MUMBAI: Shruti Rawat, who plays Manisha Poddar in Rajan Shahi’s Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, shares her journey, love for the craft, and why television remains a comfort for audiences.
"Sometimes, I look back at the initial episodes of my career, and I love them, but it’s also embarrassing. That growth is because of the amazing directors and artists I have worked with. I was always eager to learn, always watching the monitor, trying to improve. Over time, this craft has shaped me into a more confident person. Acting is addictive—it’s a never-ending process where you want to make your characters more real with each role."
"Television has evolved a lot since I started in 2008. The quality of storytelling, camera work, and lighting have all improved. Social media has also influenced TV, making storylines more progressive. TV remains the go-to comfort for audiences because it builds up stories over time, creating an emotional connection that keeps viewers engaged."
"Rajan Sir and his team are some of the most professional people I have ever worked with in Indian television. Every actor dreams of working with them. They value and pamper their artists, giving importance to even the smallest roles. That trust and loyalty make us want to work with them more. The work culture here is incredible."
"Having good chemistry with a co-actor comes naturally when you are professional. Even if we are not best friends offscreen, we know our job is to make it look real. As long as there is mutual respect, the final product should do justice to the story. Our team is like Team India—supportive and committed to making every scene better."
"I wake up excited to go to work every day because acting drives me. Playing Manisha Poddar is a high in itself. The high drama and daily twists give me an adrenaline rush. In two years, I have never been late to set, not even by five minutes—that’s how much I love what I do!"
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