Gunjan Utreja: My role in Madhubala ended because the script demanded it

Had Gunjan Utreja continued with his management studies, life would have been different for him. But this Chandigarh munda decided to follow his heart and went on to host events.
From hosting corporate shows and other events, Gunjan Utreja’s shot to stardom after he anchored Zindagi Ki Haqeeqat Se Aamna Saamna, was followed by character roles in daily soaps. His most recent telly outing — Madhubala...Ek Ishq Ek Junoon — kept him in the headlines for right and wrong reasons.Currently, part of a travel show Spirit Of India, Gunjan was in town to shoot an episode. Excerpts from a chat
Is this your first trip to Ahmedabad?
Yes! I love this city — there’s so much to explore here — the rich heritage, the festive celebrations, shopping, food et al. I visited Swaminarayan Mandir, Sabarmati Ashram, did some shopping at Law Garden and also went to Manek Chowk. I also went to a Navratri venue where I really enjoyed learning garba. I couldn’t learn much lekin maine garba performers ko bhangra karna zaroor sikha diya! I also loved the Gwalior dosa at Manek Chowk — it was so delicious.
Since anchoring is your first love, we’re sure you are enjoying this stint...
Absolutely! I would say this show is the best thing that has happened to me. I love travelling. Infact, anchoring/hosting makes me travel the globe. But with this show, I am getting to know our country in a completely different way — be it for religious, cultural, food or lifestyle reasons — this show is letting me learn a lot more than any book could possibly do.
READ: I'm single and career is priority: Gunjan Utreja
Your role came to a sudden end in your last show Madhubala...Ek Ishq Ek Junoon, how did you feel when that happened?
In showbiz, such decisions are nothing new. Many good shows are pulled off air as they don’t deliver numbers and everyone in the industry is aware of that; we just adapt to it. The same thing happened when my role came to an end. All this is for the betterment of the show, to cater the best to audiences. All the reports of a soured relationship with my producer, that led to my departure from the show are rumours. Abhinav (Shukla, the producer of the show) is like a brother to me and we share an amicable relationship. In fact, we communicate regularly and I’m very excited for his upcoming B-Town project, Ekkees Toppon Ke Salaami.
Do you manage to get any time for yourself with so much travelling and shooting?
I love to maintain my fitness and keep myself updated on the latest news. Both are essential as I’m an anchor. However busy I might be, I make sure I have time to read, watch good movies and workout. These three things make me feel good apart from travelling.
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