8th September 2023,Mumbai: 15 Years of Undying Love
Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, a beloved Indian television show, has stood the test of time for an impressive 15 years. What’s even more remarkable is that its fanbase continues to grow. The credit for this enduring success goes to the dedicated writers and makers who consistently introduce captivating twists and turns to keep viewers engaged.
The Stirring Buzz of a Generation Leap
Recently, the show has been making headlines due to rumors of an impending generation leap. However, it’s not just the plot developments that are stirring conversations. The exit of Jay Soni, who portrayed Abhinav, took everyone by surprise. While Abhinav had his share of admirers, a significant number of fans expressed their disdain for his character, mostly because they yearned for Abhimanyu and Akshara to reunite. This divide among fans led to the creation of the #AbhiRa hashtag.
The Unwanted Fandom Hate
Fandoms in the world of television are notorious for their passionate opinions, and Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai is no exception. Initially, it was Manjari, portrayed by Ami Trivedi, who bore the brunt of fan hatred for her role in keeping Abhimanyu and Akshara apart. Later, Manjari attempted to separate Abhir as well, leading to a custody battle that further fueled the fan flames. In this competitive environment, Ami Trivedi, who brings Manjari to life on screen, opened up about a disturbing incident that shed light on the dark side of fandoms.
When Hate Goes Personal
Ami Trivedi candidly shared, “I have read the messages, and I don’t mind the hate. When you are an Abhimanyu and Akshara fan, I know Manjari’s character will receive hate, which is fine and understandable. But when they target me individually, it’s not right.” She recounted an incident where a woman cursed her, saying, “Aapka beta bhi aapko chhodke chala jayega tab aapko pata chalega” (Your son will also leave you, and then you’ll know). Ami was understandably taken aback, questioning the extremity of the comments. She emphasized that acting is just a profession, and personal attacks are unjustified.
Drawing the Line between Fiction and Reality
Ami Trivedi, like many actors, is protective of her personal life. She stated, “You personally target someone, and especially when it comes to my son or my family, I won’t like it. Manjari is a character that is created, and we are told to portray the character.” She reminded viewers that her role should serve as a lesson on what not to do in real life, rather than a reason to unleash hate.
The Unfathomable World of Online Hate
Ami expressed her bewilderment at the personal attacks actors often face, remarking, “I don’t understand when people target us personally. How can they say such things about a person whom they don’t even know? They say things like ‘marr jaa’ (die) and use bad words. I really don’t understand this.” The impact of such negativity on actors can be profound, but Ami acknowledged that they have learned to develop a thicker skin and disregard such unwarranted hatred.
Choosing Positivity over Negativity
Ami Trivedi and her fellow actors on Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai emphasize that they are all professionals doing their job. There’s no need for personal attacks and hatred within fandoms. The enduring success of the show is a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved, and it should serve as a reminder that entertainment is meant to be enjoyed and appreciated. While passion for a show is wonderful, it should never cross the line into personal animosity. As Ami Trivedi aptly stated, “We have learned to ignore now,” focusing on the positive aspects of their profession and the joy it brings to countless viewers across the world.
-by Kashvi Gala