10th November 2023, Mumbai: The departure of Harshad Chopda and Pranali Rathod from Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai left fans disheartened, particularly those who cherished the on-screen chemistry of Abhimanyu and Akshara. However, as one door closes, another opens, and the show has introduced Samridhii Shukla and Shehzada Dhami as Abhira and Armaan. The audience has welcomed the new storyline with open arms, appreciating the simplicity and positivity embodied by Abhira.
Abhira and Akshara: A Beautiful On-screen Bond
One of the highlights of the revamped narrative is the heartwarming relationship between Abhira and her mother, Akshara. Despite the departure of Pranali Rathod, the character of Akshara remains an integral part of the story. Priti Amin has stepped into the shoes of Akshara post the leap, and her portrayal has been met with acclaim. The on-screen chemistry between Abhira and Akshara is a delightful spectacle, portraying a close bond that resonates well with the audience.
The Transition: Priti Amin Takes Over as Akshara
The transition from Pranali Rathod to Priti Amin as Akshara was a sudden shift, as revealed by Priti herself. In an interview with IWMBuzz, she disclosed that the decision to cast her happened overnight. Unlike being given specific instructions to mimic Pranali Rathod’s portrayal, Priti shared that the creative team focused on explaining the essence of the character and what they expected from her. The overnight nature of the transition added to the challenge, but Priti embraced it with enthusiasm.
Preparing for the Role: Drawing Inspiration from Past Episodes
With little time to prepare for such a significant role, Priti Amin turned to the show’s archives. She watched several episodes featuring the earlier Akshara to grasp the character dynamics. However, she emphasized that her performance was not an imitation of Pranali Rathod’s interpretation. The creative team provided guidance on nuances and reactions while allowing Priti the creative freedom to infuse her style into the character.
Behind the Scenes: Priti Amin’s Collaboration with the Creative Team
In the intricate process of stepping into the shoes of Akshara, Priti Amin credited the creative team for their guidance. While she acknowledged seeing Pranali as Akshara, there was no attempt to replicate her performance. The collaborative effort with the creative team involved understanding the character and molding it to fit Priti’s unique portrayal. It highlights the importance of synergy between actors and the creative minds shaping the storyline.
A Fresh Dynamic: Priti Amin and Samridhii Shukla’s On-set Friendship
Beyond the on-screen dynamics, Priti Amin shed light on her off-screen bond with Samridhii Shukla, who plays Abhira. Shooting initially with only each other, they developed an instant friendship. Priti revealed that the camaraderie between Akshara and Abhira translates into a genuine friendship behind the scenes. This off-screen connection contributes to the authenticity of their on-screen portrayal, adding depth to the characters and storyline.
Embracing Change and Creating New Narratives
As Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai undergoes significant cast changes, the seamless transition from Pranali Rathod to Priti Amin as Akshara showcases the adaptability of the show’s creative team and actors. The fresh dynamics between Abhira and Akshara, both on and off-screen, promise a renewed and engaging chapter for the audience, proving that change can bring forth exciting and heartening narratives.
-by Kashvi Gala