Rajan Shahi supported Hina Khan's casting despite doubts

Producer Rajan Shahi revealed that the channel was initially hesitant to cast Hina Khan as Akshara in "Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai." Despite their doubts, Shahi's confidence in her talent led to her eventual casting. Shahi took responsibility for Hina's transformation, overseeing styling and rehearsals. He also invested Rs 40 lakh in an outdoor shoot to ensure a strong start for the show, promising to refund the channel if it failed. The show has now transitioned to its fourth generation of leads, with Rohit Purohit and Samridhii Shukla currently starring. Hina Khan's early success as Akshara helped establish her as a household name.