Mahesh's loss is Sushant's gain - Article

But what they don't know is that he wasn't the original choice to play the lead opposite Archana. Mahesh Shetty who was seen in Kis Desh Mein Hai Meraa Dil and Ghar Ek Sapna was the one whom Ekta Kapoor had rested her eyes on. If sources are to be believed, then Kapoor tried to rope him on the show but his exclusive contract with Ajai Sinha for his show Ghar Ek Sapna, abhorred him from taking up the show and that's how Sushant came on- board. Considering the popularity and success the cast of the show is enjoying, it sure looks like Mahesh's loss.

Confirming the news, Shetty says, "Yes, I was in the running but couldn't take up the show then. I wouldn't want to comment on the reason. I am doing an important character on Pavitra Rishta. Balaji is like a family and it's always nice to work with them."

So does he consider it a loss for not having had lost on the opportunity to play Manav? "Not really. I am doing some very good shows and in addition to that my character on the show will shape up eventually and will turn out to be pivotal to the track."

Not the one to sulk over the loss. Mahesh certainly believes in moving on.