Avinesh Rekhi replaces Mohit Malik in Ganesh Kartikey as Lord Shiva: 'Portrayal carries immense reverence'

Avinesh Rekhi

Sony SAB's mythological epic Gatha Shiv Parivaar Ki - Ganesh Kartikey has been winning hearts with its soulful depiction of Lord Shiva's divine family. The show brings to life timeless stories of faith, values and presents the stories of the first family of the universe through a lens that resonates deeply with viewers.

Adding a powerful new dimension to this beloved show, acclaimed actor Avinesh Rekhi now steps into the revered role of Lord Shiva, bringing his nuanced portrayal to the revered character. Known for his commanding screen presence and emotional depth, Avinesh brings a powerful blend of strength and serenity to Lord Shiva, enriching the show's storytelling with his unique style.

Avinesh Rekhi on playing Lord Shiva

Talking about joining the cast, Avinesh Rekhi shared, "Stepping into the role of Lord Shiva is both an honor and a responsibility. The portrayal carries immense reverence, depth and emotional significance for millions of people and that awareness has guided every step of my preparation. As an actor, I am truly excited to bring my own interpretation to this revered character. My effort is to capture the emotions, the philosophy, and the inner calm that Lord Shiva represents. I want viewers to feel the depth behind his silences, the wisdom in his actions, and the unconditional love he carries for his family and devotees. The team has shown immense faith in me, and I am grateful for their trust. I genuinely look forward to connecting with the audience through Lord Shiva's journey and values."

Mohit Malik quits playing Lord Shiva

Previously, the role was played by Mohit Malik. The actor got candid about the role, "Playing Shiv is a divine responsibility, and the preparation had to come from within. It was very important for me to read about Shiv to understand his teachings, his relationship with his children Ganesh and Kartikey, his role as a husband, and how he guides us to be ideal human beings. I dedicate my one-hour journey to the set every day to deep meditation, which helps me slip into character even before I reach. Preparing for an intense Tandav sequence took me two months, during which I rehearsed 7-8 times in studios. When I finally performed the tandav on set, it turned out beautifully. This was one of the best dance experiences of my life, and I can't wait for the audience to see it."