Pooja Joshi Arora has captured hearts with her stellar performance in Indian television. The talented actress rose to fame through her iconic role as Varsha in the popular TV show “Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai.”
From her humble beginnings in Mumbai to becoming a household name, Pooja’s journey showcases dedication and passion.
This article explores everything about Pooja Joshi Arora’s personal life, her successful career in television, her family bonds, and her inspiring journey as an actress and mother in 2026.
Quick Facts About Pooja Joshi Arora
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Pooja Joshi Arora |
| Date of Birth | May 27, 1989 |
| Age | 36 years (as of 2026) |
| Birthplace | Mumbai, Maharashtra, India |
| Profession | Television Actress |
| Famous For | Varsha in Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Husband | Manish Arora (Businessman) |
| Children | Two Daughters (Riddhima & second daughter) |
| Height | 5’3″ (160 cm) |
| Net Worth | ₹4-5 Crore (approx.) |
Who is Pooja Joshi Arora?
Pooja Joshi Arora is a renowned Indian television actress who gained immense popularity through her portrayal of Varsha in Star Plus’s longest-running show “Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai.” Born on May 27, 1989, in Mumbai, Maharashtra, Pooja has established herself as a talented performer in the Hindi television industry.
Her natural acting skills and charming personality made her a fan favorite. She perfectly embodied the character of Akshara’s (played by Hina Khan) best friend and sister-in-law Varsha.
Early Life and Education
Pooja Joshi Arora was born and raised in Mumbai, Maharashtra. She comes from a close-knit family that supported her dreams from the beginning.
She completed her schooling at Shree Ram High School in Mumbai. Later, she pursued higher education at St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai, where she graduated with honors.
Growing up in Mumbai, Pooja was exposed to the entertainment industry from a young age. This early exposure sparked her interest in acting and performance arts.
Her parents encouraged her passion for the arts. She actively participated in school plays and cultural programs during her student years.
Physical Appearance
Pooja Joshi Arora possesses an attractive personality with graceful features. She stands at 5 feet 3 inches (160 cm) tall and maintains a healthy weight of approximately 68 kg.
Her body measurements are 34-30-26, reflecting her well-maintained physique. She has captivating dark brown eyes that add depth to her expressions.
Her natural black hair complements her fair complexion. Pooja often experiments with different hairstyles for her roles and public appearances.
She maintains her fitness through regular exercise and a balanced diet. Her vegetarian lifestyle contributes to her healthy and glowing appearance.
Family Background
Pooja Joshi Arora was born to Rajveer Joshi and Sritha Joshi. Sadly, her father Rajveer Joshi passed away, leaving a void in the family.
Her mother Sritha Joshi has been a pillar of strength throughout her journey. She has two sisters named Gayatri Joshi and Damini Joshi.
The three sisters share a strong bond and often support each other. Family values play a crucial role in Pooja’s life and decisions.
Despite her busy schedule, she makes time for family gatherings. Her sisters frequently appear on her social media posts, showcasing their close relationship.
Marriage to Manish Arora
Pooja Joshi tied the knot with Manish Arora on November 25, 2015. Manish is a successful businessman from Akola who runs a printing press in Mumbai.
Their wedding was a beautiful affair attended by family and close friends. The couple’s love story is admired by fans across social media platforms.
Manish has been extremely supportive of Pooja’s acting career. He often accompanies her to industry events and award functions.
The couple shares a strong partnership built on mutual respect and understanding. They frequently share glimpses of their happy married life on Instagram.
In 2019, Pooja and Manish appeared together on the cooking reality show “Kitchen Champion.” The couple showcased their culinary skills and won the competition.
Motherhood Journey
Pooja Joshi Arora embraced motherhood for the first time in 2017. She gave birth to her first daughter, Riddhima Arora, who brought immense joy to the family.
The arrival of Riddhima transformed Pooja’s life completely. She often shares that motherhood made her more calm and composed.
In July 2023, Pooja announced her second pregnancy through an adorable video on Instagram. The announcement featured her daughter Riddhima holding a board that read “Going to become big didi soon.”
On August 11, 2023, Pooja welcomed her second daughter. She shared the happy news on Instagram, asking fans to shower blessings on her baby girl.
Pooja beautifully balances her roles as a mother and actress. She often posts heartwarming pictures with her daughters on social media.
Her Instagram is filled with precious moments of family bonding. Fans love seeing her transformation into a devoted and caring mother.
Television Career
Early Beginnings
Pooja Joshi Arora made her television debut with the show “Mano Ya Na Mano.” Though the show didn’t create major waves, it gave her valuable industry experience.
