclusively to IANS, Kelkar maintained that after two decades of consistent work in the entertainment industry, he’s earned his place and his paycheck.
“Yes, I charge for it. What’s wrong with that?” said Kelkar, brushing off the speculation with composure.
“If someone is earning well, people should be happy—not jealous. It’s a sign of achievement,” he added.
A Return to Roots with Zee TV
The actor, best known for his performances in Laxmii, The Family Man, and numerous iconic television roles, called his return to Zee TV — the platform where his career began — a "homecoming."
“It just all came together. The story was great, the schedule manageable, and it’s airing on Zee — which is where I started,” he shared.
Kelkar revealed that he was approached for the project in January 2025, but had to initially decline due to prior shooting commitments. He was re-approached in March, and after reading the script, he found the storyline compelling enough to sign on.
A Love Story Between Two Worlds
At the heart of Tum Se Tum Tak lies an unconventional romance — a 19-year-old woman named Anu falls in love with a 46-year-old business tycoon, Aryavardhan, played by Kelkar.
The drama explores the collision of two contrasting worlds — one affluent and powerful, the other grounded and modest — through the lens of love, emotional complexity, and evolving relationships.
“What intrigued me was the format — like the promo says, two different worlds collide. One is wealthy, the other is from a humble background. And there’s a love story at its heart,” Kelkar elaborated.
He also emphasized that the show’s production format stood apart from typical daily soaps — it had a balanced script, manageable shooting schedule, and well-represented narratives from both worlds.
On-Screen Chemistry with Niharika Chouksey
Kelkar’s co-star, rising television actress Niharika Chouksey, praised the actor for his humility and mentorship on set.
“He is a very good human being. He does not carry his stardom,” she said.
“You can learn from him how even after reaching the height of success, one can stay neutral and grounded.”
“Tum Se Tum Tak” — Breaking Stereotypes
By pairing two leads with a significant age gap, Tum Se Tum Tak challenges conventional portrayals of love on Indian television. The show is also winning attention for its emotional depth, refreshingly real characters, and mature romantic themes that move beyond melodrama.
Sharad Kelkar’s casting is being hailed as a bold move that brings gravitas to the narrative. Viewers and critics alike are praising the show’s intentional storytelling, modern sensibility, and a strong departure from tropes.