Eva Grover to enter Jhansi Ki Rani

Zee's Jhansi Ki Rani continues to keep its audience glued even after the leap and the show is doing extremely well.


The latest is that, Eva Grover is set to enter Jhansi Ki Rani.


When contacted Eva, she confirmed the news saying, "Yes, I am shooting for this most popular show on TV now and it's an amazing cameo. As of now the character I am playing is mother of Manu aka Rani Laxmibai. She was dead while Manu was small. Now the track will show Manu witnessing her mother and Manu's mother will help Manu to get out of trouble. She will tell her who is what in industry."


Eva was last seen in Do Saheliyan. If her character in Jhansi Ki Rani gets a good response then it may get an extension.

Divorce Earns ‘Pavitra Rishta’ A TVR Of 7.6

What an irony that it is a break-up that has helped ‘Pavitra Rishta’ (Holy relation) bring joy to its makers? Zee TV and and Balaji Telefilms must be wondering why they didn’t think of Archana-Manav’s divorce before.

Last Monday’s episode where Archana and Manav divorce each other, has clocked a staggering TVR of 7.6 making it the undisputed top show for the TAM week 23 (May 30-June 5). In fact, ‘Pavitra Rishta’ occupies the top five spot now. At number six is Star Plus’ ‘Pratigya’ which registered a TVR of 5.5. The top positions are occupied by four Zee TV shows with ‘Agle Janam Mohe Bitiya Hi Kijo’ (5.3) and Colors’ ‘Uttaran’ (5.1) following close behind at the seventh and ninth spot respectively.

Throughout the week, ‘Pavitra Rishta’ maintained an average rating of 6.3 TVR – the only show to have an average TVR of over 5. Tuesday and Wednesday’s TVR stood at 6.1. There was a drop in the following two days with the show finishing with a TVR of 5.7 on Friday

The ‘Pavitra Rishta’ juggernaut, though didn’t change Zee TV’s position on the GRP ladder. The Essel Group owned channel didn’t gain a single GRP more than last week and stood firm at 249. The top positions remained intact, but both Star Plus and Colors lost 19 and 24 GRPs to finish at 317 and 271 respectively.

Colors must have expected more from ‘Balika Vadhu’, where Anandi and Jagdish were nearly separated after Massa had all but married off her grandson to a new bride, last week. However, this Sphere Origin show could only muster a TVR of 4.5. Star Plus has just one show at the top, but the collective result of all its shows ensured that it stayed at number one.

In non-fiction, Zee TV’s DID ‘L’il Masters’ continues to be top with a TVR of 4.5 After a good opening where it crossed 4, Colors ‘Chak Dhoom Dhoom’ (2.7) has dropped behind both ‘L’il Masters’ and ‘Zara Nachke Dikha 2’ (2.9). ‘Indian Idol’s’ TRPs dropped to 2, while ‘Desi Girl’ (1.7) continues to be the top rated show on Imagine TV.

‘Uttaran’ Not Being Stretched” – Tina Dutta

The audience is confused about the way the plot in ‘Uttaran’ is unraveling. Is the track going off beat just to create drama or is it abiding by its title ‘Uttaran’?

We spoke to Tina Dutta on this and she tried to give a reasonable clarification. “Uttaran is a story about how things are handed down from one person to another. While in childhood, it was Tapasya who would give her things to Ichcha , the roles have changed now. Tapasya receives Veer as ‘Uttaran’ and the story unfolds. ‘Uttaran’ is not being stretched at all. Every story needs to have some drama and masala in it, to create a high point; otherwise the audience will just lose interest. We are still following the title but from a different angle”

It is not very uncommon on television to see the shows going off track just to create drama in order to raise the TRPs. We thought a clarification is required when we felt that ‘Uttaran’ was going the same way. It would help to satisfy its viewers too. Well as per Tina, the show is very much on the track and going by the basic idea, but we think otherwise. Let’s wait and see what the viewers have to say!

“People Said Don’t Be Too Attached To The Role”-Ulka Gupta

Ulka Gupta, the little protagonist of Zee TV’s ‘Jhansi Ki Rani’ seemed very sad while talking to us as she has to make an exit from the show. This is required as the show will be taking a leap. Even though the girl had been aware about the leap ever since she joined the show, she couldn’t control her emotions on the last day of her shoot and burst out tears.

“I was aware about the leap in the show since day one and knew that I would have to say good bye to it. But as I started shooting, it became my part of life, the sets, my make up room, my horse and everybody else in it. I started thinking that my role would continue till the end of the show. But the news of the show taking a leap proved to be bad news for me.” says Ulka sadly.

Ulka goes on, “All the people around me used to advise me not to get too attached to the role as I have to leave the character at some point of time or the other. It will be tougher to deal with if I do so. That’s exactly what happened! On the last day of my shoot, I had made up my mind not to make it obvious but as soon as the time drew to a close, I cut the cake and started crying. But I realized the truth as soon as I reached home and quietened down.”

Well we wish you all the best for you career ahead and hope to see you back soon again!

'I was confident of getting a lead role' - Aarti Singh

Aarti Singh who was last seen in Grihasti as one of the sisters is finally back on television, with a lead role in Shristi Arya's COLORS show Thoda Hai Bas Thode Ki Zaroorat Hai.

Here is Aarti Singh in conversation about her new role, the reaction of her family members and much more..

Tell us about your character?
I play the bahu Mugdha, she loves her family a lot. She is shown to be the sacrificing lady, and can do anything for her family, to keep them united.

How did you bag this role?
I gave three auditions after which I got a call. Goldie Behl was there and the only tension they had was whether I would be able to manage the lingo of Marathi, as I did not know the language. I could see the reaction on their faces when I was reading the Marathi lines. I had a difficulty in adjusting for the first 3-4 days, but my co-actors and the production team helped me and motivated me a lot.

So how much of a homework did you do for this show?
I didn't do any homework as such. All my family members speak Marathi very well, it's only me who can't speak. I took help from all of them, who conversed with me only in Marathi from then.

How are Mugdha and Aarti different?
Both of them are not much different. Aarti is a very emotional person just like Mugdha is. I feel Aarti cannot sacrifice as much as Mugdha does, but the situations they come from are different. For both, family matters a lot.

You were last seen in Grihasti, and after that you are coming back after a long break?
When I was doing Grihasti I had put on lots of weight. I worked on it and had a regimented routine when it came to diet and exercise. I gave about 40-50 auditions in one year. I got lots of offers for a parallel lead but I wanted to play the main lead, and was confident that it would come to me one day (smiles).

You are an Urban girl, how difficult is it to wear saree whole day while shooting?
The only problem is that I feel very hot, other wise everything is fine. I am a very comfortable and adjustable person, I don't have any problem. I love to wear salwar kameez, but sarees is not a problem at all for me.

Your whole family is into in this industry, what kind of relationship you share with them?
We share a nice relationship, everybody in the family is happy. When Govindaji saw my promo, he was very happy because I was extremely tense regarding my work. He was very happy to see my saree, my look and he got emotional.

What about Ragini Khanna?
Yes she is also happy. People say there is a competition because her show is also at 7.30PM. But it's not true, her show audience is different and our show audience is different.

And what about Krushna Abhishek?
Krushna is my elder brother, my best friend and my father. I have got a three in one relationship with him. He is very happy and when yesterday he saw my photo he called me up and he is so happy. The only advice he gives me now is that 'Moti Mat hona ab'.

As you say you share a tremendous relationship with all in your family. What kind of relation do you share with Kashmera?
Kashmera and I gel very well; she is a very straight forward person. If she doesn't like a person she will tell him on the face. She is not at all diplomatic. Yes initially there were lot of differences between me and Kashmera, but my bhai loves her a lot and they are happy together. My brother's happiness is important for me.

Are you seeing someone?
No and if I see someone, I won't declare unless I am getting married to that guy. I belong to a family where I have to keep my dignity.

You belong to a family where comedy is core, will you like to try this genre?
I am scared of comedy. Chi Chi Mama was excellent and Krushna followed him, and now if I do it they will definitely say that I am bad in comedy. I am scared of this but definitely I would love to try it once. I would love to try one episode of Comedy Circus or any comedy show on COLORS.

