As the festival of colours approaches, television heartthrob Shivam Khajuria, who essays the role of Prem in the hit Star Plus show Anupamaa, opens up about his love for Holi, childhood memories, hilarious pranks, and why a crisp white shirt is non-negotiable for the big day.
Calling Holi his favourite festival, Shivam says, “Holi is pure madness in the best way possible! It’s that one day where you can throw colours at people, dance like nobody’s watching, eat way too many gujiyas, and blame everything on ‘Bura Na Mano, Holi Hai!’ It’s all about joy, bonding, and bringing out your inner child.”
The actor fondly recalls one of his most ridiculous pre-Holi experiences. “One year, my mom literally bathed me in coconut oil from head to toe before I went down to play. I was shining like a glazed doughnut! I kept slipping and sliding everywhere — I think people were more scared of hugging me than throwing colour at me. But hey, it worked!” he laughs.
A white shirt that turns into a multicoloured masterpiece by the end of the day is basically a trophy.
When asked who his first target would be if he were a Holi water balloon, Shivam surprises with a playful twist. “Honestly? Myself! I’d happily volunteer as tribute. I love the chaos of Holi, so I’d get drenched first and then declare the festival officially open!”
Sharing a hilarious “Bura Na Mano” moment, he recounts, “I once saw someone go up very sweetly with just a tiny pinch of gulaal… and in two seconds, the poor guy looked like he had fallen into a rainbow factory! The expression shift from trust to betrayal to laughter — epic!”
For Shivam, Holi fashion is all about going all in. “Definitely crisp white! If you’re playing Holi, play it properly. A white shirt that turns into a multicoloured masterpiece by the end of the day is basically a trophy. Plus, it looks great in pictures before and after the colour attack!” he says, clearly embracing the festive spirit.
No Holi celebration is complete without music, and for Shivam, there’s one evergreen favourite. “You can’t beat ‘Rang Barse’ from Silsila! The second it plays, everyone suddenly thinks they’re the main character in a Bollywood Holi sequence. But honestly, any high-energy track that gets people dancing is perfect.”
As for post-prank damage control? Shivam has the ultimate line ready. “The most powerful sentence in the universe: ‘Arre, it’s Holi!’ Once you say that, even the angriest person has to forgive you.”
Currently busy shooting, the actor admits his schedule might keep him occupied this year. “I’m busy shooting right now, but if I get even a little window, I’ll definitely steal some time to celebrate — a little colour, a little dancing, lots of food, and maximum masti with close friends and family.”
Here’s wishing all our readers a colourfully bright Holi!!
