Ankita Lokhande recently evoked nostalgia among fans with a social media post that harked back to her popular television show, Pavitra Rishta, and her connection with the late Sushant Singh Rajput. The actress shared an old clip on her Instagram stories from the show, which featured her alongside Sushant.
The clip showed Ankita and Sushant, dressed in traditional attire, during what appeared to be a Navratri special episode. As Archana and Manav, the on-screen couple were seen holding dandiya sticks and dancing together. Lokhande chose not to add a caption to the video. The video was originally shared by Balaji Telefilms' Instagram handle, and Lokhande reposted it.
Pavitra Rishta, produced by Ektaa Kapoor, remains a beloved daily soap. Lokhande and Rajput's on-screen chemistry made them household names. Their bond extended beyond the screen, as they began dating during the filming of the show and were in a relationship for seven years before parting ways.
The song "Saathiya Tune Kya Kiya" is strongly associated with Pavitra Rishta and the characters of Archana and Manav. In fact, Lokhande danced to the song as a tribute to Rajput at the Zee Rishtey Awards in 2020. She even wore the same attire as her character, Archana, from Pavitra Rishta while dancing. Lokhande had shared a video of her rehearsing for the performance, noting how difficult and different it was to perform this time. She recalled the many performances she and Rajput had given together during award shows.
In 2024, as the show marked 15 years, Lokhande penned a heartfelt note for Rajput. She reflected on her journey as Archana and how much love she continued to receive for the role. Lokhande expressed that she felt destined to be Archana, stating that the character had taught her a lot about life. She also acknowledged Rajput's support, stating that she didn't know how to act when she started Pavitra Rishta, and he taught her. She said she would always be thankful to him.
Rajput, who went on to become a Bollywood star, passed away in June 2020. Lokhande has admitted that his death deeply disturbed her. Despite marrying businessman Vicky Jain in December 2021, she continues to cherish the memories of her early journey with Rajput through such tributes.
Lokhande's recent social media activity isn't the only instance of her sharing personal moments. Recently, she shared photos celebrating her husband, Vicky Jain's recovery, after he was hospitalized following an accident where he received 45 stitches. She has also posted throwback pictures with Jain, expressing her love and appreciation for him.
