Article:BIG war between Ekta and Smriti

T he professional equation has been far from endurable between Ektaa Kapoor and Smriti Z Iraani ever since the lat- ter launched her own production house and got busy with her political commitments. Pay up Now, it seems Iraani has quoted a figure of Rs 3 lakh a day to continue as Tulsi in Kyunkii Saas Bhi kabhi Tulsi Thi. This demand has created a serious wedge between Kapoor and Iraani. Most actors believe that Balaji is mak- ing sufficient money from the K-shows to hike their fees. Rumours about Iraani holding back dates have been gaining credence with drastic changes in the Kyunkii script and with her continued absence. This was obvious when Krishna Tulsi was raped.. Tulsi's presence was crucial to the storyline. Image matters Iraani's political career hinges on her Tulsi image. She has repeatedly voiced concern- whenever a rape scene is incorporated in the storyline. Besides this, there are ideological differences between Kapoor and Iraani. In the event, the creative heads at Balaji are often forced to write sub-plots that don't involve Iraani's presence. Kapoor had contemplated throwing out Iraani but was convinced by the channel not to take such a drastic step, saying TRPs would be affected and it would result in negative pub- licity. They were hoping that once Virrudh was launched, Iraani would allocate dates for Kyunkii.. But, even now, the unit keeps waiting for Iraani. They are managing the show by cheat- ing shots of Iraani or using a body double. She is committed to shoot for the serial till May- end. Hunt for Tulsi? Balaji has begun the hunt for another 'Tulsi' (or another character as strong as her). Gau- tami Gadgil, Padmini Kolhapure and Poon- am Dhillon have been approached. The idea is to allow viewers to get used to another strong character besides Tulsi.. till she can be bumped off completely. According to insiders, Iraani will take a break from playing Tulsi and change of any kind will take place from May 21 to 25. That Kapoor had once given Iraani a free hand in essaying the role of Tulsi and in pursuing her creative ambitions is undeni- able. But ever since Iraani set up Ugraya Entertainment, the actress has seen success with her two plays and two TV serials Thodi Si Zameen, Thodi Si Aasman and Virrudh. Who's to blame? It is also widely known that the Kapoors indulge in high-handed behaviour. Now that Iraani is a producer, she sees no reason to tolerate rude behaviour. Balaji does things at the last moment . No artist e can plan his or her life while working with the production house. Many have left secure pay cheques from Balaji because of unreasonable demands. This is the third instance in the last three years that Iraani has hiked up demands. The first time she had asked for more money. Next, she insisted that Balaji co-pro- duce her first TV serial on Star Plus. Now again, it's more money. Both Kapoor and Iraani were unavail- able for comment. Naturally.