Cinema VinesRajesh Kumar, who captured audiences as Rosesh Sarabhai in the early‑2000s hit sitcom Sarabhai vs Sarabhai, has recently opened up about a turbulent chapter in his life that saw him abandon acting for a stint in farming. At 42, the actor stepped away from the limelight to pursue agriculture, a decision that ultimately cost him his financial stability and forced him to sell his car to cover mounting debts.
In a candid interview with SCREEN, Kumar reflected on the hardships he endured during those five years away from television. He recalled the relentless pressure from credit‑card recovery agents, who would call the building’s watchman’s cabin and berate him for unpaid balances. “I had to sell my car, an Eco Car, and even hand it over to farmers in Nashik because I couldn’t keep up with the payments,” he said. Despite the humiliation and financial ruin, Kumar insisted he did not succumb to depression or anxiety, instead using the experience as a catalyst for personal growth.
After returning to acting in 2022, Kumar described the period as transformative. “Those five years changed me as a human being. I became more real, more grounded,” he explained. He added that the ordeal taught him the depths of suffering and the pain that accompanies having nothing left, a lesson he considers “incredibly beautiful.”
Since his comeback, Kumar has diversified his portfolio, taking on roles in web series such as Yeh Meri Family, Rana Naidu, and Freedom at Midnight, as well as supporting parts in films like Saiyaara, Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai, and Nishaanchi. His willingness to move beyond the iconic Rosesh Sarabhai character has earned him praise from audiences and critics alike.
Vibha Maru, an Assistant Editor with Hindustan Times Entertainment, has covered Kumar’s journey, noting his decade‑long experience in digital and print media covering Bollywood, Hollywood, and web shows. Maru’s reporting highlights Kumar’s resilience and his commitment to sharing his story, hoping it will inspire others facing similar challenges.
