EJAZ GUNA DIE..

Kavya, the character played by Ejaz Khan in the TV serial "Kavyanjali", is set to die. But fret not.

Another protagonist, Shaurya, to be played by Iqbal Khan, will take over.

Producer Ekta Kapoor told IANS: "Yes, Ejaz's character is going to die. In fact, his death was scheduled for December 2005. But the development was deferred because Ejaz was nominated for the Star Parivar Awards in several categories.

"But now we are going right ahead with the death. We at Balaji consider it a big twist in the plot."

Ekta's favourite Iqbal, who is taking over the role of the new protagonist, says there is a reason for it.

"Such changes are bound to happen in long-running serials. When Amit Tandon came into my serial 'Kaisa Yeh Pyaar Hai', he became as central to the plot as my character," said Iqbal.

He is working for as many as 16 hours for Balaji Telefilms.

"And I don't regret it one bit. In fact, I enjoy the workload. It's up to Ekta's team to decide how they want to use me. I suppose, out of the 16 working hours, I'll give eight hours to my older serial 'Kaisa Yeh Pyaar Hai' and eight to 'Kavyanjali'... that's what I have worked out in my mind. The rest is up to Ekta."

Iqbal is excited about joining "Kavyanjali".

"My character Shaurya is very different from Angad in 'Kaisa Yeh Pyaar Hai'. While Angad is a musician, Shaurya is sporty. He plays golf and rugby. Since I enjoy the outdoors, I am looking forward to hitting the field."

What about hitting the right buttons for a perfectly balanced life?

"You mean a personal life? My girlfriend Sneha and I could tie the knot any time now, as soon as my parents in Kashmir give their nod to the marriage. I am sure this is just a formality. I am blessed with the best parents in the world," said Iqbal.

Coming back to the impending battle of the Khans on "Kavyanjali", Iqbal sees no danger signs ahead.

"I don't know Ejaz. We only spot each other when we are shooting in the same studio. We have never interacted much...but he looks like a decent person. Inshaallah, everything will work out fine." (IANS)