Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai Star Recalls Struggling Days, Reveals Working As Background Artist For Rs 500

Featuring Harshad Chopda and Pranali Rathod in the lead roles of Abhimanyu and Akshara respectively, Rajan Shahi's Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai has been continuously entertaining its loyal viewers.

One of the longest-running daily soaps on Star Plus, the family drama completed 14 successful years last month and is still fetching amazing numbers. YRKKH is a regular name in the weekly top five TRP list of most-watched shows on TV currently and makers often introduce many twists to make it more interesting for viewers.

Last month, Yeh Rishta Kye Kehlata Hai witnessed a 5-year leap after which Abhimanyu and Akshara got separated again due to Neil's (Paras Priyadarshan). TV actor Jay Soni entered the hit show as Abhinav, the new guy in Akshara's life.

He's playing a positive character and fans instantly fell in love with him. Best known for his role in Sasural Genda Phool opposite Ragini Khanna, the actor is known for playing strong characters in many popular shows.

However, did you know that he struggled a lot before finally making his mark in the industry? In a recent interview, Jay revealed working as a background artist for Rs 500 per day. Yes, you read that right!

Well, he hails from Baroda and came to Mumbai just to support his family and wasn't even interested in acting. Recalling his struggling days, Jay told ETimes, "We'd lost everything that my father had worked hard for. We left our hometown and moved to Mumbai. I was okay with doing any work as long as it helped me support my family. I vividly remember the time when I was offered to be a background artiste for which I was paid Rs. 500 per day."

He added, "It was for three days. On the second day, I was down with high fever, but I couldn't call in sick because that would mean losing the money. I requested the production team to reduce the air-conditioning because I was shivering, but the lead actress opposed it. I shot for it anyway and was paid Rs 1,500. I remember holding on to the cash throughout the journey from town to the suburbs."

Well, he learned a lot from his struggle and now owns a big fan following.