By Anil Merani: Rohit Purohit’s 15-year journey in Indian television is a testament to his dedication and commitment to his craft. He has evolved from minor roles to becoming a leading star (Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai) known for his versatility and emotional depth. His career trajectory, marked by diverse roles, critical acclaim, and a growing fan base, reflects his unwavering dedication to honing his craft and adapting to the demands of an ever-changing industry.
Purohit debuted in 2009 with Shaurya Aur Suhani as Chitwan, a supporting role that introduced him to Hindi television. Early appearances in Adaalat (as Marco D’Souza) and Aise Karo Naa Vidaa (as Aryaman) were brief but crucial for building his skills and industry presence. His role as Suraj Purohit in Sanskaar Laxmi (2011) offered greater visibility, with the show’s success providing a platform to showcase his potential. These initial years laid the groundwork for his confidence and adaptability, as he navigated varied characters and genres.
From 2012 to 2017, Purohit’s career gained momentum as he embraced diverse roles across action, crime, and historical dramas. In Hum Ne Li Hai… Shapath (2012), he played Varun Kashyap, a dynamic character that expanded his fan base. His role as Karan in Arjun (2013) captivated the audience with his ability to handle intense, modern narratives. A significant leap came with Razia Sultan (2015), where he portrayed Malik Altunia, a complex lead in a historical drama. His nuanced performance earned praise, marking his transition to starring roles. Further roles as Dara Shikoh in Bharatvarsh (2016) and Alexander in Porus (2017) solidified his reputation, particularly in period dramas. His portrayal of Alexander, requiring physicality and intensity, was widely lauded, showcasing his ability to embody both heroic and antagonistic figures.
Between 2018 and 2023, Purohit diversified further with emotionally rich roles. As Ranvijay Shroff in Dil Toh Happy Hai Ji (2019), he led a light-hearted drama, while his portrayal of Dr. Vikrant Saxena in Dhadkan Zindaggi Kii (2021–2022) demonstrated his range in contemporary, socially relevant stories. His negative role as Advait in Udaariyaan (2021) was noted for its intensity, reinforcing his knack for complex characters. These roles, along with a 2018 Best Supporting Actor nomination at the Indian Television Academy Awards, underscored his growing industry recognition.
In 2024, Purohit’s career peaked with his role as Advocate Armaan Poddar in Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, one of India’s most iconic daily soaps. Replacing Shehzada Dhami, he embraced the challenge of a layered character navigating love, family, and professional duties. Fans have praised his emotional depth, particularly in scenes where he confronts his character’s inner conflicts, though some critiques on platforms like Reddit point to inconsistencies in highly dramatic scenes, often attributed to script limitations. This role has significantly boosted his popularity, with X posts highlighting his “versatility” and “star power.”
Purohit’s growth is also shaped by personal influences, including his wife, Sheena Bajaj, whose support has driven his ambition. His dedication to fitness, photography, and social media engagement has enhanced his on-screen presence and relatability. Despite challenges like potential typecasting and mixed reception, Purohit’s ability to transition across genres, earn critical acclaim, and sustain audience love—particularly in Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai—marks him as a seasoned actor. His ongoing journey reflects a commitment to refining his craft, with potential for further evolution in Indian television