Actors turn Santa this Christmas!

MUMBAI: As Christmas draws near, a festive atmosphere fills the air, and the excitement of Secret Santa adds to the holiday cheer. &TV artists including Aayudh Bhanushali (Young Atal in Atal), Geetanjali Mishra (Rajesh in Happu Ki Ultan Paltan), and Vidisha Srivastava (Anita Bhabhi in Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai) reflect on their cherished childhood memories of Santa and the heartfelt wishes they hoped their Secret Santa would fulfil. Aayudh Bhanushali, who plays the title role in Atal, recalls, “I was always captivated by Santa Claus and dreamt of getting a bicycle for Christmas. I would write letters, hoping to find them under my bed. My parents later surprised me with a bicycle, making my dream come true. That moment has stayed with me. This year, I want to recreate that joy for others. Recently, I visited Gwalior, the hometown of the late Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ji, whose birthday coincides with Christmas. The trip was deeply inspiring. I learned about Atal ji’s remarkable life and contributions, and what touched me most was visiting the public library and his childhood home. His commitment to education has motivated me to do something similar in the future. To honour his legacy and spread festive cheer, I’ve decided to celebrate in a special way. I plan to dress up as Santa Claus on set and leave surprise gifts in everyone’s rooms. Although some might have guessed, I’m doing my best to keep it a secret. Through this Secret Santa mission, I aim to spread happiness, just as my parents did for me. This Christmas, it's all about embracing the spirit of giving and caring for others.”

Geetanjali Mishra, known as Rajesh in Happu Ki Ultan Paltan, remembers, “As a child, I believed that if you hung your wish on the Christmas tree or in socks, it would come true. Since we didn’t have a Christmas tree, I would hang my wishes on the house plants. When my wishes weren’t granted, I thought it was because we didn’t have a real Christmas tree (laughs). How innocent we were! But those memories still make me smile. As I grew up, I realized that Santa Claus is someone who understands your needs and fulfils them even before you ask. For me, that Santa has always been my mother. She’s my forever Santa, who has granted all my wishes. Now, it’s my turn to give. Along with my nephews, I’ve bought gifts for my mother. While they may not be a surprise, I’m happy knowing they’ll bring her joy this Christmas. It’s a wonderful feeling, and I encourage everyone to keep gifting their loved ones. Merry Christmas!” Vidisha Srivastava, who plays Anita Bhabhi in Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai, adds, “I still love making wishes.

The excitement of Christmas feels just as magical as it did when I was a child. I remember asking for a teddy bear once. A few months later, it appeared out of nowhere. To this day, I’m not sure if it was Santa or someone in my family, but I was overjoyed. This year, I’m excited to celebrate Christmas again and dress up my daughter, Aadhya, as Santa Claus. Though she’s too young to understand, I’ll take on the role of Santa for our loved ones, surprising them with gifts I’ve already wrapped. I can’t wait to see their reactions.”

Watch Atal at 8:00 PM, Happu Ki Ultan Paltan at 10:00 PM, and Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai at 10:30 PM, airing every Monday to Friday on &TV!