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Harshad Chopda
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Harshad Chopda (born 17 May 1983) is an Indian actor known for his performances on Hindi television. His work has earned him seven Indian Television Academy Awards, six of which are Best Actor Popular, in addition to three Indian Telly Awards and two Asian Viewers Television Awards.[1] Chopda is also one of the highest paid and most awarded actors in Indian television history.[2]
Key Information
He made his acting debut in 2006 with the drama show Mamta and went onto feature in shows like Left Right Left and Amber Dhara. He received wider reach for his portrayal of Prem Juneja in Kis Desh Mein Hai Meraa Dil and Anurag Ganguly in Tere Liye. Chopda expanded his work profile by essaying Raghavendra "Raghav" Pratap Singh in Saubhagyavati Bhava and Sahir Azeem Chaudhary in Humsafars. He then established himself as a successful leading actor by playing Captain Aditya Hooda in Bepannah followed by Dr. Abhimanyu Birla in Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai and Rishabh Kapoor in Bade Achhe Lagte Hain 4.[3]
Early life
[edit]Chopda was born on 17 May 1983 in Gondia, Maharashtra.[4] His Marwari family has roots in the city of Balotra, which is located in the Barmer district of Rajasthan.[5] He finished his school education from Rabindranath Tagore School. Chopda then graduated in computer engineering from PES Modern College of Engineering, Pune.[6]
Career
[edit]Debut and breakthrough (2006–2017)
[edit]Chopda started his television career in 2006 with Zee TV's Mamta where he played Karan Srivastav.[7] From 2006 to 2007, he essayed the role of Cadet Ali Baig in SAB TV's Left Right Left.[8] This was followed by Sony TV's Amber Dhara where he portrayed Akshat Mehra opposite Kashmira Irani.[9]
From 2008 to 2010, he played Prem Juneja in Star Plus's Kis Desh Mein Hai Meraa Dil opposite Additi Gupta.[10] The show was a big success and broke records. From 2010 to 2011, Chopda essayed the role of Anurag Ganguly in Star Plus's Tere Liye opposite Anupriya Kapoor.[11] For it, he won the Indian Television Academy Award for GR8! Face of the Year and the Indian Telly Award for Best Actor In Leading Role Male Popular.
From 2011 to 2012, he portrayed Mohan Gala in NDTV Imagine's Dharampatni opposite Aasiya Kazi.[12] He followed it up in 2012 by playing Raghavendra Pratap "Raghav" Singh in Life OK's Dil Se Di Dua... Saubhagyavati Bhava? opposite Sriti Jha.[13] From 2014 to 2015, he was seen portraying Sahir Azeem Chaudhary in Sony TV's Humsafars opposite Shivya Pathania.[14] He essayed the role of a frosty businessman with a past.[15]
In 2017, Chopda made his film debut in 2016 The End where he played Rahul. The movie also co-starred Priya Banerjee, Divyendu Sharma and Kiku Sharda.[16]
Bepannah and further success (2018–2024)
[edit]In 2018, he portrayed Aditya Hooda in Colors TV's Bepannah opposite Jennifer Winget.[17] The show made a successful debut, entering the list of top five Hindi language shows in its first week.[18] In their review, Times of India said, "Harshad Chopda is a complete natural and plays his part effortlessly."[19] On the other hand, India Today felt, "Harshad nails his character of Aditya with some black humour and hard-hitting one-liners."[20] For his portrayal, he won the Indian Television Academy Award for Best Actor Popular.[21]
In 2020, he starred in Stebin Ben's song Juda Kar Diya opposite Erica Fernandes.[22] Chopda was also a part of the musical series Aakhiri Mulaqaat which spanned a total of four songs opposite Smriti Kalra.[23]
From 2021 to 2023, he played Dr. Abhimanyu Birla in Star Plus's Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai opposite Pranali Rathod.[24] In the popular and long-running family drama, his role was that of a heart surgeon.[25] He was the lead of the third generation and won the Indian Television Academy Award for Best Actor Popular four years in a row for it.[26]
BALH 4 and beyond (2025–present)
[edit]In 2025, Chopda portrayed Rishabh Kapoor, a businessman under an alias to get revenge for betrayal, in Bade Achhe Lagte Hain 4. He essayed the role opposite Shivangi Joshi.[27] He called the series a slow-burn: delicate, and deeply human with the concept of two unlikely people; both bruised by life, carrying silent scars who find themselves entangled in a relationship that neither of them saw coming.[28] He described his character as a mystery waiting to be solved or unsolved.[29]
