Television star Shivangi Joshi may have portrayed several memorable characters over the years, but for millions of fans, she will always be Naira Singhania Goenka from the long-running hit show Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai. As the actress prepares to showcase a completely different side of herself in Lock Upp: Sach Ya Sazaa, she has reflected on the role that transformed her career and why she still cherishes being identified as Naira.
In a recent interview before entering the reality show, Shivangi spoke candidly about the lasting impact of the beloved character. While many actors worry about being typecast after playing an iconic role, she believes her journey proves otherwise.
Responding to whether Naira’s popularity overshadowed her later performances, Shivangi dismissed the idea. She pointed out that after leaving Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, she continued to receive meaningful opportunities in projects such as Balika Vadhu 2 and Barsatein – Mausam Pyaar Ka. According to the actress, audiences embraced those characters as well, showing that her career continued to evolve beyond her breakout role. However, Shivangi admitted that Naira will always hold a special place in her heart.
“Naira was one of my favourite characters and will always be. Naira and I, as Shivangi, were the closest. So I relate to this character the most. And I like it when people call me Naira,” she shared.
Her statement is likely to resonate with fans who have followed her television journey over the years. Naira wasn’t just another on-screen character—it became a cultural phenomenon, making Shivangi one of Indian television’s most recognized faces.
Now, the actress is stepping into unfamiliar territory with Lock Upp: Sach Ya Sazaa, a reality show that demands contestants reveal their authentic personalities rather than perform scripted roles.
Unlike the carefully crafted characters she has portrayed in fiction, Shivangi says she has entered the competition without a fixed strategy. She acknowledged that many viewers perceive her as a soft-spoken and sweet individual, but believes the show will allow audiences to see another side of her personality. She hinted that fans can expect a stronger, more resilient version of herself as the competition progresses.
Shivangi also revealed that the biggest challenge for her won’t necessarily be the tasks or conflicts inside the house—it will be adjusting to complete independence. Growing up in a highly protective environment, she admitted she has never even travelled alone before.
Living away from her family and handling everything on her own will be a completely new experience, one she believes could transform her. She even teased that viewers might witness “Shivangi 2.0” by the end of the journey.
With Lock Upp: Sach Ya Sazaa already generating buzz for its dramatic format and unpredictable contestants, Shivangi Joshi’s participation has become one of the season’s biggest talking points. Whether she emerges as the calm and composed personality fans know or surprises everyone with a bold new avatar, one thing remains certain Naira’s legacy continues to follow her, and she wouldn’t have it any other way.
