One of ZEE TV's top ranking musical shows 'Antakshari' is making a return in the new year, we can reveal.

The gameshow, which had been running on the channel since its launch in 1994 was axed in 2005 to make way for shows appealing to a younger audience.

The new 'Antakshari' will be hosted by Sunil Pal, who has been a part of STAR One's 'Great Laughter Challenge'. The show will be co-hosted by ZEE TV's protégé Himani Kapoor who was one of the finalists in 'Sa Re Ga Ma Pa -Challenge 2005'. The two stars are hoping to create the same magic that Anu Kapoor once did on the hugely popular programme.

It has also been confirmed that mastermind behind the show -Gajendra Singh will not be producing the new look show. He recently quit ZEE TV to work on his independent production company.

'ZEE Cinestars' was also launched by Gajendra Singh two years ago, however the new series, which is being produced by ZEE Network itself has not been successful as the first series, according to TV ratings in India.

Ashish says the show will be directed by an in-house team. But apparently the channel wants G. N. Shirsha, hitherto a director of photography, to lead the team. Confirming the news, Shirsha says, "Yes, I am at the helm of the new ‘Antakshari’ directorial team, but it is too early to reveal more."

Gajendra Singh however, has no regrets. He says, "I wish the show and channel all the best." About his own programmes, he says, "I am in talks with different people but nothing has been finalised."

Ashish Kaul, Sr.V.P., ZEE Telefilms says, "Even when television in India was still young, ‘Antakshari’ would get TVR of 74 but now such figures remain a dream. Our aim has always been to build communities around the programme and this show is also a huge success with Indian audiences abroad."

'Antakshari' will broadcast in its former slot -Sundays at 19:00, with a repeat telecast on Fridays at 17:30. The show starts on Sunday 7th January 2007.

Extracts from DNA

Related links:
Producer Gajendra Singh quits ZEE TV
ZEE TV to re-launch 'Antakshari'
Antakshari's Anu Kapoor set to depart from show