Ekta Kapoor's Planning New Serial on *+

By Subhash K Jha

Until July 10, a month after Ekta Kapoor's 34th birthday, the exiled czarina of the small screen remains just there. In exile.

So says Ekta's family astrologer.No press. No parties. No public functions. Only confidential work with a core team that the tv tycoon has handpicked.

This selfimposed exclusion from the limelight is not a move calculated to buy Ekta time and television space.

Says a source close to the never-say-why tycoon, "Ekta was advised by her astrologer to keep strictly mum until July 10 2009.

The family astrologer Janardhan who advises Ekta and her family on all personal and business matters has advised Ekta to not speak to the press or any media until the stipulated date. Ekta always listens to Janardhanji. So far she hasn't made one move against his wishes.

And she sees no reason to diosobey Janardhan now. On his say-so she will keep away from the limelight specially the media until July 10."

In the meanwhile Balajee Films has undergone a major shakeup. Says the source, "So far Ekta was working with people whom she though she could trust to carry the company forward.Many of them have let her down. She has now relieved many top-rankers of their duties and brought in key people and hopes to make the company's plans procedures and vision more participative and collaborative.

The new CEO who replaced her Uncle, she feels is a big step up towards putting Balajee Films back on its feet. At the moment she's planning three films and two new serials. And keeping very quiet about it."

As for the much- discussed feud with Star, she still has shows on the channel. "In fact some of her serials on Star like Kis Desh Mein Hai Mera Dil and Tujh Sang Preet Lagai doing very well. She may soon do another new show for Star.

Far from licking her wounds Ekta is planning a major fund of films and serials in 2009-2010. But no talking, please. Not until Janardhanji waves the green flag."

When contacted Eka refused to comment.