Star Plus takes over to ruby red from prior blue logo

Star Plus which tags itself as an inseparable part of each-other's family; on the eve of completing 10 glorious years in Hindi television and with a view to deepen it's bond with the viewers the channel has decided to feature a refreshed Star Plus logo, the Ruby Star and a new perspective.

On this significant occasion, Uday Shankar, CEO Star India Pvt. Ltd said, "It gives me pleasure to announce the refreshed brand for our flagship channel. India has always been a land of new thinking so we drive to revive the convention through refreshed brand promise 'Rishta Wahi, Soch Nayi' (old relationship, new thinking). We are committed to entertain our viewers with content that propels them in a new direction."

The new logo ruby star which beckons viewers to enter the crystal world of Star Plus is scheduled to debut on June 13th with the Star Parivar Awards 2010.

Big 'B' to host KBC 4 ??

After highlighting many big names from Bollywood industry including Aamir Khan to host Kaun Banega Crorepati season 4, it seems as if the production house Synergy has summed down again to the legendary actor and persona Amitabh Bachchan who indeed holds the credit for making the season 1 and 2 a great success.

Though the core team has sorted out to retain their original host of the show but may be they couldn't do the same with the channel.

A little birdie informed us that, "The chances of Amitabh Bachchan hosting the upcoming season of KBC seems to be taking a practical turn. But there is a shift of channel the upcoming season would be telecasted on Sony unlike the past on Star Plus."

We even messaged Ajay Bhalwankar, head of Sony TV and Anita Kaul Basu, Managing Director of Synergy but couldn't receive a reply.

'It was my choice to quit the show'- Rati Pandey

The sweet, cute, chirpy character of Indian television and Miley Jab Hum Tum fame of Star One, Nupur speaks to her fans being herself, expressing her 2 years journey on the show, the remorse on her exit and much more exclusively with us...

How has been your journey in MJHT ?
The entire journey has been awesome. The experience that I have gained from this show has been outstanding. The character of Nupur was like a dream role for me because it was more of like me. The role was very entertaining. Though I was a bit apprehensive about the role my producer incited a lot of confidence in me.

How much would you miss the sets of MJHT?
Definitely miss the sets but not that much because I haven't left the sets in anger instead I have moved ahead gaining lot of knowledge and I'm still a learner so I would miss very sweet memories of the show but don't wish to get carried away in emotions.

How much can you relate to the lively,chirpy character of Nupur?
Not much because Nupur as a character was very confident, bubbly where her phrases weren't taken seriously so I'm very thankful to the creative's that they gave me such scenes where I could prove the strength in my character through different transitions and shades at regular intervals.
So I think Rati Pandey as a person is also equally confident as Nupur.

How much would you miss your on screen partner Mayank aka Arjun Bijlani?
As I said I won't miss any one that much because all memories are cherished. It's like I have done my job and now I'm all calm and relaxed.
So I would like to convey this to my fans too don't be upset just be practical and understand that Nupur's character had just that much to serve and it was also what the story demanded.
Even though we actors were told that none of the characters would die but before shooting the accident scene I was informed that my character will die. It was equally shocking news for me too but I was anyways planning to leave the show and it would have been more shocking and heart throbbing news if I would have walked out. But it was totally creative's as well as my decision and I got a very good opportunity to walk off. I found it to be the safest time to go so I approached my creative's and said if one character has to die let that be me.

But why in first place you wanted to leave the no.1 show on television?
I would say that I only think about myself so if I think that I had that caliber, that potential and I'm not getting an opportunity to showcase it then better quit. For me everything had been extracted from Nupur's character and how much could it be exaggerated.
I tried interacting with the creative's to inform them that I was a bit uncomfortable enacting certain tracks and I feel they have taken the right decision. And I feel this is the best turning point till now.

But along with you the other three characters are also long going so why just you very evicted?
I truly accept that but they wanted to kill the most popular character and by god's grace I have received immense popularity through this show and I'm thankful that all you people loved me so much. And I want all my fans to smile because it just the character that has died not Rati Pandey. And I bet you no one can replace Nupur and let her be as a legend.
And I'm confident that in my future projects I'll surely prove myself and beat the character of Nupur as well. I want you to remember Nupur but move on with Rati.

Are you satisfied with the present track of MJHT?
(laughs) Frankly after my last episode on the show I haven't followed it that much I have just watched 2-3 episode of season 2. I would just like to wish all the luck to the new comers and hope this show gets more successful.
I do not like the present track much but I'm happy that season 2 is happening because of Nupur. And from the audience point of view though the TRP's have gone up but I feel something missing in the track.

So do you look forward for a comeback?
I can't predict about that because the future is very uncertain.

Fan's have been very hurt by the creative's decision so what's your take on it?
I know the fans have been hurt it was shocking news. When I saw the episode and even while enacting it I had tears in my eyes. The last shot when I look towards Mayank in red saree it was a one take shot and my director and close friend Ravi's eyes also got wet. But I don't want my fans to get aggressive.

The channel had also conducted some voting poll so what's your take on it?
I have never believed in voting polls I have heard about it but haven't visited the website personally. Still I feel voting systems are all myth at the end of the day personal luck and hard work is what works.

Fans even feel that channel has manipulated the votes?
As per my knowledge they never plan anything as such so I can't comment anything on that but even if they have manipulated the voting system then I apologies on their behalf. But I don't think audience should have gone for this voting poll.
But I'm thankful to all my fans who voted for me and made me the most popular character but believe me even if Nupur would have been alive there would have been no thrill in season 2.

Fans feel that Nupur was the charm of the show and as you are not part of the show they won't view it anymore?
Firstly thanks for the compliment and secondly it's completely audience decision to watch it or not. But I would say give your good wishes to new comers also because I too was new comer once.

There was even a rumor that the creative scripted your exit because of your dictating terms on sets?
(smiles) if it's so then I would like to wish all the luck to the person who has spread this rumor as I feel he/she is more concerned about the show.

What's your take on your exit from the show?
I'm very happy and convinced and truly respect the creative's and channels decision. I didn't want to stretch Nupur's character further than this it has been 2 years though it was a pleasure I feel it was high time. And I feel it is for the betterment of myself too.

We had a word with your co-actors they too are quite upset with your exit so what's the message for them?
I have gone through 'n' number of mails and after going through all of them I feel I have the craziest fan and I have even received abusive mails so it's a request to my fans that please don't get so aggressive.
And for my co-stars I would say it's my personal and professional life and the decision has been taken under mutual understanding and there's no other reason apart from it.

Did you ever imagine that fans would show such kind of remorse for you?
I had never imagined that my fans would use such harsh language on my exit and my character is appreciated so much. And I get touched when my fans call my 'Dii' (sister) like I have just become an idol for them so please stand by me at this juncture too.

What was the reaction of your family members?
I have always treated them as my audience and never disclosed my storyline to them so they were equally shocked when they saw the last episode and my mother was very upset because no parent could even imagine their child's death but they believe in me and my talent and are all supportive.

So what's next now?
As of now I'm very chilled and relaxed and I'm going abroad with my family for a month's break and I don't wish to take any hasty decision. And I have been getting lots of offers from the time of MJHT but in future I would like to work in show which would be more individualistic and doesn't portray too many leads (smiles) so that I can portray my caliber again.

Message to fans.
I'm really touched and overwhelmed by the fact that audiences have appreciated Rati Pandey as much as they have appreciated my character of Nupur. You have understood me as a person so I feel I have got intelligent group of fans. So thank you so much for loving me so much and always stand by me because you are my strength.

Kunal Verma Irked by Link-Up Reports

Kunal Verma and Pooja Bose are seeing each other. For long, it has been speculated. Some even joked (April Fool) that the two have secretly gotten married in Panchgani. Amidst these incessant speculative reports, the duo has always maintained that they are friends. Bose clarified this to us earlier. It’s now Verma who is seconding Bose’s claim. In fact, the actor, who usually is very reticent, is now tired of such gossip.

