Arjun Bijlani, a well-known face in Indian television, has recently shared insights into a difficult period of his life following the death of his father, Sudarshan Bijlani. In an interview with SCREEN, Bijlani reflected on his early life, the struggles he faced after his father’s passing at the age of 19, and his eventual entry into the entertainment industry.

Bijlani, born on October 31, 1982, in Mumbai, Maharashtra, comes from a middle-class family. He attended Bombay Scottish School and H.R. College of Commerce and Economics. He recalls his childhood fondly, noting that he was an average student with a penchant for sports. However, his life took a turn during his final year of college when his father passed away.

The actor described feeling "directionless" for almost a year after his father's demise, as the family responsibilities suddenly fell on his shoulders. "The elder son's responsibility came when my dad passed away. I was 19, in my last year of college, and life suddenly changed," Bijlani shared. The family had to sell their house in South Bombay and move to Malad, a place he had never heard of before.

Bijlani's father had wished for him to pursue an MBA and join the family business, which included a wine shop. Arjun, however, was drawn to the world of acting. Despite his initial lack of knowledge about the intricacies of the wine business, he and his mother took charge after his father's death. He recalls how some of his father's acquaintances suggested they sell the shop, but Bijlani and his mother decided against it. They decided they would rather shut it down than sell it.

He started modeling after the age of 20. Bijlani debuted on television with Ekta Kapoor's show "Kartika". He gained recognition for his roles in shows like "Left Right Left", "Miley Jab Hum Tum", "Meri Aashiqui Tum Se Hi", and "Naagin". He has also participated in reality shows such as "Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa 9" and "Fear Factor: Khatron Ke Khiladi 11," winning the latter. Additionally, he has hosted several shows, including "Dance Deewane".

Bijlani married Neha Swami in 2013, and they have a son named Ayaan. He has expressed regret that his father never had the chance to see him get married or meet his son. In a touching social media post, Bijlani shared a childhood picture with his father and brother, expressing his longing for the moments they could have shared as friends. Despite the early hardships, Arjun Bijlani has become a successful actor and host, a testament to his hard work and determination.