Overview

• Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai continues to top TRP charts and Shukla says the one-hour gap before Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Thi’s 10:30 PM premiere will protect its viewership.
• Shukla secured the lead role after a last-minute second audition, underscoring the unpredictability of casting decisions early in her career.
• She endures a relentless shooting schedule of up to 30 days per month with shifts that can exceed 12 hours, making the lead role physically and mentally taxing.
• Recalling her film audition days, Shukla says she never faced direct casting-couch demands but walked away when a South Indian coordinator implied compromises.
• The actress rules out Bigg Boss for now but admits she might consider Khatron Ke Khiladi despite her fears of its challenges.