Ankita Lokhande is celebrating 16 years since the premiere of "Pavitra Rishta," the Zee TV show that catapulted her to stardom. The actress has been sharing nostalgic posts and videos, reminiscing about her character, Archana, and the impact the show had on her life. In these reflections, she also fondly remembered her co-star, Sushant Singh Rajput, who played the male lead, Manav.

"Pavitra Rishta," which first aired on June 1, 2009, and ran until October 25, 2014, became a cultural phenomenon, celebrated for its emotional storytelling and the compelling chemistry between its lead actors. The show revolved around the love story of Archana and Manav, characters that resonated deeply with audiences and made Ankita and Sushant household names.

Ankita has often expressed her gratitude for the show and the opportunities it brought her. She acknowledged that "Pavitra Rishta" was more than just a show; it was a significant chapter in her life. The character of Archana became a part of her identity, shaping her both as an actress and as a woman. She cherishes the memories of iconic dialogues, emotional songs, and her first scene with Manav.

In her recent posts, Ankita has specifically remembered Sushant Singh Rajput, acknowledging his contribution to the show's success and her own personal growth. She recalled how Sushant helped her, especially in the initial days of shooting. She mentioned that Sushant was an amazing actor and used to help her a lot. She admitted that she used to get scared thinking about how she would perform big scenes in front of seasoned actors. Sushant would teach her how to deliver her lines, encouraging and supporting her.

The on-screen chemistry between Ankita and Sushant was undeniable, and their relationship extended beyond the screen. They dated for several years, and their bond was well-known to fans. While they eventually parted ways in 2016, their time together on "Pavitra Rishta" remains a cherished memory for both their fans and Ankita herself. She has, on multiple occasions, spoken about their relationship and the impact Sushant had on her life.

After Sushant Singh Rajput's tragic passing in June 2020, Ankita has often spoken about him, remembering their time together and defending his character. She has maintained a cordial relationship with Sushant's family, who have also shown their support and love for her.

As "Pavitra Rishta" marks its 16th anniversary, Ankita's reflections serve as a reminder of the show's enduring legacy and the impact it had on Indian television. It also highlights the special bond she shared with Sushant Singh Rajput, a bond that continues to be remembered and celebrated by fans around the world.