Can a Relationship Born Out of Duty Blossom Into True Love in an Aata Sata Marriage?

MUMBAI: Mumbai, 8th November 2024: That’s the question Jaane Anjaane Hum Mile, the upcoming primetime show on Zee TV, will encourage viewers to ask themselves. The story is anchored around the intriguing aata saata marriage custom still prevalent across parts of Gujarat, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. In this unique arrangement, a daughter from one family marries a son from another, while the groom’s sister weds the bride’s brother, creating strong family ties based on mutual obligation. This reciprocal bond makes the happiness and stability of both couples interdependent, forming a delicate balance that profoundly impacts both families. Premiering on 11th November, Jaane Anjaane Hum Mile, Zee TV's bold narrative explores the intricate dynamics of relationships that arise from such arrangements, offering an unconventional dive into the emotional stakes involved.

The show introduces two strong-willed protagonists— Reet and Raghav—where Reet makes the startling choice to marry not for love, but as a ‘guarantee’ for her brother’s happiness. Reet, portrayed by Ayushi Khurana, is a fiercely independent reporter from Gwalior, known for challenging societal norms and using her voice to question age-old customs. Raghav, played by Bharat Ahlawwat, is a temperamental, emotionally complex man with a successful construction business and an intense love for his sister Unnati. Circumstances force him to embrace the Aata Saata custom as a means to secure his sister Unnati’s future. In exchange for Unnati’s marriage to Reet’s brother Dhruv, Raghav demands Reet’s hand in marriage as a safeguard. Reet essentially becomes collateral, ensuring that if Unnati is mistreated in her new home, Reet would be held accountable in Raghav’s. The question at the heart of Jaane Anjaane Hum Mile is simple yet profound: Can a relationship born out of duty to family honour evolve into a true partnership based on love?

Mangesh Kulkarni, the Chief Channel Officer, Zee TV said, “In India, marriage is not just a union; it is a vibrant celebration of life through diverse traditions and cultural nuances that vary across regions and communities. There exists a natural curiosity among audiences to explore and understand the unique customs that shape this significant life event. With Jaane Anjaane Hum Mile, we present a narrative centred around the Aata Saata marriage custom that is still prevalent in parts of India. This unique arrangement adds emotional depth to our story, drawing audiences into a world where love and family honour intersect. Through the journey of Reet and Raghav, we’re inviting viewers to experience a powerful tale of how love can blossom in a marriage forged from obligation.”

Conceptualized by Sonnal A. Kakar and produced by Goldie Behl and Sonnal A. Kakar under Rose Audio Visuals Pvt. Ltd., the show delves into the collision of old-world traditions with the progressive values of today’s generation, setting up an intense emotional rollercoaster. Writer-producer Sonnal A. Kakar shares, “With Jaane Anjaane Hum Mile, we wanted to bring a story that not only sheds light on the Aata Saata custom but also on the individuals whose lives and choices are shaped by it. Reet and Raghav’s journey is one of transformation—a marriage that feels transactional yet has the potential to turn into a deep, emotional connection. This show is about the sparks that fly when two alphas come together in a relationship and how their intense dynamics shape their evolving bond.”

Producer Goldie Behl adds, “My longstanding partnership with Zee TV has been pivotal in shaping our storytelling approach. With Jaane Anjaane Hum Mile, we are excited to delve into a unique cultural insight that speaks to the interests of today’s viewers. This collaboration reflects our mutual commitment to creating engaging content that not only entertains but also resonates deeply with audiences. I’m confident that this show will not only strengthen our presence in the industry but also forge meaningful connections with viewers across various demographics." 

Ayushi Khurana, who brings Reet to life, shares her excitement, saying, “I have always loved playing strong characters, and Reet is one such young woman. She is bold, determined, and not afraid to question societal norms, which makes her both exciting and challenging to portray. Learning about the Aata Saata custom opened my eyes to different layers of family and cultural dynamics. I can’t wait for viewers to connect with Reet’s journey.”

Bharat Ahlawwat, who plays Raghav, says, “Jaane Anjaane Hum Mile goes beyond the conventions of a typical love story, highlighting the clash between tradition and individuality as Reet and Raghav navigate a marriage forged from obligation. Raghav is a complex character, and stepping into his shoes has been transformative. This role has given me something new to dive into, and I’m excited for audiences to watch how Raghav’s journey unfolds in a story filled with intense emotions and powerful relationships.”

At the show’s launch event in Mumbai, stand-up comedian Abijit Ganguly delighted attendees with his unique flair, diving into the quirks and truths of relationships and marriage. His comedic take on the various relationships people experience helped set the stage for the show, introducing the lead actors and their characters with humour and insight.

Can Reet, a woman who prides herself on standing up for women’s rights and questioning age-old norms, come to terms with a marriage that feels like a transaction? And can Raghav, who made the decision to marry as per the aata saata tradition because of his fierce love for his sister, reconcile with the reality of his incompatibility with Reet?

To find out, tune into Jaane Anjaane Hum Mile, starting 11th November at 09:30 pm, only on Zee TV