Tumm Se Tumm Tak's Niharika Chouksey reveals 'public scrutiny' feels too much on some days: 'Learned that..'

With Tumm Se Tumm Tak winning hearts on the small screen, actress Niharika Chouksey has found herself in the spotlight. While recognition brings joy, Niharika believes fame is more layered than it appears. In an exclusive conversation, she opens up about navigating attention, dealing with self-doubt, and the lessons she continues to learn along the way.

Speaking about the constant public gaze, Niharika said, “Fame often comes with its own set of pressures. I’ve realized the only way to handle it is by staying grounded. I try to draw a line between my personal life and my professional image. That balance keeps me at peace even when the spotlight feels overwhelming.”

On whether fame can feel addictive, she explained, “For me, it’s not an addiction, it’s a responsibility. The love and support from people motivates me, but I don’t chase fame for its own sake. The moment you start treating it like an obsession, you risk losing yourself. For me, it’s about growth and staying connected to the audience.”

For me, it’s not an addiction, it’s a responsibility. The love and support from people motivates me, but I don’t chase fame for its own sake. The moment you start treating it like an obsession, you risk losing yourself. For me, it’s about growth and staying connected to the audience.

- Niharika Chouksey

Niharika also addressed the insecurities and expectations that come with being in the public eye. “There are days when the scrutiny feels too much. But I’ve learned that I don’t have to be perfect—I just need to be authentic. Being surrounded by people who know the real me makes that journey easier,” she shared.

Like most artists, she admits she too has faced moments of doubt. “Yes, I’ve questioned myself—whether I’m good enough or whether I belong here. But those doubts push me to work harder. I go back to the reason I chose acting in the first place: my passion.”

Reacting to Shah Rukh Khan’s famous remark that he would feel sad if one day no one recognized him, Niharika said she relates to it. “I completely resonate with that thought. The love of fans is irreplaceable. Their appreciation fuels us in ways nothing else can. If one day that recognition disappeared, it would leave a big void.”

Reflecting on her journey so far, she concluded, “The most valuable lesson fame has taught me is humility. Success comes and goes, but how you treat people and how you make them feel is what truly lasts.”