Exclusive - Ruheen Ali on playing Geetanjali in Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai; says ‘Her love for Maira is immense and selfless’

Ruheen Ali, who plays Geetanjali in Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, says the character's love for Maira is one of her most defining traits. “It’s a very sweet bond—almost like that of a mother and daughter.

Her love for Maira is immense and selfless.”Ruheen adds that Geetanjali holds a deep respect for Armaan as well. “She definitely wants to be part of his life, but it’s all very pure and respectful. Her emotions are sincere.”Talking about the audience's response, she says, “If people love or even dislike her, that means I’m doing something right. I take it as a sign they’re engaged.”Joining a long-running show with a loyal fan base could be daunting, but Ruheen remained grounded.

“I kept reminding myself that if I stay honest to Geetanjali, people will connect. I’m not overconfident, but I do trust my process.”As for her prep, Ruheen did go back to the roots. “When I was little, I watched the show with my grandmother. I admired Hina Khan ma'am a lot. Even now, I sometimes rewatch her or Shivangi ma’am’s clips to understand the tone.”She also hints at layers to Geetanjali’s story that are yet to be explored. “There’s something in her past, maybe related to her parents, which gives her this sense of responsibility for Maira and Armaan. She sees them as her own.”Ruheen’s grounded approach to her role is evident. “I’m always thinking about how to improve—how to make it better. That’s all that matters to me.”