Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai 2025 – Full Biography of Characters, Story & Behind the Scenes

Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai — Full Overview, History & Impact

A long-running Hindi family drama that has captivated audiences since 2009

Introduction

Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai (often abbreviated as YRKKH) is one of the most enduring and beloved Hindi television serials in India. It first premiered on **12 January 2009** on the Star Plus channel. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0} The show is produced by **Rajan Shahi** under the banner **Director’s Kut Productions**. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1} Over the years, YRKKH has become associated with themes of family, tradition versus modernity, love, interpersonal relationships, generational conflicts, and evolving social values.

Premise & Setup

The core of the show’s early plot revolves around **Akshara Maheshwari** and **Naitik Singhania**—two individuals from traditional families who enter into an arranged marriage. Despite the initial transactional or formal nature of the marriage, their journey evolves into a deeper bond as they face trials and tribulations together. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Over time, the narrative expands beyond just their relationship. The show introduces multiple generations, new families, and shifting dynamics, thus turning into a multi-generational saga. It blends romance, conflict, social issues, familial loyalties, and daily life crises into a continuous saga that updates with the times.

Production & Broadcasting

Filming Locations & Shifts

Although set largely in Udaipur, Rajasthan, many sequences are filmed in **Film City, Goregaon (Mumbai)**. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3} Over the years, the show has shot special episodes in various cities and exotic locations. For instance:

• Bangkok, Cape Town, Hong Kong, Switzerland, and Greece for special episodes. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
• Scenes in Rishikesh, episodes in Bikaner for wedding sequences, and in Jaipur and Mahabaleshwar. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, production was halted in March. Later, the team shifted temporarily to **Silvassa** until Mumbai resumed operations. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

Broadcast & Longevity

The show began in January 2009 and has run continuously (with minimal breaks) for over a decade. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7} It has adapted to changing audience preferences by introducing new tracks, leaps in time, cast changes, and evolving themes. During the COVID-19 outbreak in India, the broadcast was halted in March 2020 until it resumed in mid-2020. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8} As of recent years, it continues to air daily on Star Plus and is among the network’s flagship shows. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}

Evolution Through Generations & Key Phases

One of the hallmarks of **Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai** is how it reinvents itself across generational shifts. The show is often segmented into “generations” or time leaps, where the narrative focus shifts to younger characters while still retaining connections to earlier characters.

First Generation: Akshara & Naitik

The original storyline centered on **Akshara Maheshwari** (Hina Khan) and **Naitik Singhania** (Karan Mehra). Their marital journey, struggles with family relationships, traditions, conflicts, and evolving love formed the heart of the show for many years. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10} During this era, the show gained immense popularity and loyal fan following.

Second Generation: Naira & Kartik / Subsequent Leads

After the original leads aged or phased out, the story focus gradually shifted to their children (especially **Naira Singhania**). Her journey with **Kartik Goenka** and how the next generation navigates relationships became important arcs. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11} Naira’s character (portrayed by Shivangi Joshi) became extremely popular, with her style and persona influencing contemporary television trends. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}

Third & Fourth Generation: New Leads, Leaps, and Current Track

As time progressed, the show continued to introduce new leads and track shifts. For instance:

• Characters like **Akshara (next generation)**, **Abhimanyu**, **Abhira**, **Armaan**, and others became central to the ongoing plot. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
• Recent storyline includes a leap of 6 or 7 years, separation and reunion of key couples (Armaan & Abhira), and conflicts involving their child **Pookie**, as per news updates. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}

Main Characters & Cast Overview

Over its long run, YRKKH has introduced many characters. Here are some of the most pivotal ones:

Akshara Maheshwari Singhania

The original female lead played by **Hina Khan**. Akshara is a traditional yet strong-willed woman. She is daughter of Rajshri and Vishambharnath Maheshwari, and wife of Naitik. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15} Her character represents the balancing act between familial duties and her own aspirations. Even after leaps and generational transitions, the legacy of Akshara remains impactful.

Naitik Singhania

Originally played by **Karan Mehra**, Naitik is Akshara’s husband. He comes from a more modern background but embraces tradition through his marriage. Over time, his relationship with Akshara becomes a core emotional anchor for early seasons. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16} Later, his role is reduced as newer characters take center stage.

Naira Singhania Goenka

Naira is the daughter of Akshara and Naitik and becomes a central lead in later seasons. Portrayed by **Shivangi Joshi**, her character arcs include marriage, motherhood, conflict, trauma, and redemption. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17} She is often credited with bringing fresh appeal to the show in its second phase. Her boldness combined with emotional depth made her a favorite among viewers.