“There’s a prominent entertainment newspaper which wrote all these lies about my personal life. I’ve had enough of such gossip. Time and again, the media keeps coming up with such stories, but as always, there’s no truth in it,” said Verma.

Adding to that, he says, “Look, you develop a bond with your colleagues while shooting together. After all, most of the time you see the same faces. It’s not just with Pooja but also with my other colleagues from ‘Tujh Sangh Preet Lagayi Sajna’. I’m not the one to hide anything about my personal life. If at all, there’s a girl in my life, I will surely come and disclose it to the whole world. Presently, I’m solely concentrating on my career.”

Guess, it’s high time we (media) take the actor’s word and assume that he’s indeed very much single and eligible too. Hey girls, what you’re waiting for?

'Enacting comedy is like playing a song' - Divyanka Tripathi

Divyanka Tripathi who started her journey in television with Zee TV's Banoo Main Teri Dulhann makes a hilarious comeback with SAB TV's Mrs. & Mr. Sharma Allahabad wale.

Here is Divyanka in an exclusive conversation with us as she shares all her thrilling instances, the hard efforts she has put in and her heartfelt contentment on playing Mrs. Rashmi Sharma..

How's the feeling of enacting the character of Mrs. Sharma?
Mrs. Sharma is definitely a difficult character for me to enact because I'm not all that hilarious and funny in my real life. You will not find me cracking jokes very often; so this element took a bit more time to sink in, but at the same time it's an enjoyable experience.

Also I was a bit apprehensive about the role because it was exactly opposite to my previous character. Earlier I used to return home completely exhausted after a whole day's shoot, but now with the comic atmosphere on sets I do not feel the work trauma anymore.

What kind of response have you been receiving just through the promotional advertisements of the serial?
The response has been very positive, though I haven't received many on a personal front. However, I have heard through my parents and native people in Bhopal that I am being liked. My father runs a medical store in Bhopal and the people who know me as his daughter share their responses with them.

Also my recent personal encounter was at Haji Ali where a woman recognized me to be a television actress. The best part was that she remembered the name of my previous serial, but identified me with my present role of Mrs. Sharma. So I was amazed to know that audience have already started relating to me as Mrs. Sharma. What more can an actor demand for!

How easy or difficult was it for you to do comedy after Banoo Main Teri Dulhann?
I won't regard it to be simple or difficult because once a person understands the concept and his/her character, things start falling in place. The one aspect which makes comedy stand out from the regular drama shows, is that the actor cannot cut and elaborate a dialogue depending on one's convenience when it comes to comedy. Performing comedy is like playing a song; if you miss a single tune the entire song gets spoilt. So in comedy detailing with timing plays a very important role.

How much more effort did you need to put towards this role?
Yes of course comedy demands for a constant high energy in every shot because I have to put in equal amount of humour in my supporting dialogues or punches too. It's an amazing experience as it gives me a feel of doing a stage performance.

How much homework did you do to enhance the character presentation?
Firstly I started observing the people of Allahabad. I did not have a big problem with dialect as I am good in Hindi; I had to just make few modifications here and there. And we also worked on the usage of some sweet words like Mr. Sharma is a very 'my dear person'. Then I started observing my local family women to inherit the innocence and simplicity in the character.

At the look test how did you feel about the entire attire of the character?
I loved it a lot and didn't have to work much myself as far as the look is concerned. I was very much happy with this long sleeved blouse, the big red flower in my hair and I any ways love to put Sindoor on my forehead. So the look was just perfect for me.

Apart from the character do you think such simple and innocent women do exist in real life in the present scenario?
Finding such women in Mumbai could be a bit difficult, but in local places like my native place Madhya Pradesh people are still that simple and innocent. It comes very easily to them. Basically the nature of a person depends on the surroundings in which he/she resides; so in Mumbai one has to be smart and fast in their work, so things differ.

As you said you too hail from a small town so have you met a character similar to Mrs. Sharma in real life?
No, I haven't met someone like her because people around me miss that fun element in them. They do carry certain nuances of Mrs. Sharma but I had nobody from whom I could take a leaf.

Neha Saxena in Balaji Telefilms' Tere Liye..

Star Plus' Tere Liye, produced by Balaji Telefilms is going to be the next biggie for the channel when it comes to fiction.

As we already know, Harshad Chopra and Rajat Tokas have been finalized to play the leads. Shakktii Aroraa who was last seen in Agle Janam Mohe Bitiya Hi Kijo will play a pivotal role.

The latest is that Neha Saxena who impressed one and all as Dhani in Star Plus' Sajan Ghar Jaana Hain (till the time she was replaced by Barkha Bisht), has been finalized to play the parallel lead in Tere Liye.

According to our source, "Ekta Kapoor personally liked Neha Saxena a lot, and Ekta was the one who wanted Neha in the show. Neha will play the girl opposite Rajat Tokas".

When contacted, Neha Saxena confirmed that she is part of the show, but refused to talk more than this.

Geetanjali Tikekar and Nikhil Arya will also be essaying important roles in the show. Noted actor Supriya Shukla will also be seen in the show.

The promo of the show featuring the kids is on air at the moment. The show is expected to take a leap after the initial 20-30 episodes.

Pankit Thakker in Imagine's Rakt Sambandh..

Pankit Thakker is a happy man these days, after being nominated for the Best Comic Role in the Popular category at the Gold Awards to be held in Mumbai this time!!

Well, the actor is elated for another reason too, as he has bagged a meaty role in Imagine's upcoming show, produced by UTV Telly Talkies, titled Rakt Sambandh.

According to our source, "Pankit Thakker will be one of the leads in the multi-cast show. He is the guy opposite Sonali Nikam, who happens to be the third sister. His is a performance oriented role, which he has never attempted before".

As per our source, the role was earlier to be essayed by Prashant Chawla, but now it will be Pankit donning the character.

When contacted, confirmed the news and said, "Yes, I am part of Imagine's Rakt Sambhandh. It is a challenging role, and this is all that I can say at this moment".

The promo of the show featuring the five sisters Bhairavi Gupte, Sayantani Ghosh, Sonali Nikam, Gungun Uprari and Sriti Jha along with their father, to be played by South actor Kitty has been shot near Satara. The show has gone on floors yesterday.

The promo is expected to hit the screens very soon.

Newly weds, Romit Raj and Tina in Ghar Ghar Mein..

The newly weds, Romit Raj and Tina Kakkar will appear on television for the first time in Zee TV's Ghar Ghar Mein, which will provide a sneak-peak into the couple's life!!

Romit and Tina have already shot for the episode, and it will be aired soon.

When contacted, Romit said, "It was great fun to be part of the episode with Tina. We had a great time with the entire team of Ghar Ghar Mein. We talked about the manner in which we met, got married and about the memorable moments in our life so far. On the whole, it was a superb experience. We played games like Narial pani. We were accompanied by my close friend Hemant Thatte".

Ask him about Tina's first experience before the camera, and he said "She was very comfortable, and it never seemed that she was facing the camera for the first time (smiles)".

The couple got married in Pune on March 28th. The episode will be aired very soon.

Rohit Purohit gets a much-needed break

Rohit Purohit aka Aryaman of COLORS' Aise Karo Naa Vidaa is a happy man as he is taking a much-needed break after one and half years. The story in the show revolves around the love track between Reva (Aastha Chaudhary) and Yash (Anas Rashid), and this has given room for the character of Aryaman to take the back seat.

When contacted, Rohit Purohit told us, "I will not be there for the next 10-15 episodes. I am going on a break after one and half years. I have planned lots of things in this break, and am eagerly looking forward to it".

The first in the list of priorities is of course to go to Jaipur and meet his family. "Meeting my family is the first thing that I will be doing. I plan to join fight classes, dance classes etc", he states.

Before signing off, Rohit asserts, "I will be back soon in Aise Karo Naa Vidaa".

Dutta marries Nakusha in style..

It's a typical filmy shaadi of a gangster in COLORS' Laagi Tujhse Lagan, produced by Playtime Creations, as Dutta Bhau (Mishal Raheja) gets wedded to the dark beauty Nakusha (Mahhi Vij).

