Arjun Punjj: You have to trust your craft, no matter how long the wait is

A 12-year gap from television can test even the strongest resolve, but actor Arjun Punjj never lost faith in his craft. Known for shows such as Sanjivani, Woh Rehne Waali Mehlon Ki, Saathii Re – Saat Kadam… Saat Janam and Arjun, the actor was last seen on television in Diya Aur Baati Hum in 2014. He has now returned to the screen with Hui Gumm Yaadein – Ek Doctor, Do Zindagiyaan. The toughest part of a hiatus is not the break itself but learning to live with uncertainty.

He shares, “Thanks to Instagram, your creative instincts can still be nurtured during breaks. But yes, uncertainty and frustration are what you really need to deal with, and that is not easy. It can take a toll after a while. You have to stay calm, believe in God and trust your craft that no matter how long it takes, there will be a day when you get that call and things begin to fall into place again. People feel frustrated when they are out of work for a year or two, and in my case, I returned after 12 years. Thank God, I held my ground, stayed calm and remained positive. The support of my family and fans, along with the positive atmosphere at home, helped me through that phase. Finally, I am back after a long time and everyone in the family is happy.”

The experience also changed the way he looks at financial security in the profession. He shares, “Acting is not a profession with a fixed monthly income. We should be wise enough to invest when the tide is in our favour so that there is some monthly income for survival. I see many young actors spending on fancy cars instead of investing in property. They feel arriving in a swanky car will increase their value, but that is not the case. I would advise them to invest and secure themselves for difficult phases.”

Arjun believes the conversation also extends to the kind of stories television is creating today and the space available for experienced actors. He reflects, “Good actors come with a price tag, and often producers choose newcomers because of budget constraints. It becomes a cycle. It is difficult for seasoned actors to find layered roles today. Mature love stories and narratives suited to experienced actors are not being made, which is why many of my contemporaries are not seen as often. I feel this is the time for limited stories rather than shows running for five years. Actors will have more work and good performers will return.”

The return came with a full-circle moment as stepping onto the hospital set brought back memories of Sanjivani and the beginning of his television journey. “When I entered the hospital set, it took me back to Sanjivani in 2003. It felt like life had come full circle,” he concludes.