Other Key Characters

• Kartik Goenka – One of Naira’s leading counterparts in romantic arcs. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}
• Abhira Sharma – More recent lead in the latest generation, involving new conflicts and relationships. :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}
• Armaan – Partner of Abhira in recent storyline, with a complex trajectory. :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}
• Other supporting and recurring characters include **Rajshri Maheshwari**, **Vishambharnath**, **Swarna Goenka**, **Naksh**, **Kuhu**, etc. :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}

Plot Highlights & Memorable Arcs

Over its many years, YRKKH has had several standout arcs and turning points. Below are some key ones:

Arranged Marriage to Love Story

The early arc of Akshara and Naitik transitioning from a formal, sometimes reluctant marriage into one of deep companionship and emotional bonding was widely appreciated.

Family Conflicts & Generational Tensions

Traditional family pressures, misunderstandings, secrets, and conflicts among in-laws have been recurring sources of drama. The show often explores how values clash between the older and younger generation.

Time Leaps & Reintroduction of New Leads

To keep the narrative fresh, the show takes time leaps. These leaps allow new characters (children, grandchildren) to grow up, enabling fresh romantic plots and conflicts, while still tethered to the older generation’s legacy.

Separation, Reunion, and Redemption Themes

Many arcs test the strength of relationships—partners separate (sometimes due to misunderstandings or tragedies), and years later reunite. Characters go through redemption, realization, and reconciliation arcs—which are integral to the emotional pull of the serial.

Social & Realistic Issues

The show has also touched upon real-life issues: infertility, misunderstandings due to communication, mental health, extramarital temptations, identity crises, and generational value shifts. These elements often keep the show grounded and relatable.

Achievements, Awards & Recognitions

Over its long run, YRKKH has garnered critical acclaim, wide viewership, and multiple awards. Some of the key points:

• Consistent high TRP ratings over many years, making it one of Star Plus’s flagship shows. :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}
• Featured special episodes, colorful weddings, destination shoots, and festival episodes that became special events in TV programming. :contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}
• Impact on popular culture — characters like Naira gained fan following, and bridal fashion trends from the show influenced bridal styles outside TV. (E.g. “Naira style”) :contentReference[oaicite:24]{index=24}
• Continuing relevance — even after more than a decade, the show remains active and adapts based on audience sensibilities. :contentReference[oaicite:25]{index=25}

Criticism, Challenges & Controversies

Despite its successes, the show has faced challenges and criticisms:

• Cast Changes & Viewer Attachment: Over time, original actors move out, and new ones replace them. Some viewers resist the changes, feeling nostalgic for earlier leads.
• Time Leaps & Repetitiveness: Critics sometimes argue that repeated leaps make the story predictable or overly dramatic.
• Depiction of Family Conflicts: Some family conflicts are dramatized heavily, which may seem exaggerated rather than realistic.
• Balancing Tradition vs Modernity: The show walks a tightrope between showcasing tradition and entertaining modern audiences; sometimes it comes under fire for being overly conservative or regressive in certain arcs.

Recent Developments & Current Storyline

In the latest episodes (2024–2025), **Armaan** and **Abhira** are central leads. Their relationship has had ups and downs, and the plot includes a time leap. :contentReference[oaicite:26]{index=26} The leap has shown Armaan living in Mount Abu with their daughter **Pookie**, while Abhira continues to search for them. :contentReference[oaicite:27]{index=27} Abhira suspects that **Geetanjali** and **Maira** may be influencing Armaan’s life in her absence—a new conflict element. :contentReference[oaicite:28]{index=28} The evolving storyline keeps viewers hooked as the dynamics shift between separation, misunderstandings, reunion, and emotional turmoil. :contentReference[oaicite:29]{index=29}

Impact on Culture & Legacy

Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai is more than a TV serial; it has become part of many viewers’ daily lives. Its long run gives it a legacy status in Indian television.

The show’s portrayal of family values, tradition, and changes over generations resonates with Indian middle-class audiences who see reflections of their own lives. It also adapts to modern sensibilities—bringing in youth arcs, conflicts around modern relationships, and bridging old traditions with new ideas.

The popularity of characters (especially leads like Naira) has extended beyond TV into social media fandoms, style trends, and fan engagement.

Why the Show Works: Secret to Its Longevity

Several factors combine to give **Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai** enduring appeal:

• Emotional Core: Love, family, sacrifice, misunderstandings—the emotional backbone connects with viewers’ everyday experiences.
• Character Continuity: Even as leads change, ties to earlier characters maintain connection.
• Generational Shifts: Time leaps allow fresh stories while preserving legacy.
• Adaptability: Incorporation of social issues, modern relationship dynamics, and trends keeps it relevant.
• Special Episodes & Spectacle: Weddings, festivals, destination shoots offer spectacle that draws interest.

Conclusion

Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai is a landmark television show in Indian entertainment history. Its blend of tradition and modernity, family drama, emotional relationships, and ability to evolve over time have helped it persist for more than a decade and counting.

It stands as a testament to how television serials can grow organically—embracing new leads, handling generational arcs, and still retaining a core emotional center. For many viewers, YRKKH is not just a show, but a representation of changing values, relationships, and the enduring power of family.