Media image
[edit]Since 2017, Chopda has been placed on The Times of India's Most Desirable Television Men list.[30] He was ranked 16th in 2017, 8th in 2018 and 8th in 2019.[31][32] In 2018, his on-screen pairing with Jennifer Winget in Bepannah, won them the title of Times of India's Most Favourite Onscreen Jodi.[33] Chopda was also placed on Eastern Eye's 50 Most Sexiest Asian Men list. He was listed 19th in 2018 and 6th in 2019.[34] In 2023, he was placed at 30th in Eastern Eye's Top 50 Asian Stars of 2023 list.[35] In September 2023, he was reported to be one of the highest-paid actors on Hindi television.[2]
Filmography
[edit]Films
[edit]| Year | Title | Role | Language | Ref |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | Bondhu Amar | Joy | Bengali | |
| 2017 | 2016 The End | Rahul | Hindi | [36] |
Television
[edit]| Year | Title | Role | Ref(s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2006 | Mamta | Karan Srivastav | |
| 2006–2007 | Left Right Left | Cadet Ali Baig | [37] |
| 2007 | Amber Dhara | Akshat Mehra | [38] |
| 2008–2010 | Kis Desh Mein Hai Meraa Dil | Prem Juneja | [39] |
| 2008 | Kahaani Hamaaray Mahaabhaarat Ki | Arjuna | [40] |
| 2010–2011 | Tere Liye | Anurag Ganguly | [41] |
| 2011–2012 | Dharampatni | Mohan Gala | [42] |
| 2012 | Dil Se Di Dua... Saubhagyavati Bhava? | Raghavendra "Raghav" Pratap Singh | |
| 2014–2015 | Humsafars | Sahir Azeem Chaudhary | [43] |
| 2018 | Bepannah | Captain Aditya "Adi" Hooda | [44][45] |
| 2021–2023 | Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai | Dr. Abhimanyu "Abhi" Birla | [46][47] |
| 2025 | Bade Achhe Lagte Hain 4 | Rishabh Kapoor | [48] |
Music videos
[edit]| Year | Title | Singer(s) | Notes | Ref(s) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | "Juda Kar Diya" | Stebin Ben | [49][50] | |
| 2021 | "Humsafar" | Suyyash Rai | Musical series: Aakhiri Mulaqaat | [51] |
| "Pyaar Ke Saleeqe" | Lakshay Chaudhary Aakanksha Sharma |
[52] | ||
| "Ghalat" | Himani Kapoor | [53] | ||
| "Aakhiri Mulaqaat" | Suyyash Rai | [54] |
Awards and nominations
[edit]
| |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Totals[a] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wins | 16 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Nominations | 18 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Note
| |||||||||||||||||||||||
Television awards
[edit]Other awards
[edit]| Year | Award | Category | Result | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | Gold Glam and Style Awards | Most Fit Actor | Nominated | [69] |
| Most Stylish Actor | Nominated | |||
| TV Personality of the Year Male | Nominated | |||
| 2020 | Fitness Icon Male | Won | [70] | |
| Hotstepper Male | Nominated | |||
| Style Icon Male | Nominated |
See also
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ "Happy Birthday Harshad Chopda: 5 iconic roles that make him the ultimate dreamboat". Bollywood Hungama. 17 May 2020. Retrieved 21 September 2023.
- ^ a b "Meet the 7 highest paid actors and actresses on Indian television right now". GQ India. 20 September 2023. Archived from the original on 16 October 2023. Retrieved 28 September 2023.
- ^ "Five impressive performances of birthday boy Harshad Chopda". The Indian Express. Retrieved 19 November 2023.
- ^ "Here's how Bepannaah actor Harshad Chopda celebrated his birthday". India Today. 17 May 2018.
- ^ Shukla, Richa (30 April 2022). "Exclusive! It was sizzling outdoors, but the locations were gorgeous: Harshad Chopda, Pranali Rathod on shooting in Samode". Times of India. Archived from the original on 4 January 2024.
- ^ "#EngineersDay: Meet the TV actors who also have a degree in engineering". The Times of India. 15 September 2021.
- ^ "Merry Christmas: Bepannaah star Harshad Chopda's special wish will make your day". The Statesman. 25 December 2019.
- ^ "This is what the cast of 'Left Right Left' is up to". The Times of India. 11 July 2017.
- ^ "The actors of Amber Dhara: Where are they now?". The Indian Express. 23 September 2019.
- ^ "Lucknow's aura holds a different charm: Harshad Chopda". The Times of India.
- ^ "Harshad Chopda and Anupriya Kapoor in Tere Liye". The Indian Express. 4 June 2010.
- ^ "Harshad Chopda not comfortable with Bigg Boss". The Times of India. 12 August 2011.