We have already seen Nakusha confessing her love to Bhau, and we wait with bathed breath to know how Dutta reacts to this. Well, Dutta the gangster decides to torture Nakusha by marrying her in the worst way possible.

According to our source, "Dutta is shocked to know that Nakku is in love with him. He in a drunken state decides to teach Nakku a lesson of a lifetime. With a bottle of alcohol in one hand and a gun on the other, he drags Nakusha to the mandap, which was decorated for his and Supriya's marriage. He instructs the Pandit to chant the mantra and threatens Nakku at gunpoint to follow his commands. An unbelievable Nakusha doesn't understand the situation and follows her master. Dutta lights the havan with alcohol and forcefully marries Nakusha!. He puts sindoor on her maang, and in typical Dutta style takes off his chain and puts it as mangalsutra on Nakku".

This scene was shot under the close watch of Producer Paresh Rawal who wanted to portray this wedding as a unique one, especially because it was the wedding of a gangster.

The dramatic wedding sequence will be aired in tonight's episode.

Mata Ki Chowki in 12/24 Karol Bagh; Richa Sharma to perform

Zee TV and Sunshine Productions' 12/24 Karol Bagh will soon have a Special Episode that will see the Sethi family performing Mata Ki Chowki.

This episode will be aired this Wednesday, wherein the very popular playback singer Richa Sharma will be seen singing praises of the Mata.

According to our source, "Richa Sharma will perform at the Mata ki Chowki in Karol Bagh. This is the second time that the Sethi family will be organizing a Mata Ki Chowki. There will be many twists that will happen in the episode. One of the high points that will be seen is that Nakul's bad intentions will be revealed".

When contacted, Producer Sudhir Sharma confirmed the news and said, "Yes, we are doing a Mata Ki Chowki and Richa Sharma who has sung many popular songs in Bollywood will be performing in the event. She will sing a Special Mata Bhajan too for the episode".

Richa Sharma's recent number Sajda from My Name is Khan won her lot of acclaim.

Sarvagunn Sampanna will raise questions related to culture-Ekta Kapoor

Ekta Kapoor, the Czarina of Television is back with an array of new fiction shows, of which the first in the line is the tale of Swara, a Lavni based dancer who possesses all the good qualities that a perfect bride can have, but still faces problems from the society who refuse to look beyond her art form and accept her to be Sarvagunn Sampanna.

Here is Ekta Kapoor as she talks of her new Imagine show, Sarvagunn Sampanna.

What was the idea behind the concept of Sarvagunn Sampanna?
Actually I was looking for a concept that has a background which is culturally rich, at the same time talks of certain disrespectful attributes prevalent in the society. Basically I was looking for a show based on background versus character, like the recent Marathi movie 'Natrang'. The entire credit for this concept of Lavani goes to my Creative Head Prashant Bhatt.

This is your second show after Pavitra Rishta based on Marathi cultural background, so what's your take on it?
Yes, Pavitra Rishta is doing good. So I thought of another project based on the same base. I feel Maharashtra is a state which has so much lifestyle variation within one culture. For instance lifestyle of a middle class in all respects differs from that person living in a village, so this is an attempt to portray the life of a rural cultural family.

Along with the ongoing shows, you have so many new shows lined up. How do you look at it?
I would say that leaves me with no time to exercise (smiles).

So how do you plan to strategize the different concepts of your upcoming shows?
See that is what needs to be worked out now. I'm planning to space out all the serials systematically, so that no serial feels left out at any point of time. We work for the audience with full dedication, so don't want the purpose to be defeated.

What do you think would be the USP of Sarvagunn Sampanna?
I feel Sarvagunn Sampanna will raise those questions which have never been raised by a layman suffering the trauma as this. Even today dance as an art form is looked down in some parts of the country, so this serial would raise such questions attached to the culture and will also try to detach the individual personality of a person from his/her background.

So the message and USP of the show would be to inculcate questions related to the concept of a perfect bride in society.

Why did you choose Pooja Bose as your lead again?
Basically we were looking for a face that has some facial structure resembling to those belonging to that particular cultural belt. We auditioned thousands of people for the same but then when Pooja came in for the look test, we found her perfect for the role. Above all, she is a Bharatnatyam dancer, so it gets easier for her to pick the Lavani form of dance faster.

Shakktii Aroraa now joins Harshad in the 'Tere Liye' team..

The list of new serials to be launched post IPL seems like a never ending rope, and so is Balaji Telefilms, in the quest of giving the audience yet another show on Star Plus, Tere Liye.

TellyBuzz had recently reported that Harshad Chopra has been finalized to play the lead in the show, and playing his younger version is Devarsh Thakkar. Joining the cast now will be Shakktii Aroraa who has almost been finalized to play a pivotal role in the show.

According to our source, "Shakktii Aroraa who was recently seen essaying a negative role in Zee TV's Agle Janam Mohe Bitiya Hi Kijo has been finalized to essay a meaty role".

The story will revolve around three brothers, and Shakktii is expected to play one of the brothers.

When contacted, Shakktii Aroraa refused to comment. He essayed the role of Mukul in Zee's Agle Janam.

The production house plans to start shoot from May 16th, but all depends on the finalization of the rest of the cast. The female lead for the show has not been finalized yet.

Kritika working extra hard for Zara…

All the contestants of ‘Zara Nachke Dikha’ are geared up to set the stage on fire with their sizzling moves. But along with this burning desire, there is that fear of getting eliminated that is constantly on their minds. Kritika Kamra shares similar feelings.

“I am trying very hard and rehearsing day and night for the show as our second technical will held today and final shoot for 3rd episode will be completed tomorrow,” says an exhausted Kamra.

She told that performing in a reality show is not an easy job and requires lot of energy. She added that the audience will only see their performance and that they won’t know at what hour of day was it being recorded so one needs to show his/her vigor even if shoot is happening at odd hours.

“Its just the start and I am already feeling tired, let’s see how far I go in the race and how much the audience likes me and my dance,” signs off Kritika.

Well, we wish her and the entire ‘Zara Nachke Dikha’ crew all the best .

Surprise! Sarvagunn Sampann to air at 7.00 pm

For over a decade, Balaji Telefilms has achieved prime time loyalty. As a premier production house, Balaji has seldom settled for any other slot.

Over the last fortnight, the industry has been guessing the time slot for their new show, Sarvagunn Sampann, on Imagine. It was widely speculated that Imagine will have to bump off one of its existing shows to make way for Sarvagunn Sampann. However, the other shows can breathe easy as Balaji, surprisingly, has opted for the 7.00 pm slot.

“Sarvagunn Sampann will launch on 10th May and will air at 7.00 pm. It wasn’t an easy decision for either the channel or the production house. In the end, one had to settle with it. New shows are expected but so far there’s been no decision on which show to axe. In the given circumstances, the 7.00 pm slot was vacant, thus, Sarvagunn Sampann had to be accommodated there,” said a channel insider.

Meanwhile, speculation over Pooja Bose’s future in the show now appears to be a publicity stunt.

An actor from the show informs, “Pooja Bose has been shooting with us daily. I don’t think she’s being replaced. We’ll be leaving soon for Kolhapur, too.”

“Bandini reminds me of Kyunki” — Sumeet Sachdev

Sachdev, who managed quite a fan following as Gomzi, or Gautam, in ‘Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi’, saw one of his shows, ‘Pyaar Ka Bandhan’, going off air this week. And with that Sumeet has now made an entry in ‘Bandini’ as Rudr, a close friend of Sarang’s. But it seems being on the sets of ‘Bandini’ is taking him on a trip into memory lane.

In a casual chat with us, the actor says, “We usually did individual shoots for ‘Pyaar Ka Bandhan’, but shooting for ‘Bandini’ is a lot like ‘Kyunki…’ where there were a lot of characters and all. Also, I have worked with Ronit earlier and we share a good rapport. There is a lot of energy on the sets as there are all youngsters.” He adds, laughing, “And I simply love wearing dhotis. I think I’m going to buy a couple of them soon.”

