Reports of Shubhangi Atre’s exit from the popular sitcom Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain had been circulating for days, and the actress has now officially confirmed her departure. Shubhangi, who took over the role of Angoori Bhabhi in 2016 following Shilpa Shinde’s exit, said leaving the show feels like a “blessing in disguise” as she now wishes to explore new characters and fresh opportunities.
Speaking to Bombay Times, Shubhangi shared that she filmed her final episode last week and is leaving with immense gratitude. “I always promised Mrs Kohli that my journey would begin with aan, baan aur shaan, and that’s exactly how it ends. There is no point discussing the reasons for the replacement. As an artiste, I want to explore new characters and start looking for work again. I am in fighter mode now, focused on my daughter and my work,” she said. She admitted that saying goodbye after nearly a decade felt extremely emotional, almost like leaving home.
Reflecting on stepping into a role originally created by Shilpa Shinde, Shubhangi said that replacing someone is never easy. “When you build a character from scratch, it becomes an extension of you. But when the character already exists, you must retain its essence while adding your own flavour. I’m grateful viewers accepted me with so much love. In the end, I did my work with honesty and dedication,” she said.
Interestingly, this is not the first time Shubhangi played a role earlier portrayed by Shilpa; she had also replaced her in Chidiya Ghar as Koyal Narayan. Confirming that Shilpa is returning as Angoori Bhabhi, Shubhangi added warmly, “I told my mom that Shilpa left the show after a few months—it felt like she handed me a newborn baby. I raised it for ten years and now I’m returning it with love and values. I genuinely wish Shilpa and the entire team the very best.”
Shilpa Shinde had previously exited the show in 2016 amid a major controversy, alleging mental harassment, unpaid dues, and restrictive contracts. The production house later issued her a legal notice, accusing her of unprofessional behaviour.