- ^ "Harshad Chopda: I try not to get affected by rumors". The Times of India.
- ^ "Harshad Chopda returns with unconventional love story 'Humsafars'". The Times of India. 19 September 2014.
- ^ "Harshad Chopda: Took a break to find myself". The Times of India. 22 September 2014.
- ^ "Will cherish the experience: Harshad Chopda on his debut film". Hindustan Times. Archived from the original on 16 August 2023. Retrieved 22 August 2018.
- ^ "Harshad Chopda on working with Jennifer Winget: Cherish the camaraderie we share". Mid-day. 8 March 2018.
- ^ "Jennifer Winget and Harshad Chopda's Bepannaah makes a smashing debut; rakes in ratings". India Today. 29 March 2018.
- ^ "Review: Jennifer Winget and Harshad Chopda's Bepannaah breaks stereotypes with its unique story". The Times of India. 20 March 2018.
- ^ "Bepannaah Review: Harshad Chopda and Jennifer Winget shine!". India Today. 23 March 2018.
- ^ "Indian Television Academy Awards 2018 | Winners". The Indian Express. 12 December 2018.
- ^ "Erica Fernandes shares a candid picture with Harshad Chopda ahead of their music video". Bollywood Hungama. October 2020.
- ^ "Harshad Chopda, Smriti Kalra join musical series Aakhiri Mulaqaat". Sify.
- ^ "Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai: Harshad Chopda and Pranali Rathod start shooting in Udaipur; see BTS photos, videos". The Times of India. 20 October 2021.
- ^ "Harshad Chopda, who is part of the Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai trilogy, talks about his role and the show". Tribune India.
- ^ "Indian Television Awards 2023: Tejasswi Prakash, Harshad Chopda bag trophies". India Today. 11 December 2023.
- ^ "Bade Acche Lagte Hai new season first look: Harshad Chopda and Shivangi Joshi share a delightful chemistry. Watch". The Indian Express. 26 March 2025. Retrieved 26 March 2025.
- ^ Hungama, Bollywood (14 June 2025). "Bade Achhe Lagte Hain – Naya Season: Harshad Chopda and Shivangi Joshi reveal what makes Rishabh and Bhagyashree special; deets inside : Bollywood News - Bollywood Hungama". Retrieved 17 June 2025.
- ^ "Bade Acche Lagte Hain 4: Harshad Chopda Says This Season Is Not 'Typical Love Story'". News18. Retrieved 16 June 2025.
- ^ "Meet The Times 20 Most Desirable Men on TV". The Times of India.
- ^ "Top 20 Most Desirable Men on Indian Television 2018". The Times of India. 16 May 2019.
- ^ "Meet the Times Top 20 Most Desirable Men on TV 2019". The Times of India. 4 September 2020.
- ^ "Jennifer Winget and Harshad Chopda voted as the Most Favourite Onscreen Jodi of 2018". The Times of India. 24 December 2018.
- ^ "Madhubala fame Vivian Dsena becomes the third sexiest Asian man in the world; Harshad Chopda stands sixth". The Times of India. 6 December 2019.
- ^ "Top 50 Asian stars of 2023". Eastern Eye. Retrieved 16 December 2023.
- ^ "2016 The End's trailer is out!". International Business Times.
- ^ "Five youth shows we miss on television". The Indian Express. 12 January 2021.
- ^ "Harshad Chopda: Change has become a part of my lifestyle". NDTV.
- ^ "All in the family". The Indian Express. 16 May 2009.
- ^ "Actors sweat it out for Ekta's 'Mahabharat'". DNA India.
- ^ "On the right side!". The Hindu.
- ^ "It's not about Gandhiji: Harshad Chopra". The Times of India. 5 August 2011.
- ^ "Twists, turns ahead for Humsafars". The Indian Express. 26 December 2014.
- ^ "Bepannaah: Jennifer Winget and Harshad Chopda's story of love and betrayal". Mid-day. 15 March 2018.
- ^ "Two Years Of Bepannaah: Here's why the Harshad Chopda and Jennifer Winget starrer show is unparalleled!". Bollywood Hungama. 19 March 2020.
- ^ "Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai takes a leap. Harshad Chopda, Karishma Sawant join as leads". India Today. 20 October 2021.
- ^ "Harshad Chopda commences shooting for Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai in Udaipur". Bollywood Hungama. 19 October 2021.
- ^ "Bade Achhe Lagte Hain promo: Harshad Chopda and Shivangi Joshi play the cute couple navigating through their relationship for a 'happy marriage'". The Times of India. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 25 March 2025.
