Zee TV's popular drama series "Jodha Akbar" is set for a big change in terms of lead actors. Rumours have been doing the rounds that Ravi Bhatia aka Salim of "Jodha Akbar" might bid adieu to the show.
And the makers of the show are planning to rope in television actor Aly Goni for Salim's role. Aly is currently working in same production house's popular show "Yeh Hai Mohabbatein". He is portraying the character of Romi Bhalla, Raman Bhalla's (Karan Patel) younger brother.
"We plan to play up the Salim-Anarkali track and they feel that Ravi looks too young for the part. The ratings of the show have plummeted and we want to leave no stone unturned to retain its lost glory. We are trying to bring in Aly as the new Salim," a source told The Times of India.
Another television actor Shaleen Malhotra was approached for the role, but apparently the deal fell through.
"The deal failed to materialise with him as he quoted a high amount," the source added.
However, both Ravi and Aly have denied being replaced and approached for the role. While Aly said that he hasn't been approached for the role, Ravi clarified that it's all "rumours".
Meanwhile, reports of drama series "Jodha Akbar" going off air have also been rife.
"The serial has seen its share of controversies as well. Now, the Salim's character is yet to find a tune with the masses and also Paridhi aka Jodha's contract is expiring soon. On top of that, the numbers have also dipped quite a bit over time. So all these points have led to the idea of pulling the plug off the project," a source told Telly Chakkar.
But neither Salim getting replaced nor the show going off air has been confirmed by the makers.