Fans and loyal audience members of Ye Rishta Kya kehlata Hai are shocked at the news of Hina Khan quitting the show after playing one of television’s most loved characters — Akshara — for eight long years. The news however was anticipated by the cast and crew of the show, months in advance.
The stories of Hina’s tantrums and insecurities with her co-stars were old and had been circulating at regular intervals, but the main reason for her ouster, if sources are to be believed, happens to be her co-star — Shivangi Joshi — who plays the character of Naira in the show. In all likelihood, Hina and Shivangi, who famously played the loving mother-and-daughter duo on screen, never saw eye-to-eye off the screen, reveals a source from the set.
“Their cold vibes and bickering soon became the fodder for gossip and discussion for the entire unit. The actors would often have long and heated arguments, which would hinder the shoot,” says a source, further adding, “In the midst of all the drama, Hina incidentally took ill and was hospitalised for a prolonged period of time. Her absence led the makers to shift the focus on Naira’s track and that’s how Shivangi started gaining prominence.”
According to the source who preferred to stay unidentified, various rounds of discussions and arguments led to a major showdown between the mentor-and-producer, Rajan Shahi and his protégé Hina.
“As it is her long history of tantrums, interference and working on her own terms had upset Rajan and this showdown just happen to be the last nail in the coffin,” continues the source adding, “The situation was only getting worse and Hina was adamant that she would not budge. Rajan then in consultation with the channel decided to bump off Hina’s character for good.”
When contacted, Shivangi said, “I have got nothing to do with (Hina) Akshara’s exit. The stories of my cold vibes with Hina are rubbish. She was very sweet to me.” Soon she excused herself from the call, citing a tight schedule. Our repeated calls to Hina and Rajan Shahi went unanswered.
