Anant V Joshi Takes on Annu Bhaiya: A Journey from Doubt to Acceptance in Gullak Season 5

Anant V Joshi's journey in taking over the role of Annu Bhaiya in Gullak Season 5 has been filled with challenges and triumphs. Initially met with skepticism from fans due to the casting change, Joshi faced significant public scrutiny. However, following the season's release on SonyLIV, audience reception shifted dramatically, leading to a wave of support that validated his portrayal. The series, which captures the essence of middle-class life through the Mishra family's experiences, continues to resonate with viewers, marking a notable chapter in its narrative. Explore how Joshi navigated this transition and the impact it had on his career.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 5, 2026, 22:54 IST

Stepping into a Beloved Role

Taking on a well-loved character in a popular series is no small feat, and Anant V Joshi recently opened up about the emotional journey of stepping into the shoes of Annu Bhaiya for the fifth season of the acclaimed web series Gullak. His casting, which replaced Vaibhav Raj Gupta, triggered immediate reactions from the show's passionate fanbase, leading to a phase of uncertainty for Joshi.

The series, which explores the everyday lives of the Mishra family, has built a strong following since it first aired. The release of the fifth season's trailer highlighted the casting change, prompting a wave of criticism that Joshi found challenging to handle. He expressed that the audience's deep connection to the original portrayal made it difficult for him to be accepted in the role.

Facing Public Criticism and Evolving Reception

Navigating Public Scrutiny and Audience Reception

In a recent discussion, Joshi revealed that the backlash following the trailer's launch led him to question his choice to join the series. He shared that the pressure extended beyond just delivering a good performance; it involved taking over a character that had been so well established by his predecessor. The actor recognized that the show's extensive fanbase intensified the scrutiny, leaving him uncertain about whether he had made the right decision.

However, the narrative surrounding his performance shifted dramatically once the entire season premiered on SonyLIV. Joshi described the transition from initial criticism to a warm reception as a gratifying experience. He mentioned that having mentally prepared for negative feedback made the eventual wave of support from viewers even more meaningful. This change in audience sentiment validated his efforts to infuse his own experiences into the character of Annu Bhaiya.

The Enduring Appeal of the Mishra Family

The Legacy of the Mishra Family

Conceived by Shreyansh Pandey and produced by The Viral Fever, Gullak has established itself as a cornerstone of Indian digital entertainment, thanks to its relatable, slice-of-life storytelling. The series revolves around the daily experiences of parents Santosh and Shanti Mishra, played by Jameel Khan and Geetanjali Kulkarni, along with their sons, Annu and Aman, portrayed by Joshi and Harsh Mayar, respectively. The show's success is largely due to its ability to authentically depict the intricacies of middle-class family life with humor. Since its debut on June 5, 2026, the fifth season has sparked considerable conversation among devoted fans, marking a significant chapter in the series' ongoing journey.