Veteran actress Himani Shivpuri, renowned for her memorable roles in Indian cinema and television, continues to win hearts as the witty and endearing Katori Amma in &TV’s popular sitcom Happu Ki Ultan Paltan. With a career spanning over four decades, Himani reflects on her journey, the challenges she faced, and the unwavering passion that fuels her craft.

A Remarkable Journey in Entertainment

Describing her 40-year journey in the industry, Himani says, “It has been a blend of highs and lows, each teaching me valuable lessons.” Despite starting her career in an era with limited opportunities for women, Himani carved her niche by portraying strong, relatable characters. Her performances, from iconic Bollywood films like Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ) to beloved television shows, continue to captivate audiences.

The Toughest Chapter: Losing Her Husband During DDLJ

Himani shared her most challenging moment, both personally and professionally, during the filming of DDLJ, when she tragically lost her husband. “I was left as the sole provider for my son. Those were dark days, but I found solace in my craft,” she recounts. During this tough phase, Shah Rukh Khan proved to be her pillar of strength.

“Shah Rukh constantly cracked jokes, engaged me in conversations, and ensured I wasn’t feeling lonely,” Himani recalls fondly. She also credits Yash Chopra and Pamela Chopra for their unwavering support. “Yash Ji told me, ‘Take as much time as you need. We are here for you,’ which meant the world to me.”

Despite her grief, Himani displayed resilience and used her dedication to acting as a means to heal emotionally and provide for her son.

Defining Her Career with Motherly Roles

Himani started portraying motherly roles early in her career, not as a conscious choice but as an organic progression. “Bollywood often slots actors into categories, and I found my niche in strong, timeless characters.” She believes these roles gave her career longevity, allowing her to highlight her depth and versatility as an actor.

The Secret to Her Energy

When asked about the secret behind her timeless energy, Himani credits her passion for acting. “Yoga, healthy eating, and travel keep me physically and mentally rejuvenated,” she shares. For her, travelling is not just a hobby but a way to gain fresh perspectives and stay grounded.

Venturing into Comedy with ‘Happu Ki Ultan Paltan’

Playing Katori Amma in Happu Ki Ultan Paltan has been a refreshing experience for Himani. “Making people laugh is a rewarding challenge,” she says. The audience’s love for her portrayal is overwhelming, with many finding shades of their own mothers or mothers-in-law in her character.

Himani fondly recalls a fan saying, “After watching the show, I started calling my son-in-law Happu and gave my daughters-in-law quirky nicknames.” Moments like these reaffirm her love for acting and the joy it brings to her fans.

Catch Katori Amma in Action

Watch Himani Shivpuri as Katori Amma in Happu Ki Ultan Paltan, airing at 10:00 pm, Monday to Friday, only on &TV!

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