In a shocking revelation that has taken the entertainment industry by surprise, Bhabhi Ji Ghar Par Hain actor Saanand Verma has alleged that veteran Bollywood actor Gulshan Grover slapped him aggressively during the shooting of a film years ago. The incident, which Verma says left him shaken and humiliated, resurfaced during an interview where he opened up about some of the most difficult moments of his career.
Known for his comedic brilliance and popular portrayal of the quirky character Anokhelal Saxena in the hit sitcom, Saanand Verma has built a reputation for being cheerful, hardworking, and dedicated. However, his journey, as he revealed, has also seen moments of trauma—one of the most disturbing being a physical confrontation with the “Bad Man” of Bollywood, Gulshan Grover.
A Scene That Turned Violent
According to Saanand, the incident took place early in his acting career when he had been cast in a film featuring several senior actors. One particular scene required an aggressive interaction, and while rehearsals went smoothly, the actual take took a harsh and unexpected turn.
Saanand claims that Gulshan Grover struck him with far more force than required for the shot—so hard, in fact, that he momentarily lost balance and felt stunned. What was supposed to be a controlled slap for the camera allegedly became an aggressive physical blow.
Recalling the moment, he said:
“He slapped me so hard that I felt like slitting his throat. For a moment, I couldn’t understand what was happening. It was humiliating.”
The actor further explained that he had agreed to a realistic portrayal but did not anticipate the level of aggression he says he endured.
Saanand Verma Says He Controlled His Anger
Despite feeling deeply insulted, Verma shared that he did not react violently or unprofessionally on set. Instead, he walked away, calmed himself down, and returned to complete the shoot.
According to him, losing his temper or retaliating could have ended his career at a time when he was still struggling to gain visibility in the industry. He said:
“If I had reacted in anger, if I had done what I felt in that moment, I would have been thrown out of the industry. I controlled myself because I had dreams.”
The actor stressed how vulnerable newcomers can be on sets, especially when working with established figures.
The Power Imbalance on Sets
Saanand Verma pointed out that situations like his are not isolated, and many newcomers often face harsh treatment from established actors, directors, or crew members. The power imbalance, he said, makes it difficult for newcomers to defend themselves or speak out, fearing that they may be labelled “unprofessional” or “difficult to work with.”
He also noted that his silence at the time was not out of fear but out of professional caution.
Why Saanand Spoke Up Now
When asked why he chose to reveal this incident now, Verma explained that he wanted aspiring actors to know the realities of the entertainment world—the good, the bad, and the difficult. He expressed that while his own journey eventually found success, it came with moments of emotional turmoil that he feels should be acknowledged.
He said:
“People see success, awards, and popularity. They don’t see the humiliation we go through, the insults, the helplessness.”
Verma clarified that he isn’t speaking out to defame anyone, but to shed light on the treatment many actors receive while chasing their dreams.
No Response from Gulshan Grover Yet
As of now, veteran actor Gulshan Grover has not responded publicly to the allegations. Grover, who has played numerous villain roles and is respected for his work, has often spoken about professionalism on set. However, the resurfaced accusation has sparked conversations on social media about on-set behavior in Bollywood’s earlier decades.
Fans and industry insiders are now waiting to hear Grover’s side of the incident or any clarification he may offer.
Saanand Verma: From Struggle to Stardom
Despite the troubling memories, Saanand Verma has carved a successful space for himself. His performance in Bhabhi Ji Ghar Par Hain brought him nationwide recognition. Over the years, he has also appeared in web series, films, and commercials.
He attributes his success to resilience and determination—qualities that helped him survive the difficult early phase of his career.
A Conversation That Bollywood Must Have
Saanand Verma’s revelation has reignited a discussion surrounding the use of violence in scenes, the treatment of junior actors, and the importance of safe and respectful working environments.
While Bollywood has evolved significantly, stories like this highlight the need for:
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Stricter on-set guidelines
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Consent-based action choreography
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Better support for newcomers
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A professional code of conduct for senior actors
The industry today is far more conscious of safety protocols, but past experiences continue to surface, reminding everyone of the importance of creating a work culture rooted in respect.
