Shubhangi Atre Looks Back at Gruelling ‘Kasturi’ Schedule: “I Slept in My Vanity Van”

Television actor Shubhangi Atre has revisited one of the most demanding phases of her career, revealing that she once worked for six consecutive days without a proper break while filming the popular television drama Kasturi.

During a recent interview, the actor reflected on the intense production schedules that were common in daily television soaps during the late 2000s, describing long working hours, quick costume changes and catching short naps inside her vanity van between shoots.

A Career-Changing Opportunity

Shubhangi shared that her journey into Kasturi happened unexpectedly.

At the time, she was already working on another television project when she was asked to meet producer Ektaa Kapoor for a new role.

Initially, she was hesitant to accept another show because of her demanding schedule. However, after being encouraged to attend the meeting, she eventually landed the lead role—a decision she now describes as a turning point in her acting career.

According to the actor, she was selected only a few days before the show’s telecast, leaving very little time to prepare.

“I Worked for Six Days Straight”

Recalling the hectic schedule, Shubhangi said filming began immediately after her selection.

She revealed that she continued shooting almost continuously for several days, moving directly from one set to another without a proper break.

During that period, she often rested inside her vanity van whenever short gaps became available between scenes.

The actor also remembered having multiple layers of makeup applied as she shifted between different shooting locations and schedules.

Daily Soaps Often Required Tight Production Timelines

Television dramas, particularly daily soaps, have traditionally worked under extremely tight production deadlines.

Episodes are frequently filmed just days before broadcast, requiring actors, directors and technical crews to maintain demanding schedules to meet telecast commitments.

Industry professionals have often spoken publicly about long working hours during this era of television production, especially for lead actors who appeared in the majority of scenes.

About Kasturi

Kasturi premiered in 2007 and featured Shubhangi Atre alongside Karan Patel in the lead roles.

The series followed the story of Kasturi, a strong-willed young woman whose life becomes intertwined with businessman Robbie. Their relationship unfolds through romance, misunderstandings, family conflicts and emotional twists.

The show became one of the notable Hindi television dramas of its time and remained on air until 2009, earning a loyal audience during its run.

Shubhangi Atre’s Television Journey

Following Kasturi, Shubhangi established herself as one of television’s familiar faces through several successful serials.

She later gained widespread popularity for portraying Angoori Bhabi in the long-running comedy Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain!, a role she played for several years and which became one of the defining performances of her career.

Her portrayal earned appreciation from audiences and further strengthened her place in Indian television.