Ayesha Khan opens up about her show, Dil Ko Rafu Karr Lei, love, stardom and social media trolls 

Ria Sharma

Ayesha Khan, who made waves as a wildcard contestant in Bigg Boss 17, is now winning hearts as Nikki in Dil Ko Rafu Karr Lei. The show, inspired by the charm of Pakistani dramas, blends romance, emotions, and family drama. In this candid conversation, Ayesha opens up about drawing parallels between Indian and Pakistani dramas, her take on love, the challenges of being in the entertainment industry, and dealing with social media scrutiny. Excerpts: 

Q. Dil Ko Rafu Karr Lei draws inspiration from Pakistani dramas. What elements of these dramas do you think relate most to Indian audiences?

A. I think the base idea of a drama, whether it’s Pakistani or Indian, is to create something that can be watched with the whole family. Yes, Indian dramas are different in the current scenario, but I believe elements like keeping it simple, ensuring fun, incorporating all emotions, and making it as natural as possible are key similarities. 

Q. Do you watch Pakistani shows? Did you take inspiration from any Pakistani actresses to play the role of Nikki?

A. Yes, I have watched a Pakistani show. Suno Chanda was my first, and I love Sajal Ali. I adored her acting throughout the show. I have also watched Mere Humsafar. However, I haven’t taken inspiration from any particular Pakistani drama actor or character. But emotions portrayed in Indian dramas, Bollywood films, and Pakistani dramas are often similar. This character isn’t something that hasn’t been played before - it’s quite relatable. It reminds me of Geet (Kareena Kapoor in Jab We Met) and other bubbly characters. So, in that way, many characters serve as an inspiration, making it easier, but I wouldn’t say I followed any specific one.

Q. Your character dreams of a fairytale wedding and romance. What kind of romance do you wish to have in your life?

A. I am not sure about my idea of romance, but if I could simplify it, I would like to have a married life like my parents. They fight, they get back together every day, but there’s love, compassion, and respect between them. I believe respect is equally important in a relationship.

Q. What aspects of Nikki’s personality do you relate to the most, and which ones are completely opposite to your own?

A. Nikki’s character is a free spirit, and I think that is something I relate to because I am also very bubbly. However, her idea of love and marriage is not something that matches with me.

Q. What were the biggest challenges you faced when you entered the entertainment industry, and how did you overcome them?

A. There were many challenges, and most of them were fights within myself. I used to feel like I didn’t belong here, that I didn’t look a certain way or fit into a particular category. But over time, I realised that I was never meant to fit in - none of us are. We are all meant to look and feel different. It took time, but I overcame it. Apart from that, every industry has its struggles. Facing rejections is part and parcel of this profession. You just have to take it as it comes.