If industry speculation is to be believed, Sony Entertainment Television Asia could be axing 'Viruddh' to make way for Ekta Kapoor's new offering.

Incidentally Smriti Z Irani who produces 'Viruddh' left the character of Tulsi in Ekta Kapoor's soap 'Kyunki Saans Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi' to concentrate on her own productions. This however has not proved the best bet according to latest TRPs (TV ratings). 'Viruddh', which airs in the 21:30 slot, has struggled due to competition from other channels.

Mumbai Mirror has reported that Smriti's contract with the channel comes to a close next month, as she will complete filming 104 episodes by then. Channel officials are not keen to renew the contract of 'Viruddh' as they may settle for the new Ekta Kapoor soap instead.

While Smriti ensured big publicity plans for the show, it never really went down well with the viewers. Also, it was an expensive show for the channel as the cast included popular faces like Achint Kaur and Sushant Singh. Says a reliable source (to Mumbai Mirror) from the channel, "A lot of money was involved as we had big telly stars. Unfortunately, the show never commanded high TRPs. We have had several meetings with Smriti's creative team but nothing could get the show working. We are unlikely to renew the contract as we are getting a new show to replace it."

Sony Entertainment Television Asia recently announced plans for new Ekta Kapoor soaps to air on the channel in the coming months. The recently launched ‘Khwaish' has got off to a slow start.

Related links:
New Balaji soap comes early on Sony TV
Balaji Telefilms to produce three soaps for Sony
Sony's latest weapon 'Viruddh' in ratings war
Smriti Z Irani "quits" STAR Plus' 'Kyunki Saans...'