MUMBAI: Pratyusha Banerjee was one of the most popular stars in the TV industry. She began her career with a supporting role in the show Rakt Sambandh, which was followed by playing the role of Vaani in Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai. 

She later starred in Balika Vadhu as badi Anandi by replacing Avika Gor and won millions of hearts with her performance. 

Following the success of the show, she had featured in the reality shows like Jhalak Dikhhla Ja, Bigg Boss 7 and Power Couple.

Pratyusha also appeared in shows like Hum Hain Na, Sasural Simar Ka and Gulmohar Grand. 

That's not all! She had also hosted a couple of episodes of Savdhan India. On April 1, 2016, she was found hanging in her Mumbai apartment; leaving her family, friends and admirers in shock. 

Today, on Pratyusha's birth anniversary, here's a look at how her Balika Vadhu co-stars mourned her untimely demise and what they spoke about their bond with the late actress. 

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As per a report, Sidharth Shukla once said that whenever she needed him, he would be just a call away and that she didn't have to hesitate before asking for help. He also said that he had lost a dear friend when he couldn't reach her.

Shashank Vyas, who shared maximum screen space with the late actress on Balika Vadhu, once opened up about their first meeting. He said, "She (Pratyusha) was telling me tu bahut tall hai, lamba hai, mamla jamega nahi. Usko bahut dil sei mann tha ki wahi Anandi bane kyuki Balika Vadhu ki woh bahut hi regular viewer rahi hogi. For the first time, I met her in the office only. Usne kafi grow kiya show ke andar. Uski growth maine apne aankhon sei dekhi hai.".

In an interview, Smita Bansal, who played Pratyusha's mother-in-law in Balika Vadhu, said that she was full of life. "She was so raw when she came into the industry. She was ready to experiment with things, take advice from senior actors. She was a lovely, lovely girl. She was very friendly, full of energy, and full of life.", said Smita. She added that she was extremely good for the show (Balika Vadhu) and did brilliantly well. 

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Credit: SpotboyE