DC: People will accept this replacement

The Balaji boy who made his debut with Kutumb and subsequently played key characters in Kyunki, Kasauti and Karam Apna Apna will replace Sushant Singh Rajput in his mentor Ekta Kapoor's Pavitra Rishta. With Sushant finally quitting the show, the channel and production house considered many options for Manav's character. Mrunal Jain was said to be a hot favourite. Sharad Kelkar, Yah Tonk and Aamir Dalvi were also in running for the role.

"Of course, they had a few options but I really don't know why they chose me. I think it was a mutual decision between the channel and production house," says Hiten. Did his Balaji connection help? "I think Ekta knows better," he shoots back. He admits that he has not watched Pavitra Rishta and hence has no clue about the role. "I have heard that it's a popular show. So it's going to be a challenge to live up to audience's expectations," says Hiten.

Audience is used to watching Sushant and his beau Archana Lokhande as a couple in Pavitra Rishta. Will it not be difficult for Hiten to fit into Sushant's shoes? Will audience accept him as Manav? "Every replacement is difficult because every actor leaves his mark on the character. When I replaced Cezanne (Khan) in Kasauti, people asked me the same question. But viewers accept every replacement over a period," he defends.

After Kyunki, Kasauti and Karam ended, Hiten did a couple of cameos in shows like Bandini, Choti Bahu, Rang Badalti Odhani and Dharam Patni. He also anchored Ratan Ka Rishta. Was he happy playing cameos? "I don't know why people didn't consider me for lead roles. Often actors lose their patience fast but I didn't. I knew lead roles will come my way," he says. Maybe he was too busy helping Gauri look after their twins? "Not really. For a long time I wanted to get into food business and finally I opened my restaurant last year," he reveals.

https://www.deccanchronicle.com/channels/showbiz/tv-guide/%E2%80%98fans-will-accept-replacement%E2%80%99-835