- ^ "Juda Kar Diya poster: Erica Fernandes & Harshad Chopda's music video to release on this date". ABP Live. 4 December 2020.
- ^ "Erica Fernandes and Harshad Chopda share poster of music video Juda Kar Diya". India Today. 5 December 2020.
- ^ "Humsafar sung by Suyyash Rai featuring Smriti Kalra and Harshad Chopda". The Times of India.
- ^ "Harshad Chopda, Smriti Kalra join musical series 'Aakhiri Mulaqaat'". Daijiworld Media.
- ^ "Telly Tattle: A musical tale". Mid-day.
- ^ "Aakhiri Mulaqaat sung by Suyyash Rai featuring Smriti Kalra and Harshad Chopda". The Times of India.
- ^ "Indian Television Academy Awards 2010 | Winners". Gr8! Mag.
- ^ "The Tenth Indian Telly Awards Winners". Indian Telly Awards. Archived from the original on 16 October 2013.
- ^ "ITA Awards 2018: Harshad Chopda, Divyanka Tripathi, Surbhi Chandna walk away with trophies!". ABP Live. 12 December 2018.
- ^ "Harshad bags award". Tribune India.
- ^ "Lions Gold Awards 2019: Vicky Kaushal, Janhvi Kapoor and Mouni Roy win big". The Indian Express.
- ^ "Erica Fernandes and Harshad Chopda win big at Asian Viewers Television Awards in London". The Times of India. 19 November 2019.
- ^ "ITA Awards 2022: Harshad Chopda, Nakuul Mehta, Anupamaa Win Big; Here's the Complete Winners List". News18.
- ^ "ITA Awards 2022 complete winners list: Varun Dhawan, Nakuul Mehta, The Kashmir Files win big". The Indian Express. 12 December 2022.
- ^ a b "Celebs win big at Indian Telly Awards 2023". India Today. 26 April 2023.
- ^ "ITA Awards 2023: Tejasswi Prakash, Harshad Chopda win big; Hrithik Roshan dances to 'Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai'". The Indian Express. 11 December 2023.
- ^ "Pinkvilla Screen & Style Icons Awards: Nominations for Best Actor Male TV Popular Choice". Pinkvilla.
- ^ "ITA Awards 2024 Winner List: Pranali Rathod, Rupali Ganguly, Harshad Chopra Sweep Top Honours". English Jagran. 10 December 2024. Retrieved 30 January 2025.
- ^ "Lions Gold Awards 2025 – See Pictures". Deccan Mirror. 12 December 2025.
- ^ "ITA Awards 2025 Winners List: Who Won Best Actor, Actress? Harshad Chopda, Rupali Ganguly, Kanwar Dhillon Are". filmibeat. 9 December 2025.
- ^ "Gold Awards 2020: Sidharth Shukla, Hina Khan, Surbhi Chandna to Kanika Mann, list of TV celebs who won big". INDIA TV. 25 November 2020. Retrieved 27 November 2020.
- ^ "Gold Glam and Style Awards 2020: Hina Khan, Sidharth Shukla win big". The Indian Express. 25 November 2020.
External links
[edit]Harshad Chopda
View on GrokipediaEarly life and education
Childhood and family background
Harshad Chopda was born on 17 May 1983 in Gondia, Maharashtra, India.[6] He hails from a Marwari Jain family with ancestral roots in Balotra, a city in the Barmer district of Rajasthan.[7] His father, Prakash Chopda, and mother raised him in a close-knit household, alongside his younger sister, Harsha Chopda.[8] Chopda spent his early years in Gondia, a small town where he grew up in a middle-class yet affluent family environment that emphasized education and family values.[9] Later, the family relocated to Pune to support his academic pursuits.[8]Academic pursuits
Harshad Chopda completed his schooling at Rabindranath Tagore School in Gondia.[7] He pursued higher education in Pune, Maharashtra, enrolling at P.E.S. Modern College of Engineering, where he studied computer engineering. He completed his graduation in the field, marking a significant phase in his early academic journey.[8] During his college years in Pune, Chopda balanced rigorous technical coursework with the city's vibrant environment, which exposed him to diverse influences. Although specific extracurricular involvements in performing arts during this period are not extensively documented,[10] Post-graduation, Chopda faced initial career deliberations between a stable path in engineering and his passion for acting. Prioritizing education as per his family's expectations, he completed his degree before transitioning to the entertainment industry, reflecting a deliberate shift from technical pursuits to performance arts.[11]Career
Initial entry and breakthrough roles (2006–2010)
Harshad Chopda, having graduated with a degree in computer engineering from Pune's Modern College of Engineering, transitioned to acting after prioritizing his education to satisfy his family's expectations. Despite his academic background, Chopda had nurtured a passion for performing through theatre during college, eventually convincing his parents to support his career shift following graduation. He moved to Mumbai in pursuit of acting opportunities, facing initial hurdles such as anxiety during auditions; in one early experience, he arrived at the venue for a commercial audition but fled due to nervousness without performing.[11][12] Chopda made his television debut in 2006 with the Zee TV series Mamta, portraying the supporting role of Karan Srivastav, a negative character in the family drama. The show marked his entry into the industry after persistent auditions, providing a platform to hone his skills amid the competitive landscape of Hindi television. This initial role, though brief, allowed him to gain visibility and experience in ensemble storytelling focused on familial conflicts and emotional dynamics.