Some characters in Indian TV serials are so memorable that their character's name is remembered more than their real name. And when those characters are children — their appeal goes even deeper. A child actor who authentically portrays a difficult emotion — that scene stays in the hearts of viewers for decades. Let us recall some such child actors and find out where they are today.
Avika Gor — From Anandi to Roli, an Extraordinary Journey
With the role of little Anandi in 'Balika Vadhu' in 2008, Avika Gor made Indian television her own. A child bride's innocence, her confusion, her gradual growing up — Avika portrayed all of this so naturally that viewers forgot they were watching a scripted performance. Delivering such a nuanced performance at that age — when she was 10–11 years old — was extraordinary.
After 'Balika Vadhu', Avika played the role of Roli in 'Sasural Simar Ka' — a teen character. And then she stepped slightly back from acting to prioritise her personal life. Today Avika is active on social media, speaks openly about fitness, and is slowly returning to the screen. Her journey — from childhood stardom to finding an adult identity — is inspiring.
The Challenge of Growing Up on Screen
Child actors face a unique challenge — growing up on screen. When you are famous as a cute 8-year-old character, audience expectations remain the same when you are 15. Making the transition — from child star to teen actor to adult actor — very few manage successfully.
In Indian TV history there are many child actors who were iconic in their child roles — but as they grew up, suitable roles in the industry became fewer. Some changed direction — toward OTT, toward theatre, or toward completely different careers. And this is absolutely valid.
Natasha Gupta, Child Welfare Activist, Delhi"Protecting child actors is essential — emotionally, academically, and professionally. There are still inadequate safeguards in the industry. A child who is on set for 12 hours, their education, mental health, and normal childhood can all suffer."
Parth Samthaan — That Boy From Kaisi Yeh Yaariaan
The impact that Parth Samthaan made as a teen actor in 'Kaisi Yeh Yaariaan' was remarkable. This show on MTV created a new segment of young viewers. Parth's cool, brooding image created a craze among teenagers. This show was technically for teen actors — but it successfully navigated the child-to-adult transition.
Today Parth is in adult lead roles — in 'Kasautii Zindagii Kay 2' he played Anurag Basu — an iconic character. This transition — from teen star to full adult lead — is rare and also impressive. Parth's success story is a positive example for child and teen actors in Indian TV.
Siddharth Nigam — A Real Success Story
Siddharth Nigam's name must certainly come up in discussions of Indian TV's child actors. The impact he created with the role of young Ashoka in 'Chakravartin Ashoka Samrat' was extraordinary. A historical character, complex emotions, grand sets — this role would have been challenging even for an adult. Siddharth handled it with mastery.
Today Siddharth is 22–23 years old and actively working. He has done OTT projects, has a massive following on social media, and is active in the fitness world too. His example of successfully converting childhood stardom into an adult career is inspiring.
The Industry's Responsibility: Protecting Child Actors
When talking about child actors, a critical conversation must certainly happen — the industry's responsibility. TRAI and the Information & Broadcasting Ministry have guidelines that specify working hours, education requirements, and psychological wellbeing for child actors. But the implementation of these guidelines is inconsistent.
Some production houses genuinely care — on-set teachers, limited shooting hours, regular breaks. But in some cases attempts are made to fit children into adult schedules — which is harmful. The role of parents is crucial here — they must be advocates for their children's welfare, not just career managers.
Children Who Walked Away From the Camera
Some child actors have consciously chosen — not acting. And this choice is absolutely valid. Receiving fame in childhood is an extraordinary experience — but it comes with pressure, expectations, and scrutiny that can sometimes be overwhelming. Some former child actors pursued a normal education, built normal careers, and lived normal lives.
This outcome is also success. Success doesn't always mean continued stardom. A healthy, fulfilled adult life — in which the childhood acting experience contributed something valuable — this is also a positive outcome. Both the industry and audiences must accept that not every child actor needs to build an adult career.
Dr. Swati Mehta, Child Psychologist, Mumbai"The most important thing with child actors is — keeping their self-worth separate from acting success. If a child thinks 'I am only valuable when the camera is on me' — this is dangerous. Healthy identity = knowing yourself to be valuable outside of acting too."
