What's up with Dil Kya Chahta Hai?

Vikram Acharaya, who plays Akki in the show, recently went public with his grievances against the channel of not promoting the show enough. But on the other hand, it also cannot be denied that the channel has brought in significant changes in the show that has helped in the TRPs. They have brought in Abhinav Kashyap as the director; they have roped in celebrities and run a 12 hour marathon episode on 3 August.

"It is a fact that the on air promos have been less, but the channel has brought in a lot of innovations that have helped the show. It is a cool show, and I don't think it is going to go off air, if this was the case then they would not have done anything," says Gaurav Chopra, who plays Raghu.

Although both the actors tell us that after the contract for 39 episodes with the production house, InHouse productions has come to an end, they expect a raise in pay which according to Gaurav, is negotiable. "There are some monetary issues that have to be resolved, but that will come with time. Frankly, I have a whale of a time working on the show and really I want to continue," says Vikram.

While Gaurav is doing this one show on the channel, Vikram is also hosting Apni Tuning Jamegi that showcases the shows on Star One. The actor now maintains that he was misquoted in the press - quote or misquote, he has opened a can of worms as far as the

show is concerned.

InHouse productions have got an extension of five episodes and no one knows what the status of the show will be thereafter. "We have got an extension of five episodes and we are hoping that we continue, but it's the channel's call," explains producer, Sailesh Dave.

Another problem that has hit the show is that Sameer Soni might quit the show. Despite several calls and messages, the actor failed to confirm or deny the news, but our sources tell us that he won't be part of the five extended episodes. "Yes, it is a fact that Sameer is not shooting for us at present, but we haven't taken a decision on him. Let's see what happens at a later stage," says Sailesh.

What remains to be seen is that will a unique show like this sustain such complexities? And will a show that is built on male bonding survive the exit of one of its key member? Perhaps, Gaurav puts it most succinctly, "The show is above everything else. I am passionate about it and frankly, whatever might be the case, if the script is great nothing can hamper the show. It's going to continue!"

We hope so too.