[13][14] His breakthrough came with the SAB TV youth drama Left Right Left (2006–2008), where he played Cadet Ali Baig, a disciplined yet spirited trainee at a fictional Indian Army academy. The series, centered on the camaraderie and challenges faced by six cadets navigating rigorous training, strict hierarchies, and personal growth, highlighted Chopda's versatility in blending humor, romance, and intensity; Ali's arc involved forming bonds with fellow cadets, pursuing a romance with Pooja Ghai, and confronting disciplinary trials that tested his resilience. This role significantly elevated his profile, earning praise for his authentic portrayal of military life and youthful energy, and establishing him as a promising talent in ensemble-driven narratives.[15][16] By 2008, Chopda secured his first lead role as Prem Juneja in Star Plus's romantic drama Kis Desh Mein Hai Meraa Dil (2008–2009), opposite Additi Gupta as Heer Maan. Prem, depicted as an ideal son, devoted husband, and principled professional from a modern family, embodied unwavering love amid family feuds, separations, and conspiracies that strained his relationship with Heer. The character's journey through heartbreak, sacrifices, and reunions underscored themes of destiny and enduring passion, contributing to the show's popularity and Chopda's rising stardom as a romantic hero capable of conveying deep emotional layers.[17][18]Consolidation and popularity (2011–2017)
Following his early breakthrough roles, Harshad Chopda continued to build his reputation through lead characters in family-oriented dramas that emphasized emotional depth and relational dynamics. In Tere Liye (2010–2011), he portrayed Anurag Ganguly, a reserved yet deeply romantic young man navigating family loyalties and a complex love story with Taani, played by Anupriya Kapoor. The series, centered on themes of sacrifice and familial bonds, highlighted Chopda's ability to convey subtle possessiveness and vulnerability, earning praise for the natural on-screen chemistry between the leads that resonated with audiences seeking heartfelt narratives.[19][20] Chopda's versatility emerged further in Dharampatni (2011–2012), where he took on the role of Mohan Gala, a modern, educated Gujarati man who returns from abroad to marry the traditional Kastur (Aasiya Kazi), exploring the clash between contemporary lifestyles and cultural expectations of marriage. The storyline delved into the evolving dynamics of a "dharampatni" (devoted wife) relationship, with Chopda's portrayal of Mohan's internal conflicts and growth adding layers to the show's examination of adaptation and compromise in urban Indian families. Despite the series' short run due to low ratings, it showcased his skill in blending humor with emotional intensity, appealing to viewers interested in relatable matrimonial tales.[21][22] In 2012, Chopda demonstrated range through his role as Raghavendra "Raghav" Pratap Singh in Dil Se Di Dua... Saubhagyavati Bhava?, a suspenseful drama inspired by themes of marital abuse and redemption. As the fearless, heart-driven Raghav—a principled character akin to Lord Ram in his moral steadfastness—Chopda brought charm and complexity to a narrative involving second chances and protective love, opposite Sriti Jha's Jhanvi. His performance, marked by reactive emotional depth, contributed to the show's exploration of empowerment and justice, further solidifying his appeal in multifaceted supporting-lead arcs that highlighted ethical dilemmas.[23][24] Chopda's popularity peaked during this period with Humsafars (2014–2015), where he led as Sahir Azeem Choudhary, an emotionally guarded Muslim businessman in an unconventional arranged marriage with the spirited Arzoo (Shivya Pathania). Set against a cultural backdrop of Lucknow's traditions, the series focused on two imperfect individuals overcoming personal traumas through mutual healing, with Chopda's intense, authoritative presence—accentuated by his bearded look and commanding dialogue—drawing viewers to the theme of redemption in love. The role's depth, portraying Sahir's journey from cynicism to vulnerability, fostered strong audience engagement, as fans connected with the nuanced portrayal of emotional barriers in relationships.[25][26] Throughout 2011–2017, Chopda's growing fanbase manifested in dedicated interactions, including meet-and-greets and social media appreciation for his authentic character interpretations, which emphasized maturity and introspection over earlier youthful roles. Industry peers recognized his consistency in delivering layered performances that bridged family dramas and romantic thrillers, enhancing his status as a reliable lead capable of sustaining viewer loyalty amid shifting TRP landscapes. This era marked his transition to more introspective narratives, cultivating a devoted following that valued his subtle expressiveness and commitment to role authenticity.[25]Revival and major successes (2018–2023)
