Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai Cast: The Stars Behind India’s Longest-Running TV Saga

The Original Power Couple: Naitik & Akshara

The show began with the timeless love story of Naitik Singhania (Karan Mehra) and Akshara Singhania (Hina Khan). Their chemistry as the ideal Indian married couple set the foundation for the show’s success.

• Hina Khan became a sensation overnight, earning the title of “TV’s Sweetheart.” Her portrayal of Akshara—a strong yet compassionate daughter-in-law—made her a role model. Post-YRKKH, Hina transitioned to reality shows (Bigg Boss, Khatron Ke Khiladi) and even Bollywood.
• Karan Mehra brought warmth and maturity to Naitik. His calm demeanor balanced Akshara’s fiery spirit, making them the ultimate #CoupleGoals. Though he left the show in 2016, fans still reminisce about their golden era.

Fun Fact: Hina Khan’s exit in 2016 left fans heartbroken, but it paved the way for the show’s bold leap into a new generation!

The Era of Kartik & Naira: A Fan-Favorite Duo

Enter Mohsin Khan and Shivangi Joshi as Kartik Goenka and Naira Singhania, the second-generation leads. Their on-screen romance became a cultural phenomenon, dominating memes, fan pages, and trending lists.

• Mohsin Khan’s Kartik was the brooding, devoted husband with a heart of gold. His intense acting and striking looks earned him the nickname “TV’s Chocolate Boy.”
• Shivangi Joshi’s Naira evolved from a spirited girl to a resilient mother and businesswoman. Her emotional scenes, especially during the Kairav track, left viewers in tears.

Together, their #Kaira magic ruled for over five years, making them one of TV’s most beloved pairs. When Shivangi bid farewell in 2021, fans flooded social media with tributes.

Did You Know? Mohsin and Shivangi’s off-screen friendship fueled their chemistry, often leading to playful BTS moments that fans adored.

The New Generation: Abhimanyu & Akshara’s Turbulent Love

In 2021, the show took another leap, introducing Abhimanyu Birla (Harshad Chopda) and Akshara Goenka (Pranali Rathod). This fresh pairing brought a modern twist with complex relationships and gripping drama.

• Harshad Chopda, known for Bepannah and Tere Liye, brought depth to Abhimanyu—a brooding doctor with a traumatic past. His smoldering intensity and vulnerability make him a standout.
• Pranali Rathod’s Akshara is a fierce, independent musician battling family pressures. Her expressive eyes and natural acting have won her a massive fanbase.

Their slow-burn romance, termed #AbhiRa, keeps viewers glued despite the rollercoaster of misunderstandings and separations.

Behind the Scenes: Harshad’s dedication to his role includes learning medical jargon, while Pranali practices piano to ace her musician avatar!

The Pillars of the Family: Supporting Cast Gems

YRKKH’s brilliance lies in its ensemble cast, who add layers to the storytelling:

• Swati Chitnis as Suhasi Goenka (Dadi): Her witty one-liners and unconditional love for Akshara make her a fan favorite.
• Amardeep Jha as Kavya Goenka (Kairav’s grandmother): Her strict yet loving persona embodies traditional Indian values.
• Niharika Chouksey as Muskan (Akshara’s best friend): Her comic timing and loyalty light up the screen.
• Mayank Arora as Kairav Goenka: The child actor’s adorable bond with Shivangi’s Naira melted hearts.

Why Does the Cast Shine So Bright?

1. Relatability: The actors portray everyday struggles—parenting, marital conflicts, career pressures—with authenticity.
2. Evolution: Characters grow over time, mirroring real life. From Akshara’s journey as a daughter to a mother, each phase feels organic.
3. Chemistry: Whether it’s romance, sibling bonds, or generational clashes, the cast’s synergy feels genuine.

What’s Next for the Cast?

While Harshad and Pranali steer the current track, rumors swirl about new additions to the Birla family. Meanwhile, alumni like Hina Khan and Shivangi Joshi continue to shine in web series and films.