Producer Rajan Shahi: I am not casting anyone now for Naitik's role

Vishal Singh and Karan Mehra

Post Karan Mehra's exit from popular daily soap 'Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata' earlier this month, gossip mills have been buzzing about a fallout with producer Rajan Shahi and how he's trying to convince his 'favourite actor' to return to the show. There is also speculation that Vishal Singh (Sanju of 'Dekh Bhai Dekh') has stepped in as Karan's replacement. However, Shahi puts the rumours to rest, saying he is yet to begin casting for Naitik's character.

Vishal Singh and Karan Mehra

"I very well know the source of these rumours, but truth is, I have not met or spoken to Vishal even on phone. Nor have I done a look test with him. I am not casting anyone at the moment. Naitik's re-entry is scheduled for September. Now, we are focussing on the younger generation's story, which has been attracting positive reviews," says Shahi.

Producer Rajan Shahi

Prod him about the possibility of Vishal entering the show and he simply says, "It is embarrassing for actors if their names are tossed around when it is not true."

So, is he hoping to get Karan on board again? Shahi explains, "Since he left, people have been asking why I did not stop him and what went wrong between us. Frankly, we share the best of relationships. Karan expressed a desire to do something more in life - concentrate on his health and go on a holiday; I couldn't deny that to him. I respect him because he is one actor who has never given anyone the opportunity to complain. For the last seven years, he was dedicated to his role and if he asks to be let gone, I have to respect that. It was an extremely difficult decision, both for him and me."

Vishal, too, says he has not been approached to play Naitik. "Rajan has not even made a passing mention of it," he adds.