Ayushi Khurana’s Rising Path: Navigating Challenges in Jaane Anjaane Hum Mile

By Anil Merani: Ayushi Khurana has steadily established herself in Indian television, transitioning from minor roles to leading parts, showcasing her versatility as an actress. Her current project, Jaane Anjaane Hum Mile, which premiered on Zee TV on November 11, 2024, features her as Reet Chaudhary, a bold journalist navigating a complex marriage. This role is significant as it not only highlights her acting skills but also challenges traditional gender norms, a theme that resonates with the modern Indian audience. However, the show has yet to generate substantial industry buzz, raising questions about her career momentum compared to her peers in the competitive TV landscape.

Ayushi began her career with supporting roles in shows like Savitri Devi College & Hospital (2017), where she gained valuable experience. Her breakthrough came with Ajooni (2022) on Star Bharat, where she played the resilient lead for over 500 episodes, earning praise for her chemistry with co-star Shoaib Ibrahim. This role established her as a reliable actress, further supported by her father’s encouragement, as she shared in a 2023 interview with Filmibeat, reflecting her growing credibility. She showcased her range in Mann Sundar (2021) as Niharika and Aangan Aapno Kaa (2023) as Pallavi, tackling diverse genres from intense drama to family-centric narratives. These projects on major channels like Dangal and Sony SAB illustrate her ability to secure consistent work.

In Jaane Anjaane Hum Mile, Ayushi’s portrayal of Reet has received critical acclaim for its depth, blending strength and vulnerability. The show’s exploration of traditional marriage customs has been praised for its bold premise, and her dynamic with co-star Bharat Ahlawat keeps viewers engaged. A March 2025 special episode with Vasudha boosted visibility, and moments like her Aashiqui-inspired rain scene went viral among fans. However, social media feedback has been mixed, with some viewers citing slow pacing and tough competition from reality shows and top soaps like Anupamaa in the 9:30 PM slot. This limited buzz contrasts with the high-profile hype surrounding other actors’ projects, suggesting that Ayushi’s show hasn’t fully captured the mainstream spotlight.

Ayushi’s career is on an upward trajectory, but her current project’s moderate traction highlights certain challenges. Her strengths include versatility, the ability to avoid typecasting, and industry trust, evidenced by collaborations with producers like Goldie Behl. Her wedding to Suraj Kakkar in December 2024, which coincided with Reet’s on-screen marriage, helped enhance her public image, with co-stars like Jayati Bhatia praising her warmth. This personal milestone not only endeared her to fans but also added a layer of authenticity to her on-screen portrayal. However, her understated media presence limits her visibility compared to peers who tend to dominate headlines. The risk of Jaane Anjaane Hum Mile losing viewership in a crowded market could disrupt her momentum, unlike established stars who consistently achieve hits.

Strategically, Ayushi is making sound choices by selecting meaningful roles and refining her skills, as seen in her preparation for Reet and in tackling demanding scenes, such as an underwater sequence in April 2025. To elevate her profile, she could explore opportunities in OTT platforms, where her journalist role might translate into digital thrillers, or enhance her social media presence to compete with more viral stars. While Jaane Anjaane Hum Mile hasn’t dominated public conversations, Ayushi’s talent and work ethic position her for future success if she navigates the industry’s demands with bolder moves.