After a period of relative inactivity following his earlier successes, Harshad Chopda made a notable comeback to television in 2018 with the lead role of Aditya Hooda in the Colors TV romantic thriller Bepannah.[27] The series, which aired from March 19 to November 30, 2018, centered on Aditya, a pilot who loses his wife in a suspicious accident alongside the spouse of Zoya Siddiqui (played by Jennifer Winget), leading to their unlikely alliance amid murder accusations and themes of second chances in love.[28] Chopda's portrayal of the grieving yet resilient Aditya, paired opposite Winget's Zoya in a chemistry-driven narrative blending romance and suspense, earned him acclaim for bringing depth to the character's emotional turmoil and moral dilemmas.[29] The onscreen duo's dynamic was a key highlight, contributing to the show's appeal as a fresh take on thriller-romance tropes in Indian television.[27] Following the conclusion of Bepannah, Chopda entered a hiatus from 2019 to 2020, during which he stepped away from daily soaps to pursue diverse acting opportunities beyond television.[30] This break allowed him to reflect on his career and wait for roles that aligned with his vision for more substantial characters, marking a deliberate shift after building popularity in his earlier shows.[30] The period underscored his selective approach to projects, prioritizing quality over continuous visibility in the industry. Chopda's return gained significant momentum in November 2021 with his entry as Dr. Abhimanyu Birla in Star Plus's long-running family drama Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, opposite Pranali Rathod's Akshara Goenka.[31] Portraying a dedicated neurosurgeon from a prominent business family, his character introduced intense medical drama elements, including high-stakes surgeries and ethical conflicts intertwined with romantic and familial tensions in the ongoing generational saga.[32] The arc, which spanned from 2021 to 2023, revitalized the show's narrative by focusing on Abhimanyu's principled yet passionate pursuit of love and justice, resonating with audiences through Chopda's nuanced performance.[33] His introduction notably boosted the program's Television Rating Points (TRP), propelling it from around 2.0 to a peak of 3.0 and frequently securing top chart positions, such as a massive growth in early 2022 and consistent leadership in weekly rankings.[34][32] Chopda exited Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai in October 2023, with Abhimanyu's storyline concluding dramatically through a fatal accident amid a planned generation leap.[35] The departure was driven by his desire to explore new creative avenues after growing attached to the role, though he expressed satisfaction with the character's impactful journey.[33] This phase solidified Chopda's status as one of Indian television's highest-paid actors by 2023, reportedly earning up to ₹3 lakh per episode for his work on the show, reflecting his elevated market value and the commercial success of his performances.[36]Current endeavors (2024–present)
In 2024, Harshad Chopda maintained a relatively low profile following his departure from previous commitments, focusing on select public appearances and award recognitions. He attended the 24th Indian Television Academy Awards in December, where he reunited with former co-star Pranali Rathod on the red carpet, fueling speculation about potential collaborations, though no projects were confirmed at the time.[37] Chopda marked his return to television in 2025 with the lead role of Rishabh in Bade Achhe Lagte Hain 4, a romantic drama series produced by Ekta Kapoor's Balaji Telefilms and aired on Sony Entertainment Television from June 16 to September 18. In the show, he portrayed Rishabh, a resilient and loyal character navigating themes of love, second chances, and personal growth amid family conflicts and unexpected twists, opposite Shivangi Joshi as Bhagyashree. The storyline emphasized a mature exploration of relationships, including emotional leaps that tested the protagonists' bond through trials like deception and resilience, with Chopda highlighting in interviews how each narrative shift added depth to Rishabh's evolution.[5][38][39][40] Despite initial buzz from the pairing's chemistry, the series concluded earlier than anticipated due to fluctuating viewership ratings and promotional challenges.[41] Post-Bade Achhe Lagte Hain 4, reports emerged in October 2025 of Chopda being in discussions for his digital debut on Netflix, potentially starring in a new drama series, signaling his interest in transitioning to OTT platforms amid the Indian television industry's shift toward streaming content for broader, more nuanced storytelling. While details remain unconfirmed, this move aligns with Chopda's expressed preference in recent discussions for roles that allow deeper character exploration over high-volume production schedules, reflecting his selective approach to projects that prioritize artistic growth.[42][43]Public image and legacy
