Exclusive! Jeevika Tyagi: “I Shot for Reality Ranis Just a Year After Battling Postpartum Depression and a Mid-life Crisis”

Jeevika Tyagi, co-founder of the athleisure brand Aastey, gained significant recognition after appearing on Shark Tank India 3. With a background in British Culture and Architecture from Imperial College London, Jeevika has applied her global design perspective to building a brand known for its commitment to sustainability. At just 24, she won her first Startup of the Year award from Amazon Web Services (AWS), and Aastey has since earned accolades like Sustainable Venture of the Year. As a mother and business leader, she continues to inspire with her innovative leadership.

In an exciting new chapter, Jeevika Tyagi joined Discovery’s Reality Ranis of the Jungle as a contestant. In an exclusive conversation with The Reelstars, she opened up about her journey, challenges, and future plans.

Did you ever imagine participating in a reality show, let alone surviving in the jungle?

“Not in a million years! I haven’t really followed Hindi reality shows, but something about the timing made me say yes. My experience on Shark Tank India was misunderstood, and this was a chance for me to showcase a different side of myself.”

How was your experience on the show?

“It was miserable (laughs). Each day got tougher with the challenges, and I missed the comforts of home. At one point, I completely broke down. But looking back, I’m glad I did it. It made me physically and mentally stronger. When you can’t win with strength, you use your mind. This show taught me how to make decisions under pressure. I filmed it just a year after dealing with postpartum depression and a mid-life crisis, so my participation sends a strong message: any woman can survive anything.”

Was it difficult being away from your daughter, who was just a year old at the time?

“Absolutely. Society often thinks that a woman’s life is over after having a baby, but this show was an opportunity to prove otherwise. I had incredible support from my husband. Our daughter needed me, but he took care of her brilliantly. If you have an understanding partner, you can conquer anything.”

Would you consider participating in other reality shows like Bigg Boss?

“I’ve been offered reality shows before, and I’ve only followed the first two seasons of Bigg Boss because of Salman Khan! If I ever participate, I’ll assess the waters first. But after surviving Reality Ranis, I feel like I could take on any show.”

How do you stay active on social media despite your busy schedule?

“Today, it’s crucial to have a presence on social media, especially for your brand. But I don’t obsess over likes or comments. I focus on the positive and keep moving forward.”

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