The Journey of Hina Khan: How She Secured the Role of Akshara in Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai

Hina Khan, a talented actress in the Indian television industry, landed the pivotal role of Akshara in the long-running series Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai. This article delves into her journey, from the initial audition to her imprint on the show's enduring legacy.

From Friends' Nudge to On-Screen Pivotal Role

Hina Khan’s journey to becoming the beloved Akshara began with an unexpected push from her friends. According to an extensive interview with Indian Express, Hina auditioned for the role but did so with minimal preparation. Her friends at Delhi’s college heard about the audition opportunity through a distributed pamphlet and urged her to audition. Despite her initial hesitation, Hina complied and performed admirably, despite having only a day to learn and memorize a significant portion of the script.

As Hina recounted in her interview, 'The casting guys reached out to a lot of colleges in Delhi and distributed pamphlets. That’s how my friends got to know. They came home and told me about it. At the audition they made me sit for the entire day. It was a whole long paragraph that I had to learn and I was not prepared. Maybe they found out something or they just wanted me to stay. They gave me the entire day from 10 AM to learn those lines and deliver them in one shot. Finally around six in the evening I delivered those lines. And the next day I was in Bombay! So that’s the story of my first project.' The rigorous audition process ended with a call to Mumbai, where Hina would begin her television career. This experience marked the start of her journey as the iconic Akshara.

Akshara: A Character of Clarity and Modernity

The character of Akshara was a cornerstone of Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai. It was a blend of traditional values and modern sensibilities, which resonated deeply with Hina Khan. She was selected for her strong acting skills and screen presence, qualities that the show's producers and creators recognized. As a traditional yet modern woman, Akshara brought depth and nuance to the narrative, making her an integral part of the story's tapestry. Her ability to embody both these aspects was key to her success in the role.

Building a Platform: First Project and Beyond

Hina Khan’s debut in Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai was the launching pad for her career. Starting in 2009, Hina's portrayal of Akshara garnered significant acclaim and a large fan following. Her role continued to be a significant part of the show's long-standing success and popularity. Her journey in the role was a testament to her dedication and passion for acting, as she often gave 20 retakes for each scene over the span of 15 to 20 days, highlighting the meticulous nature of her preparation.

Interestingly, Hina obtained the role of Akshara without any established portfolio. In a highly competitive industry like Mumbai, it is particularly challenging to secure a role without prior experience. Her achievement in landing the role underscores her talent and potential. Reflecting on her experience, Hina mentioned, 'It is highly difficult in Mumbai to get a role without any portfolio. But I got the role of Akshara. It was not easy pissy for me to act that role.'

Lessons and Insights from Akshara

Working on Akshara for eight years has been a valuable journey for Hina Khan. She has come to learn many important lessons from the character and the series. 'I learned a lot from this character. And, 8 years working in a serial is still a long journey,' she remarked. Her dedication to the role and her growth as an actress speak volumes about her commitment to professional excellence.

Conclusion

Hina Khan’s journey to becoming the iconic Akshara in Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai is a testament to perseverance, talent, and hard work. Her story serves as a motivating example for aspiring actors, showcasing the importance of preparation, dedication, and the unique combination of traditional and modern values that made her a fan favorite.