She learned the nuances of television acting during this initial phase. Her dedication and talent caught the attention of casting directors.
Breakthrough with Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai
Her career-defining moment came when she was cast as Varsha in “Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai” (YRKKH). The show premiered in 2009 on Star Plus and became one of India’s longest-running television series.
Pooja portrayed Varsha, Akshara’s best friend and Naitik’s sister. Her character was loving, supportive, and brought comic relief to intense situations.
Her chemistry with co-stars, especially Hina Khan, was widely appreciated. The on-screen friendship between Akshara and Varsha became iconic.
Pooja remained associated with YRKKH for several years. Her consistent performance made Varsha a beloved character in Indian households.
Awards and Recognition
For her outstanding performance in Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, Pooja received the prestigious “Telly Award” for Best Actress in a Supporting Role. This recognition validated her hard work and talent.
The award boosted her confidence and opened new opportunities. Industry insiders praised her natural acting style and screen presence.
Other Television Projects
After YRKKH, Pooja appeared in “Yeh Rishtey Hain Pyaar Ke,” the spin-off of her famous show. She reprised her role as Varsha, delighting fans.
She also worked in the historical drama “Dharti Ka Veer Yoddha Prithviraj Chauhan.” Her versatility as an actress shone through different genres.
Pooja was part of other notable shows including “Mera Sasural” and “Sujata.” Each role showcased different facets of her acting abilities.
Web Series and OTT Platforms
Pooja expanded her horizons by venturing into web series. She appeared in “Agent Mona 0.1,” showcasing her adaptability to new-age content.
She also featured in the web series “BubblePur” on Kooku in 2021. This marked her exploration of bolder content on OTT platforms.
Her work in “Scorned” (2020) demonstrated her willingness to experiment. The digital space allowed her to take on diverse and challenging roles.
Social Media Presence
Pooja Joshi Arora maintains an active presence on social media platforms. Her Instagram account (@poojajoshiarorareal) has over 255,000 followers as of 2026.
She describes herself as a “Musicophile” and “Dance enthusiast” in her bio. Her posts include family moments, throwback pictures, and professional updates.
Her Facebook page has approximately 5,000 followers. She uses social media to stay connected with fans who supported her throughout her career.
Pooja regularly interacts with her followers through comments and stories. She shares glimpses of her daily life, including cooking, dancing, and spending time with daughters.
Her social media feeds reflect her personality – warm, genuine, and family-oriented. Fans appreciate her authenticity and relatability.
Personal Interests and Hobbies
Beyond acting, Pooja Joshi Arora has diverse interests that define her personality. She is passionate about traveling and exploring new destinations.
Her favorite travel destinations include Goa and Russia. She enjoys experiencing different cultures and cuisines during her travels.
Music holds a special place in her heart. As a self-proclaimed musicophile, she loves listening to Arijit Singh’s soulful songs.
Dancing is another passion that brings joy to her life. She often shares dance videos on Instagram, showcasing her moves.
Pooja is an avid dog lover and has two pet dogs named Shiro and Chhutki. She frequently posts adorable pictures with her furry companions.
She enjoys cooking traditional Indian dishes. Her favorite food is simple Dal Chawal, though she also loves Pineapple Cake for dessert.
Lifestyle and Preferences
Pooja Joshi Arora follows a vegetarian diet and maintains a healthy lifestyle. She neither smokes nor drinks alcohol, prioritizing her health and well-being.
Her zodiac sign is Gemini, which reflects in her adaptable and communicative nature. She practices Hinduism and respects traditional values.
Pooja’s favorite actor is Salman Khan, while she idolizes Madhuri Dixit as her inspiration. She considers Madhuri’s grace and talent as benchmarks in acting.
Her favorite colors are red and blue, which she often incorporates in her wardrobe. She is right-handed and speaks both Hindi and English fluently.
Coffee is her preferred beverage, especially during busy shooting schedules. She enjoys playing and watching cricket during leisure time.
Professional Achievements
Pooja’s journey in television spans over a decade with numerous achievements. She successfully portrayed memorable characters that resonated with audiences.
Her role as Varsha in YRKKH remains her most recognized work. The character’s popularity led to her appearance in the show’s spin-off.
Winning the Telly Award marked a significant milestone in her career. This recognition from industry peers validated her acting prowess.
Her participation and victory in “Kitchen Champion” with husband Manish showcased her versatility. The cooking show revealed another dimension of her personality.
Her venture into web series demonstrates her forward-thinking approach. She successfully transitioned from traditional television to digital platforms.
