YRKKH actor Shruti Ulfat: "A mother’s dream is to pass on inspiration"

Shruti Ulfat, currently winning hearts as Vidya in Rajan Shahi’s popular show Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, opens up this Women’s Day about the women who shaped her life and the evolving portrayal of women on Indian television.

When asked about the women she looks up to, Shruti’s admiration shines through. “Well, obviously, I look up to my mother because she’s a beautiful homemaker and a wonderful friend to me. She’s the pillar of my strength. I wouldn’t have done anything without her. She’s always giving, selflessly serving, and looking after our family. I’m so fortunate and blessed to have her in my life,” Shruti shares warmly.

She hopes to carry forward the same legacy of love and strength. "But a mother’s dream is to inspire the way she’s been inspired. And I hope and I know my son later in life will look up to me with the same love, admiration, and gratitude that I feel for my own mom.” Shruti also draws inspiration from trailblazer Kiran Bedi. “When I was very young, I wanted to become a police inspector because of a show called Udaan, inspired by Kiran Bedi’s life. The way she stood tall in an era dominated by men and became a symbol of strength for every woman in the country really impacted me.”

On the evolving portrayal of women on screen, Shruti reflects thoughtfully. “Indian television often caters to the domestic side of society, which is why most protagonists are women. Through these stories, we show their journey from being confined by societal restrictions to becoming women of substance.” Citing examples from Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, she mentions, “We see characters like Maa sa (Anita Raj) who is a very independent and strong woman. Yet, she still holds traditional values, believing that daughters-in-law or daughters of the house should not work outside. She continues to carry these thoughts despite her strength and independence. Then another is Abhira, a strong woman raised by a single parent who stands up for what’s right. Then there’s my character, Vidya, an educated woman married into a traditional Rajasthani family. She believes in women’s freedom and independence but remains bound by the family’s expectations. Through these different perspectives, our shows highlight both the existing cultural norms and the change we aspire for.”

My son looks up to me. He’s proud of me, loves me, and sees the hard work and passion I pour into my profession.

- Shruti Ulfat

Having portrayed a wide array of roles, Shruti recalls a few that left an indelible impact on her. “One of my favorites was Simran from the comedy show I Love You in 1998, a vivacious and loving woman navigating the twists and turns of married life. Another memorable role was in Bhavar, where I played a character Kavita, a domestic violence survivor who fights for justice. That character’s journey of strength and resilience was incredibly inspiring. Over the span of my career in television and films, there have been numerous characters I’ve portrayed. Each one connects with me in some way because they often reflect aspects of my own experiences and emotions.”

Today, as she plays Vidya in Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, Shruti feels grateful. “It’s a beautiful and progressive show that balances culture and tradition with freedom and responsibility, and beauty. The show has been running for 16 years, and people still love it with the same passion. Working with Rajan has also been a beautiful journey. We started together on a show called 'Thoda Hai thode ki jarurat hai, then Dil Hai Ki Manta Nahi ' which was Rajan’s independent directorial venture. Now, after so many years, being part of 'Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai' and working with the Directors Kut Production, I feel blessed and happy to play Vidya, who is such a fantastic, performance-driven character. I’m giving my best and truly enjoying every moment of it.”