Media recognition and rankings
Harshad Chopda has garnered significant media recognition for his desirability and industry standing through various rankings and polls. In 2017, he ranked 16th on The Times of India's list of the 20 Most Desirable Men on Television, reflecting his growing appeal following earlier roles.[44] His position rose to 8th in 2018, credited to his charismatic screen presence in ongoing projects.[45] This ranking held steady at 8th in 2019, further solidifying his status amid roles like those in Bepannah and Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai that amplified his desirability.[46] Media outlets have frequently described Chopda as a heartthrob and versatile actor, highlighting his blend of charm and range. Publications like MSN have portrayed him as a "popular television heartthrob" for his dashing looks and emotional portrayals.[47] In 2023, GQ India ranked Chopda 7th among the highest-paid actors on Indian television, noting his earnings of Rs 3 lakhs per episode for Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai.[48] This designation underscored his commercial value and influence in the sector. Chopda's personal style has received extensive media coverage through 2025, with outlets commending his sophisticated and trendsetting appearances. JustShowbiz highlighted one of his "most sophisticated looks" in a 2025 throwback feature, emphasizing his effortless elegance.[49] Times Now reported his 2024 Instagram post as "setting the internet on fire," showcasing his shirtless, confident aesthetic that resonated widely.[50] Fan polls have reinforced his popularity, with Chopda topping a 2025 JustShowbiz monthly poll as favorite actor, securing 27.21% of votes from over 108,000 participants.[51]Fanbase and cultural impact
Harshad Chopda's fanbase has grown substantially since his entry as Abhimanyu Birla in Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai in 2021, drawing a dedicated following especially among younger female audiences who admire his portrayal of intense, principled characters. This surge contributed to his status as a television heartthrob, with fans actively engaging through trends and campaigns, such as the widespread '#Massive Respect Harshad Chopda' movement following his 2023 exit from the show.[52][53] His social media presence underscores this organic engagement, boasting over 4 million Instagram followers as of 2025 who frequently celebrate his work.[54] Instances of extreme devotion, like fans getting tattoos in his honor, illustrate the depth of his influence post-Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai.[55] Chopda's roles have significantly shaped cultural narratives in Indian television, particularly by emphasizing romance intertwined with family values in contemporary urban contexts. In shows like Bepannah and Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, he portrayed protagonists navigating emotional complexities, promoting themes of hope, resilience, and relational harmony that mirror modern Indian family dynamics. His performances, noted for their motivational undertones, have inspired viewers to reflect on personal growth amid dramatic challenges, establishing him as a benchmark for romantic leads.[56][57][58] By 2025, Chopda's nearly two-decade career, spanning from his 2006 debut in Left Right Left to leading roles in Bade Achhe Lagte Hain 4, has earned industry tributes for his evolution into mature, nuanced characters. Co-stars and analysts praise his emotional depth and versatility, with fans dubbing him the "expression king" for redefining on-screen romance across generations. This legacy is evident in fan-driven retrospectives that credit him with elevating television's portrayal of urban relationships, ensuring his enduring resonance in Indian pop culture.[59]Filmography
Television series
Harshad Chopda began his acting career in television with supporting roles before transitioning to leads in romantic dramas. His notable television appearances include the following, listed chronologically:- Mamta (2006) as Karan Srivastav[60]
- Left Right Left (2006–2008) as Cadet Ali Baig
- Kis Desh Mein Hai Meraa Dil (2008–2010) as Prem Juneja
- Tere Liye (2010–2011) as Anurag Ganguly
- Dharampatni (2011–2012) as Mohan Galla
- Dil Se Di Dua... Saubhagyavati Bhava? (2011–2013) as Raghavendra Pratap Singh
- Humsafars (2014–2015) as Sahir Azeem Chaudhary
- Bepannah (2018) as Aditya Hooda
- Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai (2021–2023) as Dr. Abhimanyu Birla
- Bade Achhe Lagte Hain 4 (June 16 – September 19, 2025) as Rishabh[61]
Films
Harshad Chopda's ventures into feature films have been limited, marking a departure from his primary focus on television. His sole credited cinematic role came in the 2017 Hindi-language sci-fi thriller 2016 The End, directed by Jaideep Chopra.[62] In the film, Chopda portrayed Rahul, a supporting character among a group of four friends who uncover a conspiracy foretelling the world's end in 2016. The ensemble cast included Divyendu Sharma as the lead, alongside Kiku Sharda and Priya Banerjee, with the story blending apocalyptic themes and dark humor. Produced under the banner of Jaideep Films, it was released theatrically on October 13, 2017, and earned a moderate audience reception, reflected in its 4.7/10 rating on IMDb based on user reviews.[62][63][64]Music videos
