Ekta Kapoor with Hiten Tejwani, the lead actor of Pavitra Rishta

Why bring in a generation leap in Pavitra Rishta (on Zee TV)?

It was always a part of the plan and is, in fact, two months late as I was busy with other projects. I am to blame for the fall in ratings and the plot that hasn’t been able to hook viewers. The story was getting saturated. Additionally, the lead (Sushant Rajput) was quitting but thankfully, Hiten (Tejwani) has been very well accepted as Manav. The channel did give me the option to end the show but I know that we have a lot to tell in this story.

In what way can the audience expect the story to go forward?

All shows explore a marriage in its first 15 years and I feel it’s the latter phase that no one has still dealt with on Indian television. People need companionship as they grow older, and how Manav and Archana relate to each other at this stage is very interesting for me to explore. Look at my parents (Jeetendra and Shobha) — they relate to each other so well. At times they just have to exchange a look to convey something.

Don’t you think when actors portray characters older than their age, they get typecast?

I think it’s a myth. Today’s audiences are very smart. They respect actors for their talent; they do not stereotype an actor. Saakshi Tanwar played a 60-year-old in Kahaani Ghar Ghar Kii and after that she played much younger characters. She’s doing a wonderful job in Bade Achhe Lagte Hain. I think as a producer I have to break this myth. Otherwise actors will hesitate to portray such characters.

You always seem to convince your actresses to play mom, but do they agree easily?

Nahin maante hain toh filmon mein chale jaate hain… I know one thing for sure ki jo TV ko chhodte hain, TV unhe chhod deta hai.

Is there any similarity in the relationship between Archana (Ankita Lokhande) and her mother in Pavitra Rishta and you and your mother?

Yes, I’m nothing without my mother. In that respect, Pavitra Rishta is autobiographical. She keeps a check on me, scolds me when I gain weight or do something wrong. She’s my backbone and watches my back for me. My dad pampers me but it’s my mom with whom I can discuss everything. My mom pampers (brother) Tusshar and is very strict with me.

How did your mother react to The Dirty Picture?

She’s seen all my films. She really liked Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai but told me that she loved The Dirty Picture more. It felt good to hear her say it.

Finally, who are you seeing now?

Where are the guys? The good guys are either married or taken. Please tell all eligible men that I’m single and absolutely ready to mingle!