I doubt that this character will be negative as the Pandit track was dragged for quite some time, so he won't separate Manan
I predict that he might be Nandini's childhood friend who Manik later on feel jealous of and feel that Nandini has feelings for him. But really he will be the good guy.
OR he might fall for Alya and Dhruv will be jealous.
Let me know what u guys think!!