Chhavi storms off Tumhari Disha set

Made to wait

The twist in the tale happened when Chhavi walked off the sets after she realised the unit would require more time with her. The actress usually has a weekly off on Thursday, but decided to go ahead with the shoot, since the channel was keen to get the promos on air.

When asked if she left her shoot mid-way, Chhavi said, "Yes I did leave the set, but that's only after waiting for four hours — from 8 am to noon.

Actually it's my weekly off today, but I cooperated, since my presence was required for the shoot. However, when I realised they were making me wait longer, I couldn't comply and had to leave."

Sarkari kaam

What was so urgent that she had to leave the set? "There has been some very important government work pending for the last five months. There was no way I could back out of it, or postpone it. In fact, when I reached the office, the officer I had to meet had already left. So I have to wait some more now."

But doesn't this hamper the show's shooting? "There are times when I am made to wait for hours, while sometimes I get caught up and the producers have to wait. I think both parties have to compromise on certain occasions," says Chhavi, adding that if possible, she would try and resume the shoot as soon as her work was done.

"It is difficult balancing your personal and professional life, but there isn't much anyone can do about it."

Programming head for Zee, Ashwini Yarde confirmed that it was necessary to get the shoot wrapped up yesterday. "Yes we did press for the promos to highlight a track happening next week. But I think we couldn't meet our requirement due to reasons known to you."

Pivotal drama

Producer Rupali Guha, who was in Delhi, was aware of what happened on the sets. "I did hear that Chhavi had to leave due to personal reason. I think all of us are working really hard to maintain the success Disha has achieved. There are pressures on everyone from various factors, but a common path needs to be achieved."

Did Chhavi's walking out upset Guha? "The channel did ask us to shoot for promos, as next week's drama is very pivotal for the story. So the on air promotion did have to start as soon as possible. However, that isn't possible now. I guess we'll have to think of something else."