Zaara (Sahara One) is in for a sweeping change with the majority of the star cast leaving the show. According to sources, Shagufta Ali, Rajeev and a reluctant Samiksha Jug (Zaara) have agreed to remain with the show. All the other characters have been bumped off.
If sources are to be believed, low TRPs and the generational leap didn't gone down well with the actors. Apparently, the lead protagonist Samiksha Jug too may make an exit. When contacted Samiksha Jug denied this. "I'm not quitting Zaara. If the producers and the audience want me to continue then I see no reason in quitting the show."
But are you comfortable with the generational leap?
"It's just another five year leap. We had already taken a ten year leap, thus there's no harm in adding another five years to Zaara," Samiksha clarified.
While Samiksha is claiming commitment, it's been buzzed that the actress is honouring her contract which is likely to expire soon.
Producer Binaifer Kohli says, "None of the actors had any reservation to the generational leap. It was very much a part of the script. All actors were informed of it well in advance. Thus, the question of resentment doesn't arise."
But were these changes necessary once you lost so many actors?
"I sincerely believe that this change was warranted. In fact, we dragged on the earlier track. The current track should have been implemented earlier. As a producer, we also have to keep the commercial (TRPs) interest in mind. I firmly believe that the new track will catch with the audience."
A new track offers an opportunity for new actors. The likes of Varun Khandelwal, Jaya Binjoo and Priya Ahuja are among the new entrants.