We found that Sumeet’s character in ‘Bandini’ has some gray shades, and when asked whether Rudr shares any similarities with Gautam, he says, "I wouldn’t say that. Gomzi was basically a spoilt brat but was not evil at heart. It was the circumstances and upbringing that made him what the kind of person he was. On the other hand, Rudr is caught in an obsession for Dharamraj Mahiyavanshi’s wife and because she keeps insulting him, it indirectly adds fuel to the fire. Also, he is from a city background and does not see the limitations of village culture.

Ratan Rajput in Debt

It is generally believed that actors lead a luxurious life. But that’s not true in the case of Ratan Rajput. Rajput better known as Laali of ‘Agle Janam Mohe Bitiya Hi Kijo’ on Zee TV has been borrowing money from her cousin to make her ends meet.

Before you jump to any conclusions, let us inform you that Rajput is not broke due to non payment from her production or suffering a loss in a bad investment; she has just lost her ATM card and is unable to pull money from her account.

A source informs us that Rajput lost her ATM card sometime back and has since been asking her cousin for money. This is not the first time that she has lost her ATM card; she had lost it once before too, but was lucky to find it then.

We contacted Rajput and she said, “Yes, I have been like a beggar asking for money from my cousin. Thank God for her!”

She added that she will go to the bank as soon as possible to fulfill all the formalities of getting a new ATM card and get rid of all the debts on her. "But I need a day off from shoot first!", says the busy actress.

We hear you, Ratan. We hope that you get a new ATM card soon, and don’t lose it anymore!

Pavitra Rishta, DID, propel Zee to No. 2 spot

The GEC warfare was mainly restricted to Star Plus and Colors, but the Indian Premier League has restored parity, thereby enabling other key players to up their ante. Cashing in on this is Zee TV, which has pushed Colors aside to reclaim the second spot.

Taking the charge for Zee TV are ‘Pavitra Rishta’ and ‘Dance India Dance 2′, especially the grand finale. The two shows clocked in a TVR of 5.7 and 5 respectively. While the former was the number two rated show, the latter came in tied at fifth with Star Plus’ Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai. Zee TV’s ‘Jhansi Ki Rani’ and ‘Agle Janam Mohe Bitiya Hi Kijo’ occupied the eighth and ninth spot, respectively, for Week 17 (18-24 April).

Leading the pack once again is Star Plus with 298 GRPs followed by Zee TV (284) and Colors (276). Interestingly, Zee trailed Colors by just one GRP in the previous week, but this time it has gained 16 GRPs to Colors’ 7. Star Plus lost 19 GRPs but maintained its numero uno position.

Coming to the IPL, the first semifinal between Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bangalore on 21 April fetched a TVR of 7.4 while the second semifinal featuring Chennai Super Kings and Deccan Chargers drew TVR of 5.8 across the country.

The rating of the IPL final will come next week but the Hindi GECs will now breathe easy as the IPL storm is over.

Sriti Jha bags the lead role; Naman Shaw in Rakt Sambandh..

Imagine and UTV Telly Talkies' upcoming show, Rakt Sambandh which talks about the blood ties of the five sisters even after they have moved towards their individual lives has finally found its female lead in Sriti Jha.

There were reports that Sriti Jha was the first option to play the role of the youngest sister. She was also the channel's favorite to play the role. However, the channel and production house were looking for other options, and according to the reports, Panchi Bora of Kayamath fame was also considered.

The latest on this is that, Sriti Jha has finally bagged the role, and has also signed the contract papers. Sachin Chabra will play the guy opposite her. The girl will also have another guy in her life, for which Naman Shaw has been finalized.

According to our source, "Sriti Jha who is presently seen in Imagine's Jyoti has been finalized for the youngest sister's role. Naman Shaw and Sachin Chabra will be playing the guys opposite her".

When contacted, Sriti Jha confirmed that she has taken up the show, but refused to divulge anything more than that.

We tried calling Naman Shaw, but he remained unavailable.

Naman Shaw presently plays the protagonist Ajinkya in Star One's Ssshhh Phir Koi Hai. Ssshhh Phir Koi Hai is expected to end in mid May.

Sony's Comedy Circus Maha Sangram gets its winning jodi..

Just as all viewers thought that the popular pair of Krushna Abhishek and Sudesh Lahiri was going to be declared winners in Sony's Comedy Circus Maha Sangram, the speculations have gone wrong.

Yes, you have heard it right, and it is Swapnil Joshi and VIP who have emerged victorious in the Grand Finale of the show.

According to our source, "Salim and Suleiman were the celebrity judges for the finale. Swapnil and VIP rendered a fabulous performance which was the biggest highpoint of the episode. Salim performed too with Swapnil and Bharti Singh, and it was a promotional act for Indian Idol 5. Krushna and Sudesh were the runners-up while Saloni Daini – Rajiv Thakur – Rashmi Desai was the second runners-up team".

The Grand Finale of Comedy Circus Maha Sangram will be aired on May 8th, Saturday.

Zee TV's Jhansi Ki Rani to take a leap in mid May..

Zee T and Contiloe Telefilms' Jhansi Ki Rani is all geared up for a leap sometime in mid May. The rating of the show has been on a rise, and the channel and production house feel that this is the right time to go for the much-awaited leap.

They were to take the leap after the initial 30 episodes, to make way for the older Rani Lakshmi Bai to be at the helm of things. However, Ulka Gupta's portrayal of Mannu was received very well by the audience, which resulted in high ratings. So the channel and production house had decided to delay the leap by few months.

A little birdie tells us, "The show is doing extremely well now, and we are very much over the 4+ mark in ratings. However, the leap has to come some day or the other, as this is the demand of the script. Hence, the show will be proceeding towards its leap by mid May".

We also hear that the contract of Ulka Gupta too comes to an end sometime in May, and this eases the entire proceeding.

When contacted, Ulka's mother told us, "Ulka's last day of shoot is May 15th".

This will eventually make way for Krratika Sengar to essay the role of Jhansi Ki Rani.

As per our source, "The channel is planning big publicity for the leap, and it looks as though they are already underway with the preparations for shoot post leap, in Karjat".

We tried calling Krratika Sengar, and even sent her a text message but she remained unavailable.

When contacted, Sukesh Motwani, Fiction Head, Zee TV said, "We will talk about it when it is the right time".

Our efforts to reach to Producer Abhimanyu Singh were futile.

Dance India Dance gets its Top Four..

Zee TV's unique reality show Dance India Dance gets its Top Four contestants this week.

According to our source, "It was again Dharmesh Yelande who got the highest junta votes. Shakti Mohan secured the second highest while Punit Pathak was third, followed by Binny Sharma. To the shock of one and all, it was the talented dancer Amarjeet Singh who was ousted from the contest this week".

This week, the challenges were thrown in by Geeta Kapoor. "Shakti got to perform Kathak while Punit did Bharatnatyam. Binny was asked to do Bhaavatam, while Dharmesh danced on a Marathi song. Amarjeet performed on a number where he was seen doing pooja for the well being of his parents. It's heard that the guy even kept a vrat for this particular performance", informs our source.

Saturday's episode will see the contestants performing solo. The celebrity guest this week will be the fabulous dancer herself, Helenji.

With this, the stage is set for the top four contestants Dharmesh Yelande, Shakti Mohan, Punit Pathak and Binny Sharma to fight it out. The Grand Finale of Dance India Dance Season 2 will be held on April 24th.

Celebs shocking revelations on Ghar Ghar Mein

Just when we thought reality shows couldn't get any more brutal Zee TV presents Ghar Ghar Mein. This is a show where celeb couples are deeply drilled about issues that threatened the very foundations of their relationship.

In the show, Sharad and Kirti Kelkar are shown openly acknowledging their disillusionment of family members. Says our source, "Sharad and Kirti made no qualms about the fact that their parents strongly objected to their union in marriage. They candidly expressed that Kirti's brother and parents were stronger in their opposition. Funnily, the couple introduced their dog 'Bacardi' as their 'only' family member."

