It’s been 16 years since Pavitra Rishta first arrived on television screens, and for fans, it still feels like yesterday. The daily soap wasn’t just another drama, it became a household emotion, bringing characters like Archana and Manav into the hearts of millions. Led by Sushant Singh Rajput and Ankita Lokhande, the show quickly turned into a massive success, earning a special place in Indian television history.
On June 1, Pavitra Rishta completed its 16-year milestone. Marking this sentimental occasion, Ankita Lokhande planned something personal and heartfelt. She decided to relive the memories and reconnect with those who made the show so special. In her latest vlog, Ankita transformed herself back into Archana. Dressed in the character’s signature look, she wandered through the city, revisiting the spirit of the old days.
Later, Ankita invited veteran actress Usha Nadkarni to her home. Nadkarni, known for playing Savita Deshmukh, Manav’s strict yet loving mother in the serial, was not just a co-star but someone who played a crucial role in shaping Ankita’s acting journey. Joining them for the evening were Ankita’s husband, Vicky Jain, and her mother. The gathering turned into a nostalgic reunion filled with old stories and cherished memories.
As conversations flowed, Ankita and Usha fondly recalled their initial days on the set of Pavitra Rishta. Interestingly, Ankita admitted that during the early days, she and Usha didn’t bond very well. But as time passed, their connection grew stronger through shared scenes and emotional performances. Both actresses laughed while remembering some of their most unforgettable scenes together.
The evening took a tender turn when Ankita spoke about Sushant Singh Rajput. She reflected on how, as a newcomer, facing veteran actors in intense scenes would often make her nervous. Ankita remembered, “Sushant itna achha actor tha. Woh mujhe bohot help karta tha. In logon ke saamne jab main jaati thi na, mujhe dar lagne lagta tha ki main kaise itne bade-bade scenes karun. Toh woh mujhe sikhata tha, ‘aise bol’.”
The conversation also highlighted Usha Nadkarni’s role in mentoring Ankita. The senior actress often emphasized natural, honest acting over dramatic exaggeration. Ankita expressed her gratitude for those lessons, admitting that Usha unknowingly shaped much of her craft.
The two actors also spoke about the show’s unprecedented popularity. They marveled at how Pavitra Rishta became a part of daily conversations in countless homes, with characters and their struggles feeling deeply personal to audiences. From emotional mother-son confrontations to delicate romantic moments between Archana and Manav, every scene carried a unique magic that resonated with viewers.
Originally airing from June 1, 2009, to October 25, 2014, Pavitra Rishta remains one of Indian television’s most beloved shows. The recent get-together wasn’t just a simple reunion; it was a beautiful reminder of the friendships, lessons, and memories that outlive even the most iconic scripts.
