Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai actress Samridhii Shukla opens up about her journey in television

Rising television actor Samridhii Shukla, known for playing Abhira in Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, has quickly become one of the most recognisable faces on television. But her journey into the entertainment world did not begin on screen. It started behind a microphone, where she spent years building her foundation as a professional voice-over artist. She believes those early experiences shaped her into the disciplined and aware performer she is today.

From Voice Booths to Television Sets

Before entering television, Samridhii spent several years dubbing for major Indian productions. She says voice acting became her first learning ground. “Voice acting taught me control, expression, and how to convey emotion without being seen. That discipline still guides me today,” she shares.

Her work involved lending her voice to well-known children’s shows and dubbing for leading actresses. She recalls, “Dubbing for Alia Bhatt in Brahmastra and for Tripti Dimri in Animal was a huge responsibility. When you lend your voice to a big character, you carry their emotions on your shoulders.” These experiences played an important role in shaping her understanding of performance and emotion.

Her shift from the voice studio to acting came with her debut in Saavi Ki Savaari. While the experience felt new, she says it also felt like the natural next step. “Acting in front of the camera felt new, but also strangely familiar. I realised this is where I belong,” she reflects.

Abhira is close to my heart. Every day, I try to find something fresh in her. She’s flawed in all the right ways, and that’s what makes her real

- Samridhi Shukla

Finding Depth Through Abhira in YRKKH

Samridhii’s portrayal of Abhira in Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai brought her major recognition. The character’s mix of strength, sensitivity, and flaws has allowed her to explore a broad emotional range. “Abhira is close to my heart. Every day, I try to find something fresh in her. She’s flawed in all the right ways, and that’s what makes her real,” she says.

Playing Abhira has connected her with a large audience and helped her grow further as an artist. She credits the character for giving her the space to explore different emotions daily.

Stability, Growth, and the Television Space

Despite the industry's pace and competitiveness, Samridhii remains grounded. She says she doesn’t aim to do everything; instead, she chooses what aligns with her values. “Competition is a part of this industry. But I don’t want to do everything — I want to do what helps me grow,” she shares.

She also highlights what television has offered her. “Television gives me stability — not just fame. It has given me a home. The stability it provides is underrated. It lets you learn, evolve, and build real skill,” she says. For Samridhii, it is this consistency that allows her to keep evolving every day.