Shaleen Bhanot and Daljit, as a couple had to battle depression. Says our source, "Shaleen and Daljit owned up that after all the adulation and fanfare of Nach Baliye 5, they hit a valley for which none of them was prepared. The most shocking revelation was that Shaleen went into absolute depression and that for a year he was absconding! It was Daljit who had to take responsibility of the relationship at that time. She took it in her hands to transform cold, callous and arrogant person that he had become."

In the case of Kamya Punjabi and Bunty Negi, it was Kamya who got cornered in the show. We all know Kamya and Bunty had nullified their marriage for almost a year and almost signed on the dotted lines of the divorce papers. The show was an emotional roller-coaster ride for the couple. Says our source, "Kamya admitted that during the one year of separation, she got up-close and involved with other men. However, her gutsy confession didn't last long enough to answer the curious anchor's question of whether the man she got involved with was from the industry itself."

The most dramatic encounter was with Manav Gohil. The source says, "When the anchor asked Manav whether he has been caught red-handed with any other woman, he totally lost it and started yelling at the anchors Vipul and Manish. Things got out of control and Manav stomped off the sets." The source adds, "His reaction only goes to favor the rumors that his wife Shweta had in reality, caught him red-handed with another woman."

Shekhar-Laali Missing Each Other in Real Life!

Even though the serial ‘Agle Janam Mohe Bitiya Hi Kijo’ is focusing on Shekhar (Abhishekh Rawat) and Laali’s (Ratan Rajput) separation as Shekhar has started annoying Laali for her deeds. But the real life scenario is something else where both of them are missing each other. Don’t take it the wrong way but the couple is missing each other as they could not shoot together!

Informs a very excited Ratan. as after a longtime Abhishekh and she were together shooting at Film City, “ Since last week, we (Abhishekh and me) have been shooting separately as he is shooting in the haveli and I am shooting a jail sequence which is all the way in Chandivli and quite far from Film City. So we both usually speak on phone, that if this sequence goes on for long time, we won’t be able to meet each other and work together for the long time.”

“So, even if Shekhar doesn’t want to meet Laali, in contrary, Abhishekh and Ratan want to meet each other and were missing each other. And finally today I am shooting at Film City with him,” signs off Ratan.

That means finally Ratan you have mounted your hurdles and have reached finally returned to the haveli, isn’t it?

Helen to grace DID’s stage

Dance India Dance Season 2 has been graced by some of the biggest names and best dancers in the industry. ‘Jumping Jack’ Jeetendra to our favorite Govinda have both added zing to the stage, but coming on soon will be one who sent pulses rising and hearts beating faster. Helen in her heydays was proclaimed the ‘Cabaret Queen’ of Bollywood and her grace is still intact decades later.

A source informs, “Helen, the ‘cabaret queen’ of Bollywood will grace the last celebrity episode of Lux Dance India Dance. This is the episode wherein all the final 5 contestants will be given a task by Geeta Ma to dance to her Bollywood style.”

“The shoot for the last episode is going on today and final four contestants will be declared, who will be the finalists for the mega finale that will be live on 23rd April at Andheri Sports Complex, Mumbai. The judges for the grand finale have not yet been decided but Hrithik Roshan is one of the names speculated to judge.”

Let’s see who all are heading towards the grand finale and who owns the title of ‘dance ka sabe bada superstar’ but until then, we’ll just sit back and watch awe stuck when Helen throws her moves!

Mr. and Mrs. Sharma is threat to Jugni…?

A new rom-com show on SAB TV ‘Mr. and Mrs. Sharma Allahabad wale’ is Ujjwal Rana’s first as a producer.

A source informs, “The show is about to air from 17th of May, every Monday to Thursdays and the tentative timings for telecast is 9:30 pm. The show is all about a stupid yet lovely couple who adore each other for every simple achievement. Divyanka Tripathi and Rajesh Kumar will be essaying the role of Mrs. Rashmi Sharma and Mr. Drasht Dyumn Prasad Sharma respectively.”

“There are also some speculations that D.J ‘s ‘Jugni Chali Jalandhar’ which currently air on 9:30 PM slot might be a closing shop or else can shift its timing slot from 9:30 to 9:00 where the repeat of ‘Sajan Re Jhoot Mat Bolo’ telecasts.” adds source.

A person from the production house says, “No, we have not yet received any information about Jugni… going off air but as the time slot keeps changing might be then once again the time slot changes. But no such news had come to us.”

Let’s see if not Jugni than who is the next to shut shop!

Agle Janam…leaps after a break!

A buzz is in the air that Zee TV’s ‘Agle Janam Mohe Bitiya Hi Kijo’ will be soon taking a leap of 1 year where Laali (Ratan Rajput) will deliver a child and Ranvijay (Sachal Tyagi) will get behind to kill him as the child is the heir to the Thakurs. But viewers take a sign of relief as the talks are still going by the channel, regarding the leap.

A source informs, “Talks are going on regarding to take a leap in the show but it will take some time as now the show will be more concentrating on the trauma of Ratna’s death and how Kaushalya (Rupa Ganguly) will reveal the truth to whole family about the death. On other hand, minister plans to kill Laali and due to thid reason she will be rescued. Even though Laali will get rescued from the jail she will take long time to return back to the haveli.”

“Leap is one of the ideas which can turn the story but it will take some time as the channel is targeting for more TRP’s with the ensuing drama. The show had already taken a hike in its ratings as the show has jumped directly from 3.4 to 5 this week, more ratings are expected.” adds the source.

Even though after the break, get ready to experience a vast change in Laali!

Vansh to die in Uttaran?

If everything is going smoothly in life then we’d never have our TV soaps. Tears/emotions are the fulcrum of any soap. Without it, no soap can function.

Colors show Uttaran been subject to an array of emotions right from the beginning. As always, poor Ichcha (Tina Dutta) has borne the brunt of all negative things. Firstly, she didn’t get the love of her life Veer (Nandish Sandhu) and in stead got married to his unstable brother Vansh (Rohit Khurrana)

Vansh is livid to know about Ichcha and Veer’s past but he still marries the girl. Life will only get more turbulent for poor Ichcha.

It’s now buzzed that Vansh will die in a road accident as this character is not appeasing to the die hard Uttaran fans. If this is true then it will further add to Ichcha's misery.

A source informs, “Vansh’s character may die but not before he makes life miserable for Ichcha. He will deliberately torture Ichcha in front of Veer. Though, there’s time for his death.”

An actor though offers a different take.

“If Vansh were to die then now how will the story progress? Yes, there’s no denying that currently he’ll be going through tremendous trauma after learning that his wife will never be able to love him. But he will not physically torture Ichcha. I believe the fans themselves keep coming up with their own scripts for our show. However, we actor get the actual script at the last minute," said the actor.

Both Tina Dutta and Rohit Khurrana remained unavailable for comment.

Suhana gives her Sasural a Tough Time

Star Plus’s ‘Sasural Genda Phool’ will now actually take the inclination after the marriage of Suhana (Ragini Khanna) with Ishaan (Jay Soni) as now what the actual track of the show will come on the edge.

A source says, “Even though until now Suhana has rejected to marry Ishaan (because she always wanted to marry a dashing guy which Ishaan is not), will say yes to the alliance as after all she is her fathers ‘sweet daughter’ and for him she sacrifices her desires to tie the knot with Ishaan.”

“Just because of her family Suhana gets ready to marry Ishaan but will give a tough time to her sasural folks and will make their life living hell. At least initially she will throw tantrums and will behave very rudely.”

We called Ragini Khanna aka Suhana and she say, “Yes, Suhana will give tough time to her sasural people and the story will gear its actual flavor.”

Let’s see how Suhana or else her sasural people adjust with her.

It's revealed: Radhika is Ayesha in Jaane Pehchaane Se..

We had reported earlier that Ayesha the protagonist of Star One and Cinevistaas' Jaane Pehchaane Se Ye Ajnabbi would be shown falling off a cliff, and this would probably be the end of Aditi Tailang in the show!! We again followed it up with a report that Sanjeeda Sheikh will be entering the show, albeit as a new character.

