Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Jan 27: Television star Ankita Lokhande recently expressed heartfelt admiration for veteran actress Usha Nadkarni, best known as Savita Deshmukh from Pavitra Rishta, calling her a “rockstar” and a source of inspiration.

Ankita shared her thoughts after attending an event for Usha’s upcoming film Gandhi Talks, which also features South cinema icon Vijay Sethupathi. Taking to social media, she praised her former co-star’s humility, dedication, and passion for acting, describing her as motherly and straightforward yet profoundly simple.

In her post, Ankita wrote, “Aai, you are a rockstar and so inspiring in every way… so much to learn from you… how you till today remain passionate, dedicated, and humble towards your art… hats off to you. Love you aai for your straightforwardness yet so simple in every way #ushanatkarni.”

Fans of Pavitra Rishta will remember Usha Nadkarni as Ankita’s on-screen mother-in-law. Off-screen, the two share a close and affectionate bond, which they have spoken about in multiple interviews.

In a candid discussion on Ankita’s vlog, Usha had earlier shared the challenges of living alone at 80, revealing fears of aging and loneliness. She spoke about the risk of falling at home without anyone knowing and reflected on the personal loss of her brother in June 2024, saying, “If he had understood that I was going through something, he would have come running to me. Now whom should I tell?”

Ankita reassured her, encouraging Usha to consider her like a daughter and reach out anytime. Their bond highlights the warmth and mutual respect they share beyond their iconic roles.

For context, Pavitra Rishta premiered in 2009 and starred Ankita Lokhande and the late Sushant Singh Rajput as Archana and Maanav, becoming one of the most beloved TV shows of its time.