Exclusive: Shubhangi Atre on Bollywood Debut With Bhabhiji Ghar Par Hain Film — “There Is Anxiety”

TV actor Shubhangi Atre is all set to make her Bollywood debut with Bhabhiji Ghar Par Hain: Fun On The Run, the big-screen adaptation of the hugely popular television show. The film also stars Aasif Sheikh and Rohitashv Gour and marks an important milestone for the long-running comedy franchise.

In an exclusive interaction with Moneycontrol, Shubhangi, best known for her portrayal of Angoori Bhabhi, admitted that the transition from television to cinema comes with a mix of excitement and nervous energy.

“I am very, very nervous. There is a huge transition from TV to film. Of course, anxiety is there. I also feel a sense of responsibility because the show already has a strong legacy. The big question is how the audience will respond,” she shared.

Excitement Around the Film Adaptation

Shubhangi revealed that the entire cast was thrilled when they first heard about the makers’ plan to turn the iconic sitcom into a feature film. She also remembered late writer Manoj Santoshi, for whom this project was a long-cherished dream.

“When we found out that the show was being adapted into a film, we were all extremely excited. Manoj Santoshi ji always wanted to see Bhabhiji on the big screen. Sadly, he is no longer with us, but this film feels like a tribute to his vision,” she said from her Mumbai residence.

Joining a Select Club After Khichdi

Only a handful of daily TV shows have successfully transitioned to cinema, with Khichdi being a notable example. Shubhangi feels fortunate that Bhabhiji Ghar Par Hain is now part of that list.

“After Khichdi, this is only the second time a daily television show has been made into a film. I feel very lucky and grateful to be part of this journey,” she added.

Pressure of Playing Angoori Bhabhi

Shubhangi joined Bhabhiji Ghar Par Hain in 2016, stepping into a role previously played by Shilpa Shinde. She recalled feeling the weight of expectations but stayed focused on making the character her own.

“There was pressure, but not stress. I knew I had to give my 100 percent. I focused only on my work and added my own flavour to Angoori. Eventually, it worked,” she explained.

Describing her approach, she said, “I became very focused. Everyone was watching closely, but I chose not to panic. I decided to play the character in my own way.”

Drawing From Real Life

For Shubhangi, performance is deeply rooted in real-life experiences. She shared how her mother influenced her portrayal of Angoori Bhabhi.

“My mother is a housewife, and she often sings while working in the kitchen. I incorporated that habit into Angoori’s character. When you perform with honesty, it reaches the audience. You can’t lie in front of the camera,” she said.

TV vs Film Experience

Talking about the difference between shooting for television and film, Shubhangi said the transition felt smooth.

“The characters were the same, and the nuances remained intact. Even with new actors joining the cast, everything felt seamless,” she noted.

Changing Viewing Habits and OTT Growth

Having worked in television since 2007, Shubhangi believes that Indian viewing habits have evolved and television needs to adapt.

“Different platforms cater to different audiences. TV still dominates rural markets, while OTT works well in urban spaces. OTT allows experimentation, and television also needs to move beyond repetitive family dramas,” she said.

She credited Bhabhiji Ghar Par Hain’s long run to its relatability and wide audience appeal.

“Every character is relatable. It was one of the first shows to attract male audiences in large numbers, with healthy and harmless humour. That’s why it has sustained for over a decade,” she added.

Moving On From Angoori

Shubhangi confirmed that she has closed the Angoori Bhabhi chapter and is eager to explore new roles.

“I am done with this character, and I am grateful for the journey. It has been a blessing. Now I want to challenge myself, try different roles, and discover new aspects of my craft,” she said.

Bhabhiji Ghar Par Hain: Fun On The Run is scheduled to release in theatres on February 6, 2026. Directed by Shashank Bali, the film also stars Ravi Kishan and Mukesh Tiwari and follows a chaotic road trip involving the beloved characters and a group of gangsters.