Current Status in 2026
As of 2026, Pooja Joshi Arora is taking a break from active acting. She is currently focusing on her personal life and raising her two daughters.
Though away from the screen, she remains connected with her fans through social media. Her followers eagerly await her return to television or digital platforms.
Pooja occasionally attends industry events and functions. She maintains relationships with her former co-stars and industry colleagues.
Her estimated net worth stands at ₹4-5 crore as of 2026. This includes earnings from television shows, web series, endorsements, and other ventures.
Her monthly salary during active years ranged between ₹2-3 lakh. Smart investments and business ventures contribute to her financial stability.
Relationship with Co-Stars
Pooja shares wonderful relationships with her “Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai” co-stars. Her bond with Hina Khan (Akshara) extended beyond the screen.
Hina and Pooja’s friendship became talk of the town during their YRKKH days. They supported each other both professionally and personally.
Recently, Hina Khan welcomed Pooja back on Instagram, showing their enduring friendship. Such gestures highlight the genuine bonds formed on set.
Other co-stars including Neha Saroopa Babani and Nidhi Uttam remain in touch. They regularly comment on each other’s social media posts.
Former colleagues congratulated Pooja during her pregnancy announcements. The industry support reflects her positive reputation among peers.
Challenges and Comeback
Every actress faces challenges in the competitive television industry. Pooja managed to maintain her relevance despite taking breaks for motherhood.
Balancing personal life with professional commitments required careful planning. She chose to prioritize family during crucial life stages.
After delivering her first daughter in 2017, she took time off from acting. This decision helped her adjust to new responsibilities as a mother.
Her return to work was strategic and selective. She chose projects that aligned with her availability and interests.
The transition to motherhood changed her perspective on career choices. She now evaluates roles based on how they fit into her family life.
Despite being away from regular television, her fan base remains loyal. Viewers remember her fondly and hope for her comeback.
Impact on Indian Television
Pooja Joshi Arora contributed significantly to Indian television through memorable performances. Her portrayal of Varsha set standards for supporting characters.
She proved that supporting roles could be as impactful as lead characters. Varsha’s popularity sometimes rivaled the main protagonists.
Her natural acting style inspired many aspiring television actresses. She demonstrated that authenticity resonates more than over-dramatic performances.
YRKKH’s success partly attributed to strong supporting characters like Varsha. The ensemble cast created a believable family dynamic.
Pooja’s work showcased the importance of character development in long-running shows. She brought depth and consistency to her role.
Legacy in Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai
Pooja Joshi Arora’s contribution to “Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai” cannot be overstated. The show, which started in 2009, became a cultural phenomenon in India.
Her character Varsha was introduced as a pivotal supporting character. Varsha’s relationship with Akshara formed the emotional core of many storylines.
The character evolved beautifully over the years. From a young wife to a mother, Varsha’s journey paralleled many Indian women’s experiences.
Pooja brought authenticity to everyday situations portrayed on screen. Her expressions and dialogue delivery felt natural and relatable.
Many viewers connected with Varsha’s struggles and celebrations. The character became a mirror reflecting middle-class Indian family dynamics.
Pooja’s long association with the show created lasting memories. Even years after leaving, fans remember her fondly as the original Varsha.
The show’s creators praised her professionalism and dedication. She rarely missed shoots and maintained consistency in her performance.
Working Style and Professional Ethics
Colleagues describe Pooja Joshi Arora as a thorough professional. She always came prepared to the sets with lines memorized and scenes understood.
Her punctuality and discipline set examples for younger actors. Directors appreciated her ability to take direction and improvise when needed.
She maintained cordial relationships with the entire crew. From spot boys to directors, everyone respected her humble nature.
During long shooting schedules, she kept morale high with her cheerful disposition. Her positive energy was infectious on set.
She never let stardom affect her grounded personality. Even after achieving fame, she remained accessible and down-to-earth.
Pooja balanced professionalism with warmth. Co-stars often mentioned feeling comfortable working with her in emotional scenes.
Fashion and Style Evolution
Over the years, Pooja Joshi Arora’s fashion sense has evolved significantly. During her YRKKH days, she mostly wore traditional Indian attire on-screen.
Her character Varsha’s wardrobe consisted of elegant sarees and salwar kameez. Pooja carried these traditional outfits with grace and poise.
Off-screen, she experimented with contemporary western wear. Her Instagram showcases a mix of traditional and modern fashion choices.
For events and award functions, she preferred designer Indian ethnic wear. Her red carpet appearances always made fashion headlines.
As a mother, her style became more comfortable yet chic. She mastered the art of looking stylish while being practical.
