Neelu Vaghela replaces Shagufta Ali in Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai
ETimes | July 25, 2026 10:39 PM CST
Shagufta Ali , who was set to join Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai for its upcoming two-year leap, is no longer a part of the show. The veteran actress had been finalised to play Aaditya Gupta ’s grandmother, but had to opt out before filming due to health reasons. The makers have now brought in Neelu Vaghela , popularly known for playing Bhabho in Diya Aur Baati Hum , to essay the role.
A source associated with the show informs, “Shagufta ji had been finalised for the role and was expected to begin shooting soon. However, due to health-related issues, she couldn’t continue with the project. Since the character is an important part of the post-leap storyline, the makers had to find a replacement quickly. They have now finalised Neelu Vaghela for the role. The character remains unchanged, and she is expected to begin shooting shortly.”
While Shagufta Ali couldn’t be reached for comment, Neelu Vaghela requested us to call her later.
The casting change comes as the makers put the final touches to the ensemble for the show’s upcoming two-year leap. We had earlier reported that Aaditya Gupta and Aadesh Chaudhry had joined the cast. We had also exclusively reported that Aastha Chaudhary had come on board. Joining her is Kuldeep Singh , who was last seen in Anupamaa. Aastha will portray the mother of Aaditya Gupta’s character, while Kuldeep will essay his onscreen father. Aaditya is set to play the male lead opposite Maira, portrayed by Arshiya Sharma . Aadesh, meanwhile, will be seen as Aastha's elder brother-in-law.
With Neelu Vaghela replacing Shagufta Ali, the principal cast for the upcoming post-leap chapter is now nearly in place. While Shagufta had to step away owing to health reasons, Neelu’s entry adds another seasoned actor to the family drama as it prepares to begin a new phase with a refreshed cast.
A source associated with the show informs, “Shagufta ji had been finalised for the role and was expected to begin shooting soon. However, due to health-related issues, she couldn’t continue with the project. Since the character is an important part of the post-leap storyline, the makers had to find a replacement quickly. They have now finalised Neelu Vaghela for the role. The character remains unchanged, and she is expected to begin shooting shortly.”
While Shagufta Ali couldn’t be reached for comment, Neelu Vaghela requested us to call her later.
The casting change comes as the makers put the final touches to the ensemble for the show’s upcoming two-year leap. We had earlier reported that Aaditya Gupta and Aadesh Chaudhry had joined the cast. We had also exclusively reported that Aastha Chaudhary had come on board. Joining her is Kuldeep Singh , who was last seen in Anupamaa. Aastha will portray the mother of Aaditya Gupta’s character, while Kuldeep will essay his onscreen father. Aaditya is set to play the male lead opposite Maira, portrayed by Arshiya Sharma . Aadesh, meanwhile, will be seen as Aastha's elder brother-in-law.
With Neelu Vaghela replacing Shagufta Ali, the principal cast for the upcoming post-leap chapter is now nearly in place. While Shagufta had to step away owing to health reasons, Neelu’s entry adds another seasoned actor to the family drama as it prepares to begin a new phase with a refreshed cast.
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