'Balika Vadhu' completes 1,500 episodes

Popular TV show "Balika Vadhu", featuring Siddarth Shukla, Toral Rasputra and Shashank Vyas, completed a milestone run of 1,500 episodes.

The show, which went on air in July 2008, completed 1,500 episodes Thursday.

"It feels great to be a part of show which has always been a favourite among the viewers from the first day, and personally for me it's double celebration since I have completed 500 episodes with 'Balika Vadhu'," Siddarth, who plays the role of Shivraj Shekhar, said in a statement.

"I really hope that the show completes many more episodes and continues to garner love and support like always," he added.

"Balika Vadhu" followed the story of a child bride, Anandi, which was then essayed by Avika Gor, who was married to Jagdish Singh. It showcased the hardships of a child bride and then went on to take a leap of five years after which Pratyusha Banerjee portrayed the character.

The show took a second leap of three years during which Jagdish, played by Shashank Vyas, had become a doctor and even Anandi had finished her studies. The leap followed Jagdish divorcing Anandi.

The story after that is of Anandi's re-marriage to Shivraj Shekhar, played by Siddharth. After the marriage, Toral Rasputra was introduced as the new Anandi and the actress says the show has changed her life.

"It's really a proud moment for me to be part of a show which has not only changed my life, but is also striving at bringing about a change in the society," Toral said.

"I would really like to congratulate the entire team of 'Balika Vadhu' on completing 1,500 episodes and here's wishing that it completes 1,500 more episodes," she added.