‘I am an actor — that’s who I am’

Aasif Sheikh opens up about four-decade career, playing 350 roles and more

Deeksha Pandey

Aasif Sheikh, best known for his role as Vibhuti Narayan Mishra in the long-running sitcom Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain, has carved out a rare legacy in Indian television. Recently recognised by the World Book of Records, London, Sheikh has performed over 350 distinct characters on the show, including more than 35 female roles spanning generations. His extraordinary versatility has become a defining pillar of the comedy series, which has entertained audiences for nearly a decade.

Sheikh’s journey in television began much earlier. He first appeared in India’s pioneering daily soap Hum Log in 1984, playing Prince Ajay Singh. From there, he seamlessly moved between mediums, acting in films such as Rama O Rama, Yaara Dildara, Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya and Karan Arjun. On television, he went on to feature in popular shows like Yes Boss and Dill Mill Gayye, before landing the role that would make him a household name in 2015.

Speaking exclusively to The Free Press Journal, Sheikh reflected on his career spanning more than four decades with characteristic humour and humility. “You are making me feel like I am receiving a lifetime achievement award and should pack up my things and leave,” he joked, before turning serious about what has sustained him for so long.

According to the actor, discipline has been his biggest strength. “My secret is to always be prepared for the future. No one knows what will happen, so you must keep yourself ready and your senses intact. Discipline is the key,” he said. Sheikh added that acting is not just a profession but his entire identity. “Acting is all I know. If someone were to take acting away from me, I wouldn’t be able to do anything.” With no “special mantra” or “rocket science” behind his success, Sheikh believes consistency and focus are enough. “I am an actor—that’s who I am. Acting is what I do. So, I just keep going,” he said, summing up a career defined by resilience, reinvention and an unwavering commitment to the craft.