Her maternity fashion during pregnancies received appreciation from followers. She proved that expecting mothers can be fashionable and comfortable simultaneously.
Pooja’s minimalist approach to accessories complements her features. She believes in letting natural beauty shine through subtle makeup.
Influence on Aspiring Actresses
Many young actresses cite Pooja Joshi Arora as an inspiration. Her journey from television debut to success motivates newcomers.
She proved that supporting roles can be as memorable as lead parts. Actors don’t need to be protagonists to leave lasting impressions.
Her ability to maintain work-life balance inspires working mothers. She demonstrated that women can excel in careers while nurturing families.
Aspiring actresses admire her grounded approach to fame. Despite popularity, she never lost touch with reality or became arrogant.
Her selective choice of projects teaches the importance of quality. She showed that taking breaks doesn’t end careers if talent exists.
Young actors appreciate her journey through different mediums. From television to web series, she remained relevant across platforms.
Behind the Scenes Stories
During YRKKH shooting, Pooja and Hina Khan became inseparable friends. Their off-screen friendship translated into amazing on-screen chemistry.
The duo often rehearsed scenes together during breaks. This extra effort made their sisterly bond look completely genuine.
Co-stars remember Pooja’s love for food on sets. She often shared homemade snacks with the entire crew.
During festival seasons, she organized small celebrations on set. These gestures created a family-like atmosphere during long schedules.
Pooja was known for her practical jokes and fun nature. She kept the environment light-hearted during intense shooting sequences.
Junior artists appreciated her respectful behavior toward everyone. She never displayed any star-like attitudes or tantrums.
Charity and Social Work
Though not highly publicized, Pooja Joshi Arora participates in charitable activities. She believes in giving back to society through various means.
She has supported causes related to children’s education. Pooja understands the importance of quality education in transforming lives.
Animal welfare is close to her heart, being a pet parent herself. She advocates for adopting street animals and providing them care.
During festivals, she distributes food and clothes to underprivileged communities. She prefers doing such work without media attention.
Pooja uses her social media platform to raise awareness about important issues. She occasionally highlights NGOs doing commendable work.
Her approach to charity is personal and heartfelt rather than publicity-driven. She believes in making genuine differences in people’s lives.
Relationship with Fans
Pooja Joshi Arora maintains a special bond with her fans. She regularly responds to comments and messages on social media.
Fans appreciate her accessibility and humble interactions. Unlike many celebrities, she doesn’t maintain distance from admirers.
During public appearances, she willingly poses for selfies with fans. Her warm smile and friendly nature make such interactions memorable.
She acknowledges fan art and tributes with genuine appreciation. Pooja often reposts fan-made content, giving them recognition.
On her birthday, she receives thousands of wishes from followers. She makes efforts to thank as many people as possible.
Her fan clubs across India actively support her endeavors. They celebrate her personal milestones with enthusiasm and love.
Life Lessons from Pooja’s Journey
Pooja Joshi Arora’s journey teaches valuable lessons about perseverance and priorities. Success requires dedication but shouldn’t come at the cost of family.
She demonstrated that it’s okay to take breaks for personal reasons. Career growth doesn’t always mean constant work without pauses.
Her story shows the importance of staying grounded despite fame. Humility and kindness matter more than stardom and popularity.
Pooja proved that supporting roles can be as fulfilling as lead parts. Every character contributes to storytelling in meaningful ways.
She taught that reinvention keeps careers fresh and relevant. Adapting to new mediums like web series shows professional growth.
Her balanced approach to life inspires many struggling to juggle multiple roles. Being a good mother and successful professional isn’t mutually exclusive.
Future Plans and Aspirations
While Pooja hasn’t announced specific future projects, fans anticipate her return. The industry and viewers would welcome her back warmly.
She might explore opportunities in OTT platforms more extensively. The digital space offers creative freedom and diverse roles.
Balancing motherhood with selective acting projects seems likely. Quality over quantity appears to be her mantra going forward.
She may consider producing or mentoring young talent. Her experience could benefit newcomers entering television industry.
There’s speculation about her launching a lifestyle or parenting blog. Her social media content already reflects such interests.
Some fans hope to see her in reality shows or celebrity appearances. Her genuine personality would shine in unscripted formats.
Whatever path she chooses, her loyal fan base will support her. Her talent and dedication ensure success in any venture.
Comparison with Contemporary Actresses
Pooja Joshi Arora’s career trajectory differs from many contemporary actresses. While some chased lead roles exclusively, she found success in supporting characters.
Her approach was more about meaningful work than screen time. This wisdom helped her create memorable impressions with limited appearances.
