Tellychakkar was the first one to give you the report of Sharad Malhotra quitting Dulhann. We were also the first one to break the news of the entry of veteran actor Ahmed Khan in place of Kamya Punjabi. With so many changes going on in the serial, we decided to call up the lifeline of the show -- the beautiful Divyanka Tripathi -- to enquire about her future plans vis-a-vis Dulhann the show which helped her find a foothold in the industry. We caught her in Bangalore where she is visiting her sister for a family function. Excerpts from the tete-a-tete:

What was your first reaction when Sharad told you about his decision to quit Dulhann?

To be very honest, this was so sudden and unexpected that I was left speechless and didn't know how to react. But I consoled myself after he explained his reasons to me. Sharad wants to move ahead in life and participate in some interesting workshops to improve his acting skills. I supported him in his decision.

I remember, when he was dillydallying and not being able to take this decision, he spoke to many producers, directors and established actors from the industry. He even spoke to Neelimaji and Shyamji and shared his feelings. He was in a big dilemma before finally deciding to leave Dulhann. I respect his decision and wish him all the best for everything in future.

There are rumours that Sharad has landed himself a plum role in a big banner film…

You have to confirm this with Sharad, I cannot comment on his behalf.

The sets of Dulhann will not be the same without Sharad. What is it that you will miss the most?

(Smiles) Lot of things. His availability on the set, our on-screen chemistry and our entire team work which fetched us so many awards in the last few years. He is a great friend and since both of us started our careers with this serial, we have loads of special memories which will always remain in our hearts. This, despite the fact that Sharad and I are poles apart. Sharad is very westernised and has a very modern outlook to everything, whereas I am just the opposite -- very conservative and orthodox in a number of ways. We both complemented each other well and developed this bonding over the last three years. I will miss him a lot -- as a friend, human being and colleague.

Two of the main attractions -- Sharad and Kamya -- are quitting Dulhann. Do you think it will have any impact on you?

Honestly I don't know. But one thing I know for sure is that I will be attached to this show till the end. I cannot think of a life without Dulhann or someone else playing Vidya's role. This role gave me my identity in the industry. I can't be ungrateful to the production house or the channel that made me what I am. But let me clarify that I am not saying Sharad or Kamya were unfaithful. They had their own compulsions.
Kamya has not been keeping well for the last few weeks. But I was not aware that she is leaving the show. I never knew Ahmed Khan has replaced Kamya in the show! This is news to me and I am surprised at this change. I am sure that both Sharad and Kamya are very sad to leave this show.

The cast and crew of Dulhann are an extremely dedicated lot. You should come to sets to see how much of fun we have. All the guys will make a small cricketing pitch and play a game on the sets, while the girls will shout and support them as a cheerleaders! We have our own IPL on the set of Dulhann. Sharad will definitely miss this more than anything else! (smiles)

Who will replace Sharad?

There are few characters who cannot be replaced. Sharad is one of them. Sagar is a very romantic character and Dulhann's viewers cannot think of anyone else but Sharad for this. I guess the creative team will need to decide within a few days what they want to do with Sharad's track. He may be sent underground for a few weeks! (smiles)

Are you working on anything else?

Nothing right now. Will wait for another couple months to see how the audience reacts to these new developments. However, more than new shows, I want to take a break for a couple of months. My new house will be ready by then. It is my dream come true. I want to concentrate on designing the interiors of the house for some time.