And now we have the latest news, that in the coming episodes, viewers will get to know that the new character Radhika (Sanjeeda Sheikh) is in fact Ayesha who has come back with a vengeance!! With this, the hopes of loyal viewers who wanted Aditi Tailang to get back to the show as Ayesha, gets shattered!!

According to our source, "The recently aired episodes have already seen certain feelers that indicate to Radhika being Ayesha. But this truth will be opened up to the audience in the coming week".

"Radhika who is actually Ayesha would be shown to have gotten help from the man who poses to be her father now, played by Raju Kher. She comes back to the Ramada Hotel with a plan in mind. She knows that she has to first get into the good books of Kamini (Varsha Usgaonkar), in order to take revenge against Veer (Siddharth Shukla). She has a soft corner for Nihaal (Rahul Pendkalkar) while she holds grudge against Veer for not only her death, but also her sister's death, and feels that he might have done it for the sake of property", informs our source.

Once the truth of Radhika's real identity is out to the viewers, there will be more 'Tashan' seen between her and Veer.

We called Sanjeeda to know about this, but she had this to say, "That is suspense, you need to wait and watch".

We tried calling Amita Devadiga, Creative Head, but she remained unavailable.

Get ready for the big revelation in Star One's Jaane Pehchaane Se Ye Ajnabbi...

Zaynah and Ziyah Vastani favorites to host DID Little Masters?

We had reports that the production house and channel were on the lookout for twin kids to host Zee TV's upcoming reality show DID Little Masters.

A little birdie now tells us, "Zaynah Vastani who portrayed the autistic Antara in Zee TV's Aap Ki Antara and her twin sister Ziyah Vastani stand a bright chance of hosting the show. Till now, they head the list of probables, and the channel and production house are in fact confident that the two girls can do a great job as hosts. At the same time, hunt for new faces are still on and auditions for the same are going on at different places. In fact, Ulka Gupta who essays the role of Mannu in Zee TV's Jhansi Ki Rani is also one of the favourites to bag the prized opportunity".

We tried calling Havov, Ziyah and Zynah's mother but she remained unavailable. We also tried getting Ulka Gupta's mother for a confirmation, but she too did not revert.

When contacted, Ashish Golwalkar, Non-Fiction Head, Zee TV said, "Nothing is confirmed as of now. We are still going through the audition process. Yes, Ziyah and Zynah and even Ulka Gupta are in the probable list, but we have many others in the frame too".

Our birdie insists that, "Though Ulka Gupta looked very confident as host in the rehearsal done the channel is eyeing on the twins Ziyah and Zynah for sure. They are their top choice till now, and this will change only if they get a better option through their auditions that are still on".

Let's see whether the twins finally bag this meaty opportunity…

Ammaji to be kidnapped; entry of an equally fierce character in Laado.

Ammaji (Meghna Malik) of COLORS and Shakuntalam Telefilms' Na Aana Is Desh Laado has emerged as one of the fiercest characters depicted in the Indian Television history for the terror factor that she creates with her overpowering attitude.

But what if another character which is as dominant and terrifying as Ammaji comes face to face with the lady? Well, this is what is going to happen in COLORS' Laado in the coming episodes..

According to our reliable source, "There will be a huge twist in the coming episodes of Na Aana Is Desh Laado. Ammaji will be kidnapped by a person who is extremely powerful. Viewers will not be shown the face of the person to begin with, and will not even have an inclination as to whether this person is a guy or a girl. But it will later turn out that the person behind Ammaji's stunning kidnap is actually a girl who is as strong and powerful as Ammaji".

It is heard that the channel and production house have planned some major twists that will probably shake Ammaji from within.

A little birdie tells us, "Shikha Singh who was last seen playing a cameo in Zee TV's Ghar Ki Lakshmi Betiyann will essay this dominant character and will be the girl who kidnaps Ammaji. Her entry will provide a big setback to Ammaji and this will be an interesting phase to watch out for. She will be portrayed more or less as the female version of Robinhood".

It is heard that the channel has shot a major promo which will show Ammaji's kidnap. The promo will provide this intrigue factor on the identity of the kidnapper, whose face will not be revealed initially.
Shikha Singh was last seen doing an episodic for Sony's CID.

We tried calling Shikha Singh and even sent her a text message, but she did not respond.

We even tried calling Meghna Malik, but failed to get any revert.

We could not get any confirmation on this big development in Laado from the channel as well as production house.

Well, it's payback time for sure in COLORS' Na Aana Is Desh Laado…

Distressed Muskaan wants to quit Jugni

The bubbly Muskaan Mihani is not a happy soul these days. The reason for it is the alleged politics on the sets of Jugni chali jalandhar. The girl is said to be so upset that she’s supposedly contemplating a move out of the show.

A little birdie from the sets informs, “From the past two months, Muskaan seems very disturbed on sets and is not behaving as before. One can make out from face that something is bothering her.”

The source continues, “Muskaan is fed up of the politics that prevails on the sets of Jugni. Few of her co-actors are making life difficult for Mehani. Their negative comments are making her see red. Apparently, Muskaan is so fed up that she wants to quit Jugni. She’s now eyeing new shows.”

We called Muskaan Mihani but she simply refused to comment.

Woh Rehne Waali introduces Rani's new family..

We had given our readers the news of Suhasini Mulay heading the Johari family in Sahara One and Rajshri Productions'Woh Rehne Waali Mehlon Ki. This will be the new family into which the protagonist Rani (Reena Kapoor) will get married into, in the coming episodes!!

Actress Guddi Maruti will be playing the Bua of Rishabh (Samir Sharma).

We give you an insight on the other characters in the new family that is being introduced in the show.

According to our source, "Suhasini Mulay plays Nirmala Devi Johuri who wants her grandson to marry the girl she likes. Rishabh's Tauji is played by Amit Singh Thakur. Amit Thakur's screen name is Pradeep, and he is a loser who has lost money in business. He loves all kinds of luxuries at his mother's expense. He suffers from various diseases. Supriya Karnik plays Pradeep's wife Mohini, who is a spendthrift. Abir Goswami plays Tauji's son, Akash who is a simple man, often faces the consequences of his dad's wrong business moves. Riddhima Tiwari plays Akash's wife, Ayesha who is a typical page 3 girl. Guddi Maruti plays Nirmala Devi's daughter, her screen name being Sweety Bua. Nirmal Soni plays her husband Jugal Kishore who is a ghar jamaai. Sweety Bua's son Vicky is played by Bhisham Mansukhani who is the rich spoilt brat".

The entry of the new family will be aired very soon, and Rajshri Productions promises to bring in a new flavour to the show with the inception of the new track.

Nandish Sandhu joins the fight against drugs

Veer aka Nandish Sandhu, the sweet chocolate boy of Colors' popular serial Uttaran has put a step forward to help many more people like 'Vansh' who are suffering from 'Drug Addiction' in real life too.

Nandish strongly feels that the drug addicts ratio especially amongst the youth is rising at a very high pace and as a responsible citizen he has been rigorously working on his 'Say NO To Drug' campaign from past a month now.

"Yes, I really feel that this issue needs special attention because it has gripped many youngsters and this needs to be handled on a much individual level. I had also been to Delhi on March 21st and recently on April 3rd wherein we visited JIMS college, DLF mall and we conducted best slogan contest. We stopped over rehabilitation centers to spread awareness", conveyed Nandish.

When asked whether the track of his present serial motivated him to fight for this issue he swiftly replied, "No actually it's a mere coincidence that a similar track was worked out in the serial. Actually, some months back one of my very close friends expired due to drug addiction. Seeing the pain he was going through when alive and then the trauma that his family experienced after his death it just shook me from within and directed me to take this step."

Nandish at present is working as a one man army but aims to grow his campaign into a fully fledged institution very soon. "Certainly, I'm planning to get myself associated with a NGO working against drug addiction and I'm also trying to involve other television as well as bollywood celebrities in this campaign in due course of time. And when we proceed with it my team of Uttaran will be approached first," he says.

But as of now Nandish is fighting towards the drug addicton issue through a socializing platform, called SMS GupShup, wherein people who wish to support him could just send a SMS- JOIN NANDISH to 092195 92195.

