I think it is very possible that Shiv would have not fallen in love with the Anandi 5 years ago. We look for partners that are equal in social standing, education, etc.
In fact I dont even blame Jagya for falling in love with Gauri. Where I have a problem with Jagya is that he was completely aware of the society Anandai was brought up in and that education was not encouraged nor was being self-reliant as a girl. But this girl was his good friend, and helped him tirelessly as a child and teenager. The least he owed her was support, friendship and respect - NONE of which he gave her. He should have said, I dont love you that way, but will help you become something, but he did not!
My problem with Gauri is that, she too grew up in that society and is a women, should have understood how Anandi must have felt. Should have explained she loved Jagya, did not mean to steal him. She too was married as a child bride-should have tried to embraced their differences. She should have understood that Anandi and he could never be friends, but atleast mutually respect and stay out of each others way. Instead she is out to make Anandi and Everyone is Jagyas family miserable. I understand jealousy, but she is vicious.
Now to Shiv, he is not from that village, he is abroad educated, but still understands circumstances of Anandi better than Jagya. May be he would not have fallen in love with Anandi the way she was 5 yrs ago, but would have still tried to help her and been understanding. Thats where they differ. That is why Shiv is agood person and Jagya is not. Shiv puts other first, and jagya is selfish!
I think even five years ago as Anadi became more like she is today, Shiv would have been there along the way unlike Jagya, and eventually perhaps fallen in love with her.
Of course thats Shiv today, its a soap he could be evil tomorrow :)