Shubhangi Atre, widely recognized for her decade-long portrayal of Angoori Bhabhi in the popular sitcom "Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain!", is embarking on a fresh chapter in her career, acknowledging the evolving tastes of her audience. In a recent interview, Atre discussed her departure from the iconic role and her aspirations for new and diverse opportunities in the acting world.

Atre stepped into the shoes of Angoori Bhabhi in 2016, winning over fans with her portrayal of the quirky and endearing housewife known for her malapropisms. Looking back, Atre appreciates the support she has received and recognizes the increasing acceptance among viewers for actors seeking to explore different roles. "Social media has come to have a huge benefit for actors. It gives you a platform to showcase different looks," Atre told PTI in an interview. She recalled an incident where fans at the airport offered suggestions for roles she should explore next, which solidified her belief that audiences are now more open to actors transitioning between different characters. "That way, the audience has also become very accepting... Now you don't need to stay tied to an image. There is no stigma like that... It takes some time but after a short break, you can start afresh," she added.

Shubhangi Atre's journey in the television industry spans almost two decades, with roles in shows like "Do Hanson Ka Jodaa," "Havan," and "Chidiya Ghar". She believes that her craft has evolved significantly over time, thanks to the various experiences and her interactions with co-stars. "Earlier I was different, but now I observe more, I experience more, and I absorb things. All this helps in spontaneous performance. Your experiences help you grow professionally," she noted. She also emphasized the importance of actors reinventing themselves and staying adaptable in the ever-changing industry. "We express emotions. So it is extremely important to re-explore and reinvent yourself," Atre stated.

Atre credits the rise of OTT platforms with the changing landscape of content creation, noting that easy access to international content has pushed the industry to evolve and cater to the diverse tastes of Gen Z and millennial audiences. She also believes digital platforms provide actors with greater opportunities to showcase their talent to a global audience, offering more realistic and layered roles that foster creative growth. "Digital platforms give actors more opportunities to show their talent, not just in one country but across the world... Also, roles on OTT platforms are often more realistic and layered, which helps actors grow creatively," she explained.

Reflecting on her time on "Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain!", Atre appreciates the close bonds she formed with her castmates, who became like family over the years. She also acknowledges the challenges of consistently making people laugh, emphasizing that comedy requires precise timing, rhythm, and emotional honesty. "Comedy is not easy. It demands precise timing, rhythm, and emotional honesty. I give my 100 per cent to my craft, always," she said.

With a desire to explore new horizons, Shubhangi Atre has bid farewell to Angoori Bhabhi. However, the character will be seen one last time in the film adaptation "Bhabhiji Ghar Par Hain! – Fun on the Run". The movie, directed by Shashank Bali and set to release in February, offers Atre a sense of closure and a chance to honor the vision of the late writer Manoj Santoshi.

Looking ahead, Atre is excited about the possibilities that lie before her, ready to embrace new challenges and connect with audiences in fresh and innovative ways.