Lifestyle
oi-Swastika Sruti
Fathers play a special role in shaping our lives. They guide us through challenges, support our dreams and often make silent sacrifices for the happiness of their children. As Father’s Day 2026 approaches, it is the perfect time to celebrate some memorable father figures who have touched audiences through films and web series available on OTT platforms.
OTT platforms feature memorable father figures like Kunal Kemmu in ‘Single Papa’, Pankaj Tripathi in ‘Gunjan Saxena’, Irrfan Khan in ‘Angrezi Medium’, and Jameel Khan in ‘Gullak’, reflecting diverse parenting styles and fatherly love.
From protective fathers who stand by their children through every struggle to single dads who redefine parenting, these characters have become fan favourites because of their love, dedication and emotional depth.
Kunal Kemmu in Single Papa: A Journey of Unexpected Fatherhood
One of the most talked-about father characters in recent times is Gaurav Gehlot, played by Kunal Kemmu in Single Papa.
The story follows a carefree and somewhat immature man whose life changes completely after he decides to adopt and raise an abandoned child on his own. What makes the character special is his gradual transformation from someone avoiding responsibility to a loving and committed father.
The emotional journey of learning parenting lessons and putting a child’s needs before his own has resonated strongly with viewers, making Gaurav one of the most relatable father figures on OTT.
Pankaj Tripathi in Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl: A Father Who Believes in Dreams
In Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl, Pankaj Tripathi delivers a memorable performance as Lieutenant Colonel Anup Kumar Saxena.
Unlike many traditional father figures, his character encourages his daughter to chase her ambitions without fear. He supports Gunjan’s dream of becoming a pilot at a time when women faced significant barriers in the profession.
His faith in his daughter and his refusal to let societal stereotypes limit her future made him one of the most admired fathers in modern Indian cinema.
Jameel Khan in Gullak: The Everyday Indian Father
Few father characters feel as real as Santosh Mishra from Gullak, portrayed by Jameel Khan.
As the head of a middle-class family, Santosh Mishra deals with financial pressures, family responsibilities and everyday struggles. Yet he always manages to guide his children with wisdom, humour and affection.
His realistic parenting style and genuine concern for his family have made him one of the most loved television fathers among audiences of all ages.
Irrfan Khan in Angrezi Medium: A Father’s Love Knows No Limits
When discussing unforgettable fathers on screen, it is impossible to ignore Irrfan Khan in Angrezi Medium.
Playing Champak Bansal, Irrfan portrays a single father who is willing to do anything to fulfil his daughter’s dream of studying abroad. Despite financial difficulties and personal sacrifices, he never stops supporting her aspirations.
The character beautifully captures the emotional bond between a father and daughter, leaving audiences both smiling and emotional.
Raghubir Yadav in Panchayat: Tough Outside, Soft at Heart
Raghubir Yadav brought warmth and authenticity to the character of Brij Bhushan Dubey, popularly known as Pradhan Ji, in Panchayat.
Although he often appears strict and authoritative, his affection for his daughter Rinki is evident throughout the series. His quiet support, concern and occasional humorous moments reveal the softer side of a devoted father.
Fans have particularly appreciated how naturally the character balances family responsibilities with village leadership.
Abhishek Bachchan in Be Happy: A Father Chasing His Daughter’s Dream
In Be Happy, Abhishek Bachchan portrays a single father who becomes his daughter’s biggest supporter.
The story revolves around his efforts to help her participate in a national dance competition. As challenges arise, he remains determined to stand by her side and help her achieve her goals.
His dedication, emotional strength and unconditional support make him one of the most inspiring father figures in recent OTT content.
Celebrating Fathers Through Stories
These characters remind us that fatherhood is not only about providing for a family but also about offering emotional support, encouragement and unconditional love.
Whether it is a strict middle-class father, a supportive mentor, or a single parent overcoming challenges, each of these characters reflects a different aspect of fatherhood that resonates with audiences.
This Father’s Day, revisiting these heartwarming stories can be a wonderful way to celebrate the fathers and father figures who make a lasting difference in our lives.
