'Ek Tha Raja Ek Thi Rani' leap: Here's why Drashti Dhami aka Gayatri will not be a part of the show

For quite some time now, "Ek Tha Raja Ek Thi Rani" has been in news for its impending leap, after which the storyline of the period love-drama will essentially revolve around Ranaji (Siddhant Karnick) and Gayatri's (Drashti Dhami) children. While viewers are eagerly waiting for the leap, it has been reported that Drashti will not be a part of the show after the time jump.

According to Hindustan Times, the actress decided to quit the show as she doesn't want to play the role of a mother at this stage of her career. "It was a tough choice to make. I had to quit the show, as my character would change after the leap. I was asked to play a mother, and I am not comfortable doing that at the moment," Drashti told the daily.

Talking about the show, which is close to her heart, Drashti said she is feeling sad to exit "Ek Tha Raja Ek Thi Rani," but also believes that the makers have chosen to bring in the new twist so as to keep its viewers glued to the show. "Every show has a destiny, and every actor works hard on a show. When makers want to bring in a new twist to a story or change its direction, alternations have to be made," she added.

Siddhant too is said to be planning his exit from the show, and the makers are looking for new lead actors who will replace Drashti and Siddhant post the leap in the story.

With her journey on the show coming to an end, Drashti is planning to take a break and travel abroad with her friends. "I will be going to Europe for 20 days. I have planned an itinerary that covers many cities, including Prague (Czech Republic), Budapest (Hungary), Berlin (Germany), Amsterdam (Netherlands) and Paris (France). I will go with some of my friends, and the weather will be wonderful in June," she added.

Before the plot moves ahead several years, the makers have planned a high-voltage drama and a consummating scene between Ranaji and Gayatri. Meanwhile, it has been reported that popular actor Chetan Hansraj has been roped in to play the antagonist post-leap.