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KYUNKI BAHU AB SAAS HAI: Savita (left, played by Apara Mehta) and Tulsi (Smriti Z Iraani) in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi

20-year leap

"It's true that we have touched upon the controversial issue of mercy killing," says the producer.

"The episodes will air in December this year. In a series of events leading up to the situation, Tulsi (Smriti Z Iraani) will kill her mother-in-law, Savita (Apara Mehta), as an act of mercy.

This will lead to Mihir (Ronit Roy) and Tulsi splitting up (to meet again 20 years later). For the first time in the history of Kyunki, Baa (Sudha Shivpuri) will tell Tulsi she doesn't want to see her face ever again."

Moksha or murder?

Why did she decide to take up this issue? "I have dealt with social issues in all my soaps. I was always interested in mercy killing; I believe in it and feel it should be legalised, subject to certain laws that make sure people don't misuse it.

What I find extremely interesting is the fact that in Hindu mythology, to kill a suffering soul is to give him moksha, or set him free; but by other standards, mercy killing is murder. How do we understand this contradiction? I am definitely taking a clear stand on this," Ekta adds.
Baa's death postponed

Won't this be a shocker for Kyunki fans? "Yes, Savita has always been Tulsi's biggest ally, antagonist, support and altar ego; her biggest catalyst in every drama. Their relationship made the show.

Today, why should Tulsi do such a thing? The mercy killing will be a turning point for the serial after Ansh's death. After killing her son in cold blooded, Tulsi kills her mother-in-law out of mercy." Ekta says Baa's death "had to be postponed because of popular demand; it will happen after the transition."

In the leap, which happens in February next year, Ekta plans to rope in Kkavyanjali star Eijaz Khan in a major role — the main grandson, either Saahil or Gautam's son. "The main cast of Kyunki will remain the same. I have spoken to everyone and all of them have agreed."