Samridhii Shukla has been phenomenal as Abhira in Star Plus and Rajan Shahi’s long-running show Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai. The recent emotional phase in the show has had viewers feel the pain of the main characters and react along with them.

In an exclusive conversation with IWMBuzz.com, Samridhii talks about her well-received chemistry with Rohit Purohit, their emotional connect to their characters and more.

Rohit is a very talented and professional actor. Working with him is always a give-and-take process.

Read on.

What is your emotional take on the present track of Armaan and Abhira meeting again, walking their paths alone, leading up to Maira’s truth?

For seven years, Abhira kept blaming herself for losing Pookie. She was on a constant search—visiting police stations, spending sleepless nights. Alongside that guilt, she also carried the pain of knowing Armaan might be living alone somewhere, suffering too. Now that she’s finally reunited with Pookie and learns that Armaan had lied about it, it’s a deeply emotional moment—one that’s hard to process or forgive. She didn’t expect that from Armaan, and that makes it even more heartbreaking.

There’s a history, a weight, a continuity to Abhira’s emotions that I must carry. If I don’t, the soul and emotional thread will be missing.

Viewers have been enthralled by the brilliant portrayals from both you and Rohit in the current storyline. Tell us about that.

It is truly a collaborative effort. Rohit is a very talented and professional actor. Working with him is always a give-and-take process. We discuss scenes extensively and brainstorm different approaches to emotions. Our directors and the entire team really help in setting the mood and the emotional tone. So whatever you see on screen is a result of collective input and hard work.

What does it take to carry the huge responsibility of playing Abhira day in and day out?

It is a huge responsibility. Abhira started as this carefree and ambitious girl, but over time, her journey has been filled with trauma—her mother’s death, an unwelcoming family, and now the truth about Pookie. As an actor, I can’t approach each scene like it’s new or isolated. There’s a history, a weight, a continuity to her emotions that I must carry. If I don’t, the soul and emotional thread will be missing.

How do you overcome inner battles or apprehensions as an actor? Have you encountered any here?

I wouldn’t say that I am always confident or know exactly what to do. I see myself as a director’s actor. I rely a lot on our directors, Rishi sir and Ram sir, who usually guide our scenes. They bring a perspective I might miss as an actor in the moment. Their feedback helps me see the scene more deeply and perform it better.

How would you personally describe the magic that you and Rohit create on screen as Abhira and Armaan?

I am honestly just glad that people feel that magic! We always try to give our best to each scene. Some days are emotionally intense, some are lighter—it depends on the moment we are portraying. But overall, we enjoy working together, and that shows on screen.

How much do success and recognition at work matter to you?

It matters. Every actor wants their work to be seen, understood, and appreciated. But for me, what matters equally is doing justice to the character I am playing. If that connects with the audience, then the recognition feels even more meaningful.

Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai has been a huge name in many actors’ careers. What is the show’s importance in your life and career?

It means a lot to me—personally and professionally. The show has a legacy, and being part of it is truly special. It challenges me as an actor, helps me grow, and has connected me to millions of people who relate to Abhira’s journey.

Your message to your fans will be…

Thank you for all the love and support. You have stayed with Abhira through every twist and turn. I hope you continue to relate to her journey, feel for her, and grow with her.

What can fans look forward to in the track now?

A lot of emotional confrontations, unexpected turns, and deeper relationships. The truth about Pookie has shifted many dynamics, and how each character navigates that will be both intense and surprising. Stay tuned!