Unlike actresses who constantly jump between projects, Pooja was selective. She preferred being associated with quality shows for longer durations.
Her decision to prioritize family distinguishes her from peers. Many actresses delay personal life for career, but Pooja balanced both.
She maintained dignity without getting involved in controversies. Her clean image contrasts with sensational headline-grabbing tactics some use.
Pooja’s authentic social media presence sets her apart. She shares real life rather than curated perfect moments.
Impact of Social Media on Her Career
Social media has played a crucial role in keeping Pooja relevant. Despite being away from television, she maintains strong online presence.
Her Instagram followers have grown steadily over the years. Regular posts keep fans engaged and connected to her life.
Through social media, she controls her narrative directly. She can share updates without depending on media interpretations.
Brands approach her for collaborations based on social media influence. Her engaged audience makes her attractive for endorsements.
She uses platforms to showcase her personality beyond acting. Dance videos and family moments reveal different dimensions.
Social media allows her to receive instant feedback from fans. This direct communication strengthens her bond with supporters.
Health and Fitness Regime
Pooja Joshi Arora maintains her fitness through a balanced approach. She doesn’t follow extreme diets but believes in moderation.
Her vegetarian diet includes plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. She ensures adequate protein intake through pulses and dairy products.
Regular yoga sessions help her maintain flexibility and mental peace. She started practicing yoga during her first pregnancy.
Walking is her preferred form of cardio exercise. She often takes walks in her neighborhood with her dogs.
Post-pregnancy fitness was challenging but achievable through consistency. She advocates for realistic fitness goals for new mothers.
Adequate sleep and hydration are priorities in her daily routine. She believes beauty comes from within through healthy habits.
Memorable Dialogues and Scenes
Pooja delivered several memorable dialogues as Varsha in YRKKH. Her confrontation scenes with other family members were particularly powerful.
One iconic scene involved Varsha defending Akshara against family criticism. Her emotional delivery left viewers in tears.
Her comic timing in light-hearted family scenes brought laughter. The balance between drama and comedy showcased her versatility.
Scenes involving Varsha’s motherhood journey resonated deeply with audiences. Pooja’s own experience added authenticity to these moments.
Her chemistry in sisterly bonding scenes with Akshara became legendary. These moments defined the show’s emotional core.
Even today, fans share clips of her best performances online. These scenes continue to garner views and appreciation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Pooja Joshi Arora?
Pooja Joshi Arora is an Indian television actress famous for playing Varsha in “Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai.” She has appeared in several TV shows and web series throughout her career.
What is Pooja Joshi Arora’s age in 2026?
Pooja Joshi Arora was born on May 27, 1989, making her 36 years old as of 2026.
Is Pooja Joshi Arora married?
Yes, Pooja Joshi Arora is married to businessman Manish Arora. They tied the knot on November 25, 2015, and have been together for over 10 years.
How many children does Pooja Joshi Arora have?
Pooja Joshi Arora has two daughters. Her first daughter Riddhima was born in 2017, and she welcomed her second daughter on August 11, 2023.
What is Pooja Joshi Arora’s net worth?
Pooja Joshi Arora’s estimated net worth is approximately ₹4-5 crore as of 2026. Her earnings come from television shows, web series, and endorsements.
Which TV show made Pooja Joshi Arora famous?
“Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai” made Pooja Joshi Arora a household name. She played the role of Varsha, Akshara’s best friend and sister-in-law.
Who is Pooja Joshi Arora’s husband?
Manish Arora is Pooja Joshi Arora’s husband. He is a businessman from Akola who runs a printing press in Mumbai.
What awards has Pooja Joshi Arora won?
Pooja won the prestigious Telly Award for Best Actress in a Supporting Role for her performance in “Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai.”
Is Pooja Joshi Arora active on social media?
Yes, Pooja is very active on Instagram (@poojajoshiarorareal) with over 255K followers. She regularly shares family moments, throwback pictures, and personal updates.
What is Pooja Joshi Arora doing now in 2026?
As of 2026, Pooja Joshi Arora is taking a break from active acting to focus on raising her two daughters and managing her personal life.
Conclusion
Pooja Joshi Arora represents the perfect blend of talent, dedication, and family values in the Indian television industry.
From her breakthrough role as Varsha in “Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai” to her beautiful journey as a wife and mother, she has inspired countless fans across the country.
Her decision to prioritize family while maintaining professional achievements showcases her wisdom and balanced approach to life.
With two adorable daughters and a supportive husband by her side, Pooja continues to shine in her personal life even as fans eagerly await her return to the screen.
