Khushi Bharadwaj on playing a teen on the autism spectrum in Criminal Justice 4: It made me more aware of how overwhelming the world can feel

Khushi Bharadwaj

, known for her roles in Baalveer Returns, Tiku Weds Sheru, 36 Days, Gyarah Gyarah, and IC 814, is receiving positive feedback for her performance in

Criminal Justice: A Family Matter

. In the show, she portrays Ira, a teenager on the autism spectrum.Reflecting on the preparation that went into the role, the 17-year-old shares, “Bringing Ira to life was quite a process. I spent around two weeks doing four-hour workshops every day to understand her world better. My acting coach, Sandeep Ghosh sir, was instrumental in helping me shape the character. I remember being really nervous during the first scene — I wasn’t sure if I was getting it right. But gradually, I settled into the role. Playing Ira made me realise how overwhelming and confusing the world can sometimes feel for someone on the spectrum. It gave me a deeper sense of empathy and respect for their lived experience.”

Despite the demanding shoot, Khushi was also balancing her 10th-grade board exams. Asked how she managed academics alongside a complex role, she admits, “It wasn’t easy. I’d study during breaks on set and made sure to cover extra ground before shooting began. But I believe that when you truly care about both things — acting and studying — you find a way to make it work.”

Grateful for the experience, she adds, “I’d love to play a character like Ira again, if given the opportunity. It’s the kind of role that stays with you and changes you.”Criminal Justice: A Family Matter features Pankaj Tripathi in the lead role and also stars Surveen Chawla, Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, Shweta Basu Prasad, and Asha Negi.