Shaan recently shared the surprising story behind his abrupt exit from Zee TV’s iconic singing reality show Sa Re Ga Ma Pa, a decision that not only boosted Aditya Narayan’s career but also came with a stark warning from Himesh Reshammiya.
Why Shaan Left Sa Re Ga Ma Pa
Shaan took over as the host of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa in 2002, following Sonu Nigam and the Bangash brothers. However, his tenure ended unexpectedly after his producer-director, Gajendra Singh, decided to leave Zee TV.
Singh moved to Star TV to launch a new show called ‘The Voice of India.’ Shaan felt a strong sense of loyalty to the person who had originally hired him, prompting him to quit Sa Re Ga Ma Pa during the transition period between seasons.
Himesh Reshammiya’s Warning
Before Shaan made his final decision, fellow music personality Himesh Reshammiya offered some strong advice. Shaan recalled Himesh warning him, “Don’t leave Sa Re Ga Ma Pa or Zee TV.”
Himesh went a step further, comparing Shaan’s potential move to “what Mahima Chaudhary had done to herself.” At the time, Shaan didn’t fully grasp the meaning of this comparison.
The “Mahima Chaudhary” Analogy Explained
Shaan later understood Himesh’s analogy, which referred to an incident involving actor Mahima Chaudhary. She had reportedly turned down an offer to join the UK series ‘Big Brother.’
That opportunity then went to Shilpa Shetty, who accepted it and became a global phenomenon after winning the show. Shilpa’s success on ‘Big Brother’ even led her to host the second season of Bigg Boss in India.
Aditya Narayan Steps In
With Shaan’s departure, Aditya Narayan stepped in as the new host of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa. Shaan humorously acknowledged that in this particular scenario, Aditya became the “Shilpa Shetty” of their story, while he was the “Mahima Chaudhary.”
Despite this, Shaan clarified that he holds no regrets. He noted that ‘The Voice of India’ also performed well, and he continued to receive many reality show hosting gigs.
Aditya’s Successful Run
Shaan has always been gracious about Aditya Narayan’s success. He previously stated that the show’s popularity primarily depends on the contestants’ talent, with the host being secondary. He also praised Aditya for doing a great job and making the show popular.
Aditya Narayan himself hosted Sa Re Ga Ma Pa for an impressive 15 years, spanning nine seasons and 350 episodes. He eventually bid farewell to his hosting duties in 2022, reflecting on the show that gave him his “own identity as an adult.”
- Shaan quit Sa Re Ga Ma Pa out of loyalty to his producer, Gajendra Singh.
- Himesh Reshammiya warned Shaan, comparing his decision to Mahima Chaudhary’s career choice regarding ‘Big Brother.’
- Aditya Narayan became the popular host of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa after Shaan’s exit.
- Shaan maintained a successful career despite the switch, acknowledging Aditya’s rise.
The incident highlights the unpredictable nature of career decisions in the entertainment industry and how one person’s path can open doors for another.
