Aanchal Khurana: I have never dated any of my co-stars, and I decided that from the very beginning

Actor Aanchal Khurana, known for shows like MTV Roadies 8, Sapne Suhane Ladakpan Ke, Sarojini – Ek Nayi Pehal, Zindagi Ki Mehek, Roop – Mard Ka Naya Swaroop, Bade Achhe Lagte Hain 2, and Mujhse Shaadi Karoge, has a clear stance when it comes to workplace relationships. While romances between co-stars are often discussed in the entertainment industry, Aanchal says she consciously chose never to blur the line between her professional and personal life.

“Yes, I have never dated any of my co-stars. I decided that in the beginning itself,” she says. “I’ve often heard people say that when you work together for 12-hour shifts, feelings naturally develop. But I never agreed with that logic.”

Questioning the common perception of on-set romances, Aanchal adds, “If you fall for someone because you’re working with them for six months, then what happens when you start another show and work closely with someone else? Will you fall for them too? It may sound acceptable when someone is single, but what about when people are already committed or married?”

The actress believes that many actors mistake the emotional connection of their characters for real-life feelings. “You spend hours living a character with your co-actor, but you don’t really know who that person is beyond the set. You don’t know their real habits, lifestyle, or who they are outside the show,” she explains. “People often confuse the emotions of the characters they are playing with reality.”

According to Aanchal, this is why many relationships that begin during shoots struggle after the project ends. “Once the show is over, reality sets in. The romance may last for a while, but then real-life differences start showing up,” she says.

She is also firm about maintaining professionalism on set. “If I like someone, I have a commitment to them outside work. And even if I’m single, I’m not going to a set looking for romantic connections,” she says. “When personal issues between co-stars begin affecting performances, it becomes unfair to the hundreds of people working on the show. People don’t really understand the meaning of commitment anymore. I’ve seen people leave existing relationships for co-stars, and then move on again when the next project begins. For me, commitment and clarity have always come first.”