During his break from television series following the conclusion of Bepannah in 2018, Harshad Chopda expanded into music videos, taking on roles as the male lead in romantic narratives that explored themes of love, heartbreak, and longing. This foray allowed him to collaborate with emerging musicians and showcase his acting versatility in short-form visual storytelling, often emphasizing emotional depth through subtle expressions and chemistry with co-stars. Between 2020 and 2021, he featured in five such videos, including a standalone release and four tracks from the musical series Aakhiri Mulaqaat, directed by Suyyash Rai and produced under Indie Music Label. The Aakhiri Mulaqaat series, released weekly from December 2021 to January 2022, starred Chopda alongside actress Smriti Kalra as a couple navigating complex relationships, with each song building a cohesive storyline of attachment and separation. Chopda's portrayals highlighted his ability to convey vulnerability and intensity, contributing to the videos' appeal among audiences seeking poignant romantic content. The inaugural standalone video prior to the series marked his entry into this medium, pairing him with television co-star Erica Fernandes in a tale of tragic separation.| Year | Title | Singer(s) | Co-star(s) | Notes on Role |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | Juda Kar Diya | Stebin Ben | Erica Fernandes | Portrayed a heartbroken lover grappling with separation, emphasizing emotional turmoil in a soulful ballad.[65] |
| 2021 | Humsafar | Suyyash Rai | Smriti Kalra | Depicted unwavering companionship in love's journey; first installment of Aakhiri Mulaqaat series.[66] |
| 2021 | Pyaar Ke Saleeqe | Lakshay, Aakanksha Sharma | Smriti Kalra | Explored the nuances of romantic etiquette and unspoken bonds; second in Aakhiri Mulaqaat.[67] |
| 2021 | Ghalat | Himani Kapoor | Smriti Kalra | Conveyed the pain of mistaken affections and regret; third track in Aakhiri Mulaqaat.[67] |
| 2022 | Aakhiri Mulaqaat | Suyyash Rai | Smriti Kalra | Culminated the series as a poignant farewell in a fading romance; released January 3, 2022.[67] |
Awards and nominations
Major television accolades
Harshad Chopda has garnered significant recognition for his television roles, earning six Indian Television Academy Awards (ITA Awards), including the Best Face of the Year in 2010 for Tere Liye and Best Actor - Popular wins for Bepannah (2018) and multiple seasons of Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai (2021–2024). These accolades highlight his versatility and popularity in dramatic roles, often determined by public voting. He has also received three Indian Telly Awards for his portrayals in Kis Desh Mein Hai Meraa Dil (2009, Fan Favorite Actor), Tere Liye (2010, Best Actor in a Lead Role), and Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai (2023, Best Actor - Fan Favorite). Additionally, Chopda has won five Star Parivaar Awards, emphasizing fan-favorite status in family-oriented narratives, including Favourite Jodi (2009) and Favourite Beta (2023), and two Asian Viewers Television Awards, recognizing his appeal to international audiences. The following table summarizes his major television award wins, organized by awarding body:| Awarding Body | Year | Category | Show | Citation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Indian Television Academy Awards | 2010 | Best Face of the Year | Tere Liye | [68] |
| Indian Television Academy Awards | 2018 | Best Actor - Popular | Bepannah | [69] |
| Indian Television Academy Awards | 2021 | Best Actor - Popular | Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai | [70] |
| Indian Television Academy Awards | 2022 | Popular Actor - Drama | Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai | [71] |
| Indian Television Academy Awards | 2023 | Best Actor - Popular | Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai | [72] |
| Indian Television Academy Awards | 2024 | Popular Actor - Drama | Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai | [3] |
| Indian Telly Awards | 2009 | Fan Favorite Actor | Kis Desh Mein Hai Meraa Dil | [73] |
| Indian Telly Awards | 2010 | Best Actor in a Lead Role | Tere Liye | [74] |
| Indian Telly Awards | 2023 | Best Actor (Fan Favorite) | Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai | [75] |
| Star Parivaar Awards | 2009 | Favourite Jodi | Kis Desh Mein Hai Meraa Dil | [70] |
| Star Parivaar Awards | 2023 | Favourite Beta | Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai | [76] |
| Asian Viewers Television Awards | 2018 | Actor of the Year | Bepannah | [77] |
| Asian Viewers Television Awards | 2019 | Male Actor of the Year | Bepannah | [78] |

