Aasif Sheikh Reflects on 350+ Roles in Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai and Says Playing Women Is a Creative Challenge He Loves

When you think of Indian television’s most versatile performers, Aasif Sheikh’s name inevitably comes up. For nearly a decade, his portrayal of Vibhuti Narayan Mishra in Sanjay and Binaiferr Kohli’s hit sitcom Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai has been a constant source of laughter and entertainment. But what makes him truly stand out is his unmatched ability to slip into completely new characters — over 350 of them so far — often transforming himself so completely that viewers do a double take.

Among these many avatars, more than 35 have been female roles, something very few male actors have attempted at such scale. But for Aasif, the challenge is a creative high, not a constraint. “When Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai started, a lot of research and development went into my roles,” he shares. “Slowly, the team began designing different characters and appearances for me, and the audience responded with love. I am grateful to my directors and writers who trusted me and gave me these opportunities.”

The process of bringing each role to life is detailed and deliberate. Aasif explains that every character begins with research and brainstorming sessions. Once the basic sketch is finalized, the team works on costumes and makeup before fine-tuning the language, mannerisms, and attitude. “To play any such character, my first approach is always to consider the variations that can be explored and the impact they will create. Once the look is set, we then define the language, attitude, and body language. Finally, I step into the situation and perform. That is my process,” he says with a smile.

For Aasif, it has never been about gender but about authenticity. “For me, a character is simply a character. Whether male or female does not matter; what matters is the authenticity with which you portray it,” he says. “I truly believe it’s not about gender, it’s about craft.” And yet, he admits that female roles come with extra work. From elaborate costumes and makeup to the physicality of carrying the role with conviction, these transformations are time-consuming but deeply satisfying.

One of the most memorable moments for Aasif was a track that required him to spend over two and a half hours just getting into costume and makeup. Shooting continued for days, demanding patience and dedication. But the effort paid off, as that particular look became a fan favorite. “These get-ups demand patience and dedication, especially when the shoot continues for days. But I enjoy doing it,” he reflects.

With such a range of characters behind him, Aasif Sheikh continues to prove that true acting is about versatility and fearlessness. Whether he is Vibhuti scheming to impress Anita or transforming into an 80-year-old woman for a gag, his performances remind us that television comedy can still surprise and delight. His ability to make each new persona memorable is what keeps audiences glued to their screens, episode after episode.