# Naira Singhania Goenka

Naira Singhania Goenka is the protagonist of the second generation of the longest-running Indian television soap Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai. Created by Rajan Shahi under Director's Kut Productions, the series became a cultural phenomenon. Portrayed by Shivangi Joshi and Ashnoor Kaur, Naira is known for her outspoken and fearless nature.She is also known for her stylish wardrobe which is termed as most popular in indian television.

## Development
### Concept and creation

Naira was introduced as the daughter of Akshara Maheshwari Singhania and Naitik Singhania. The character was created to represent a modern yet grounded young woman who navigates familial expectations, societal norms, and personal aspirations. Initially depicted as a carefree and rebellious teenager, Naira’s evolution into a mature, loving daughter, wife, and mother became central to the narrative of the series. In November 2016, Hina Khan playing Akshara quit as her character became monotonous for her and she was shown killed in a car accident. While Joshi playing Naira, who entered in May 2016, turned into the central character as the story started focusing on her journey.

### Casting

When the character of Naira Singhania was introduced, her baby years were portrayed by Mishka Jain. After the 10 year leap, Ashnoor Kaur was cast as the young Naira and played the role from 2015 to 2016. Her portrayal of Naira's innocence and rebellious streak garnered appreciation and laid the foundation for the character’s popularity. Shivangi Joshi was cast as Naira in 2016 after a major leap in the storyline. Her portrayal was widely appreciated for its depth and relatability, earning her several awards and nominations. Producer Rajan Shahi stated in interviews that Shivangi’s ability to connect emotionally with the audience played a key role in the success of Naira's character.

## Characterization and evolution
### Fiction

Naira is a fearless and out-spoken girl from Udaipur, who is known for her positive nature. She is born as the second child of Akshara and Naitik Singhania. Soon after her birth, her character shifts to Cape Town along with her parents as Kaveri Singhania ousts Akshara from their house. 10 years later, she returns back, but a misunderstanding leads her to flee to Rishikesh, where she lives in an orphanage. 7 years later, Akshara finds her and takes her back. Soon, they reconcile and she falls in love with Kartik Goenka, then an employee of her father. Akshara dies in an accident. The show shifts focus to Naira. She and Kartik get married, but struggle due to many misunderstandings. Overtime, they fix the issues of their marriage and grow into a perfect couple. Naira delivers a boy, named Kairav and later a girl, whom she names Akshara after her late mother. She dies after falling off a cliff.

### Impact

Naira was written as a multi-dimensional character, blending tradition with modernity. Her character was portrayed as a symbol of resilience and strength, tackling issues such as marital conflicts and family dynamics.In short span of time shivangi's portrayal of naira earned huge fanbase. In the show her bridal entry on bike in the grandest wedding of ITV has set huge trend. She influenced bridal entry culture in India that to this day brides copy her style of entry on bike. She has said to worn the most heavy and expensive bridal lahenga that any actress has in ITV. Clothes with the name 'Naira Cut' are hugely popular in market. When compared with other female leads of the show Shivangi Joshi as Naira most of the times emerges as fan favourite character defeating Akshara her mother as well.