Looks like the cold war on the sets of Madhubala - Ek Ishq Ek Junoon between telly stars Vivian Dsena (who essays RK) and Drashti Dhami (who plays the title role) has intensified.
Though they are cast opposite each other, they have not been on talking terms and they mind their own business on the sets. The buzz is that despite a zero personal equation, they however behave like professionals when shooting.
In March this year, Vivian had returned to the show barely two months after walking out of it after a generation leap. Speculation was rife that he was paid handsomely to return to the show as its popularity was dipping. Though the soap is not as popular as it was when it began two years ago, the two telly stars have a lot of fans who follow the show.
Says a unit source, `Ever since Vivian returned to the show, it has become an ego issue between them. When Vivian asks for date adjustments, Drishti comes up with her demands. The resentment between them has risen multifold. Vivian feels that the show is on air because of him, while Drashti feels that as the protagonist, the show owes it to her. Moreover, she feels that he did a volte-face --Vivian returned to the show after quitting it. And despite his alleged tantrums, he was given a fee hike. This is something she can't seem to digest. She didn't think that he would return to the show.`
Adds the source, `Vivian and Drashti just could not stand each other from Day One on the sets. They would keep out of each others' way and avoid rehearsals together before the shoot.`
Telly sources state that Madhubala was to be pulled off air, but as its replacement show was not in place it has now got a leeway and will be on for some more months. Vivian and Drashti remained unavailable for comment.
