Lesson in progress

Karuna Pandey

There's more than one reason for Karuna Pandey to be revelling. While she is claiming the stage with her performances on Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa, the actor is in a celebratory mood as her show, Pushpa Impossible, is set to complete 500 episodes on Thursday. The journey that began in June 2022 has been rewarding for Pandey, whose popularity soared like never before while impacting people's lives.

"It's not common for a television show or movie to have such an impact. In a time when there's a tonne of stuff to watch online, this show stands out [and convinces] people to live a better life. So many have come to me saying that Pushpa Impossible has made a big difference in their lives. It has inspired people to go back to school, respect their parents, and improve how they converse with their families," says the actor, who claims she has personally learnt to tackle tough situations with positivity while working on the show. "The character is not ordinary; it is rich in depth and beauty. Being a part of it has been rewarding and brought about a big positive change in my life. While people knew me as an actor before, this show has made me more popular and helped me find a place in the audience's hearts," she says, adding that the viewers are able to connect with Pushpa, who deals with all the trials in her life with a positive and never-say-die attitude.

Crediting the entire team for their hard work, Pandey shares that the writers have kept it real and relatable. "The teamwork of having a great concept, good writing, and smooth execution is what makes Pushpa Impossible so impactful." But among all the tracks in the daily soap, the one where Pushpa strives to study again is the one closest to her heart. "Pushpa is a tough learner who goes through a lot as a single mom. Even though she faces tough times and meets not-so-nice people, she stays strong. Her story is about going back to school and learning new things. Right now, she's studying law. The story is all about how she's growing up, meeting an old friend, and always being ready to face challenges in a positive way. Learning is a big part of her journey, showing how determined she is to handle new experiences and overcome problems," she adds.