So as Nandish is utilizing his television stardom for a social cause we hope that he receives utmost support and also helps in depreciating the drug addicts' ratio in our country.

Zara Nachke Dikha goes for an extravagant promotional shoot..

The Battle of Sexes, Zara Nachke Dikha on Star Plus is expected to launch sometime in May.

A special promotional Music Shoot for the same has been organized at Karjat, which will be shot today and tomorrow. This will be followed with the shoot of a promotional video wherein all the contestants participating in the show will be presented.

According to our source, "Pritam will be composing music for the audio track, while well known singers from the industry Sunidhi Chauhan, Anushka Manachandani, and Sooraj Jagan of 'Give Me Some Sunshine' fame will be the singers".

"Earlier, Shreya Ghoshal and Zubin of Ya Ali fame had been finalized to be part of the singing team, but things did not work out as they were categorized to having a romantic voice, which would not suit the theme of the audio track", informs our source.

We earlier had exclusive news that Dia Mirza, Shilpa Shetty, Bipasha Basu had been approached to judge the show.

And as per the latest, it is Shilpa Shetty who has been finalized as one of the judges on the show.

The actress has herself confirmed the news on a social networking site saying, "I will be judging Zara Nachke Dikha on Star. It's official and we are on".

As per our source, "Ganesh Hegde is also mostly finalized as the second judge on the show,but the final decision is to be taken by the channel on this. The third judge has not been decided yet".

We tried calling Fazeela Allana, SOL but she remained unavailable.

Jaya Binju and Sachal Tyagi to wed soon..

Jaya Binju and Sachal Tyagi after having enjoyed a courtship of more than two and half years and are now thinking about marriage plans!!

Jaya Binju is presently seen in Sahara One's Kesariya Balam Aavo Humare Des, while Sachal plays the Bad Man in Zee TV's Agle Janam Mohe Bitiya Hi Kijo. The duo had planned to tie the knot early this year, but the unfortunate death of Jaya's father forced them to postpone their wedding.

According to our source, "Jaya and Sachal are now looking for an auspicious date somewhere between September and October of this year".

When contacted, Sachal Tyagi told us, "We have left it to the elders of our families to decide on the date for the wedding. But yes, it is going to be either in September or October of this year. The marriage will take place in Delhi, and we will be giving a grand reception for all our fraternity friends and well wishers in Mumbai later".

Jaya Binju too echoed the same and said, "We are just waiting for the date to be announced by our elders. We will soon start with the wedding preparations".

We wish them both all the success and happiness!!

Neha Desai eager to play her age in Aise Karo Naa Vidaa..

Neha Desai who will soon be entering COLORS'Aise Karo Naa Vidaa is happy that she has got a role which is young in age.

Neha will play the sister of Yashvardhan (Anas Rashid) and Aryaman (Rohit Purohit) in the show.

Talking about her role, Neha says, "I have played every role in Woh Rehne Waali Mehlon Ki starting from a kothewali, to a wife, widow, mother and a keep. It feels really nice to be playing a young girl who is aged about 19 or 20. My character name is Jyotika; she is the laadli daughter and is very close to her brothers. She is very bubbly, positive and comes home for her brother's marriage. She had been studying somewhere abroad".

Neha took up the role for another reason. "Well, I was free for 15 days in a month, and for me, shooting means life. So when I came across a role that was full of life, I took it up".

Talking about her track in Woh Rehne Waali, Neha tells us, "Rani and the entire family has now got to know that Payal has not married the guy, and is just his keep. They have thrown her out of the house. But Payal's intentions have always been good, as she sacrificed her life for the betterment of her family. So we will soon proceed to the track wherein Rani will eventually get me into the house".

Coming back to Aise Karo Naa Vidaa, Neha Desai has started shoot for the show and her entry will be aired on 8th April. Watch out for tomorrow's. episode @ 2 pm.

Shravani on bed rest; Archana at her service!

Zee TV’s ‘Pavitra Rishta’ in the coming episode will see the protagonists fulfilling their duties at their respective sasural. As the promos are aired that Manav (Sushant Rajput) has agreed for helping out with Archana’s (Ankita Lokhande) sister’s wedding this will definitely bring raise everyone’s eyebrows. Elaborating on it a source says, “Manav will go to Karanjkar family to help them for the wedding ceremony while Archana will be at her sasural taking care of Shravani (Pooja Pihal) till she gets well.”

Adding more on it says source, “As Shravani has all her anger focused on Archana, she works hard at her household duties thinking that she is the daughter-in-law-to-be and therefore fails in taking care of herself. Thus, she falls sick and eventually doctor asks her to take complete bed rest. For that reason Archana will be at her service, taking care of her. Even though Shravani will be annoyed with what all Archana is doing with her, she has left with no option.”

“Archana will be taking care of Shravani while Manav will be busy helping out with the activities. The coming track is expected to be a highly packed drama.” adds the source.

Well, let’s see what more does Shravani brings to Archana and Manav’s life!

Toral denies seeing Akshat Gupta

Toral Rasputra aka Rasal of Kesariya balam fame is very upset. And, what is it that has caused Rasputra so incensed? The girl is deeply hurt by a tabloid report which claimed that she’s seeing her on-screen husband Akshat Gupta.

“I like to keep my personal life away from public domain. What has really upset me is this reporter didn’t even bother to bother to find the truth from me. This is a complete false report as I’m not at all seeing Akshat or anyone,” says an irate Rasputra.

She adds, “Ever since this report has been published, I’ve been getting several calls from my friends who were keen to know the truth. I don’t aspire for publicity and I certainly don’t welcome such personal stories. Come on; give me a break how can one use words such as ‘I’m trying to get too close to him’. This is very derogatory. One should be careful with what you write,” the actress chided.

Gurmeet’s prank causes deep pain to his fans

On 31 March a portal had carried a report of an alleged break-up between love birds Gurmeet Choudhary and Debina Bonnerjee. A day later it was revealed that this was just an April fool’s joke played by the actors so as to gauge the reactions from their fans.

Unfortunately, the fans don’t seem to be amused by this trick and are extremely unhappy with the duo for this act. Hundreds of fans have written mails while a few fanatics resorted to some extreme step to expresses their displeasure. One such fanatic stopped eating until he was assured from Choudhary that this was all but a joke.

Gurmeet says, “It was meant to be an April fool joke but apparently we’ve unintentionally cause lot of panic among our fans. Ever since, we put that news, fans have expressed their displeasure through messages on social networking sites. Besides I’ve received several calls from in and outside the country. Personally, I’m very humbled by their reaction. I never thought this joke would spread like a fire.”

Talking about a particular fan, he says, “Unfortunately, a fan from Kolkata (I can’t recollect his name) was so hit by this news that he refused to eat until I spoke to him. I was really surprised and hurt too at the plight of this man. I told him that this is just a joke and assured him that Debina and I will always be together. I apologize to him and my other fans.”

Well, you better do Gurmeet because in this country viewers have always idolized one who’s played Lord Ram. So such pranks from the Gods are unpardonable.

Amrita evicted from Dance India Dance

Ye.. ye.. ye.. ye…! Sounds like a familiar expression, doesn’t it! Well, this euphoric voice of Amrita will no longer be heard on Dance India Dance 2. In a shocking eviction, the girl from Kolkata finds her self out of the show.

A source says, “Amrita, who had come as a wild card entry, bid adieu to the show. The girl had initially failed the audition but was kept on stand-by and drafted directly into the final 12. Unfortunately, she’s now out due to lack of votes,” said a source.

Adding further the source says, Geeta Ki Gang who was leading the mentors’ team with three contestants but Amrita’s eviction leaves her with Dharmesh sir and Binny. Terence Ki Toli has Kuwar Amarjeet and Shakti Mohan while Puneet is the lone representative from Remo Ke Rangeele” adds the source.

Meanwhile, actor Govinda will be the special guest this weekend. Plus TV actors Sushant Rajput, Ankita Lokhande, Ratan Rajput, Jasveer Kuar, Suhasi Dhami and Abhishekh Rawat perform duet acts with the contestants.