Star Plus show Sairaab has found its new male lead amid the controversy surrounding actor Rohit Chandel. After weeks of speculation regarding the future of the show and Chandel’s involvement following his arrest in a POCSO case, the makers have reportedly finalised actor Aashay Mishra to take over the lead role opposite Madirakshi Mundle. The development comes after the production team explored multiple options while waiting for clarity on Chandel’s legal situation. With production schedules and telecast commitments to meet, the makers have now moved forward with a replacement, allowing the show’s original narrative to continue.
Aashay Mishra joins Sairaab as new male lead
Star Plus’ Sairaab is set to move ahead with a fresh lead pairing as actor Aashay Mishra has reportedly been finalised as the new male lead of the show. He will now star opposite Madirakshi Mundle, taking over the role that was originally being played by Rohit Chandel.
According to reports, discussions between Aashay Mishra and the production house had been underway for some time. Earlier, Gossips TV reported that the actor was in advanced talks with the makers. Sources close to the production have now told the portal that the deal has been finalised and that Aashay has already begun shooting for the show from today.
Aashay Mishra
The decision comes after the production team faced uncertainty following Rohit Chandel’s arrest earlier this month. The makers had initially hoped that the actor would secure bail quickly, which would have allowed them to continue with the original storyline without making major changes. However, after his bail applications were reportedly rejected twice, the channel and the production house accelerated their search for a replacement.
Aashay’s appointment is expected to help the makers continue with their planned plot while avoiding delays in production and telecast. The upcoming episodes will gradually introduce his character and establish the new on-screen dynamic with Madirakshi Mundle.
Aashay Mishra is not new to the production banner behind Sairaab. The actor has previously worked with the makers on shows such as Durga and Binddii, making him a familiar face for the creative team. His previous association with the production house is believed to have played a significant role in the casting decision. Since he is already familiar with the working style and creative vision of the team, the makers reportedly viewed him as a dependable choice during a challenging situation.
All about Rohit Chandel’s arrest
was arrested by the Pant Nagar Police from his Dahisar residence on July 10 after a minor girl accused him of stalking, repeatedly contacting her, harassing her and physically assaulting her. Following his arrest, the actor was produced before a special POCSO court. He was initially remanded to police custody and was later sent to judicial custody.
Rohit Chandel
According to the First Information Report (FIR), the complainant alleged that Chandel continued contacting her through his personal mobile number as well as other phone numbers despite being repeatedly asked to stop communication. The complaint further claimed that on July 5, the actor allegedly intercepted the 16-year-old near her residential society, followed her, got into a verbal altercation, abused her and physically assaulted her.
Based on the allegations, Rohit Chandel has been booked under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, along with Sections 78 (stalking) and 115(2) (voluntarily causing hurt) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
A police official had earlier confirmed the arrest and stated that a case had been registered and that further investigation into the matter was underway.