By Anil Merani: The hesitation of Anupamaa’s makers to commit Anupamaa to a new romantic relationship, particularly with Raghav, and their tendency to keep her in platonic or ambiguous “friendzone” dynamics, has sparked significant fan frustration. This pattern, especially after her separation from Anuj, is deeply rooted in the show’s thematic core, which resonates with the audience. Below, I explore why the makers avoid a new romantic commitment for Anupamaa, the fan reaction to the Raghav-Anupamaa equation, and the broader implications, while addressing why Anupamaa struggles to “find love.”
Why the Makers Avoid Committing Anupamaa to a New Relationship
Preserving Anupamaa’s Core Identity as an Independent Woman
By Anil Merani: The show’s central theme revolves around Anupamaa’s journey from a suppressed housewife to an empowered, self-reliant woman. Her divorce from Vanraj and her marriage to Anuj were pivotal, but her growth as an individual, through ventures like Anu Ki Rasoi and her fight against societal norms, has been the story’s heart. Committing her to a new relationship, especially soon after the emotional weight of her separation from Anuj, risks diluting this narrative of self-discovery. The makers seem cautious about tying her identity to another romantic partner, as fans have historically praised her for breaking free from patriarchal constraints. For instance, her choice to prioritise her family and personal growth over romantic pursuits has resonated with viewers who see her as a role model for resilience.
Fan Loyalty to the Anuj-Anupamaa (#MaAn) Equation
The Anuj-Anupamaa romance, known as #MaAn, remains a cornerstone of the show’s popularity. Fans have a deep emotional attachment to this pairing, evident in their backlash to storylines that deviate from it, such as the reused wedding outfits for Prem and Raahi, which sparked comparisons to Anuj’s wedding. Social media posts on X reflect this sentiment, with fans asserting that Anupamaa’s love for Anuj remains unparalleled and that a new romance, even with Raghav, would feel like a betrayal. The makers likely fear alienating this loyal fanbase by replacing Anuj with another partner, especially given the show’s recent TRP drop from 4.6 to 2.0 in early 2025, partly attributed to shifts away from Anupamaa’s central story.
Narrative Strategy to Maintain Drama and Suspense
Keeping Anupamaa in ambiguous, platonic relationships—like those with Yashdeep or Raghav—creates narrative tension and keeps viewers guessing. The makers have introduced characters like Raghav, whose complex backstory (e.g., his imprisonment and connection to Raahi’s attack) adds intrigue without immediately pushing for romance. This friendzoning allows the show to explore emotional depth, such as Raghav’s gratitude for Anupamaa’s support or their shared moments like the flower pot gesture, without committing to a romantic arc that might resolve too quickly. However, fans have criticised this as repetitive, arguing it sidelines Anupamaa’s journey for side plots involving characters like the Kotharis.
Cultural Sensitivities and Audience Expectations
Anupamaa caters to a broad Indian audience, many of whom hold traditional views on remarriage, especially for middle-aged women. While the show has broken stereotypes (e.g., Anupamaa’s divorce and remarriage at 45-50), pushing her into a third marriage or a quick romantic arc with Raghav could alienate conservative viewers. The backlash to Anupamaa’s friendship with Raghav, with neighbours taunting her about a “third marriage,” reflects this societal scrutiny, which the makers may be mirroring to maintain relatability. Fans have noted this double standard, pointing out that the show hesitates to let Anupamaa move on romantically while normalising toxic behaviour from male characters like Vanraj and Toshu.
Avoiding Closure to Extend the Show’s Run
Indian daily soaps thrive on prolonged drama, and giving Anupamaa a stable romantic resolution could reduce the stakes. Fans have expressed frustration with this “recycled drama,” noting that Anupamaa faces constant hurdles without the “catharsis” of a happy ending. The makers’ response to criticism about the mehendi episode in 2022—defending a low-key wedding to reflect middle-class relatability—suggests they prioritise ongoing conflict over closure. A new relationship, if successful, might push the story toward a finite endpoint, which conflicts with the show’s need to sustain viewership.
Fan Reaction to the Raghav-Anupamaa Equation
The Raghav-Anupamaa dynamic has generated polarised reactions. Some fans see it as a fresh, compelling arc with “spunk” that could potentially overshadow the Anuj-Anupamaa romance, while others staunchly oppose any romantic angle.
Why Fans Like Raghav-Anupamaa:
Raghav, played by Manish Goel, brings a layered character to the show—a former prisoner seeking redemption, falsely accused, and emotionally vulnerable. His interactions with Anupamaa, such as the flower pot gesture or her saving him from suicide, are heartfelt and showcase her compassion, resonating with viewers who want her to find new purpose. Fans who support this equation argue that Raghav’s complexity and gratitude toward Anupamaa offer a dynamic that contrasts with Anuj’s more idealised romance. Social media posts suggest that some viewers appreciate their platonic bond but see romantic potential, especially as Anupamaa helps Raghav rebuild his life. The chemistry, rooted in mutual support, feels organic to fans tired of repetitive Shah-Kapadia family drama.
Why Fans Feel It Won’t Outshine #MaAn:
Despite the appeal, many fans argue that Raghav-Anupamaa lacks the emotional history and fanbase of #MaAn. Posts on X emphasise that Anupamaa’s love for Anuj is still evident in her dialogue, and any romantic angle with Raghav would feel forced. The #MaAn fandom’s emotional investment—evident in their outrage over recycled wedding outfits or Anuj’s absence—creates a high bar for any new pairing. Additionally, Raahi’s discomfort with Anupamaa and Raghav’s closeness mirrors fan sentiment that Raghav cannot replace Anuj, especially as Anupamaa herself references Anuj fondly.