Ekta Kapoor Slams Zee TV for Using ‘Pavitra Rishta’ Title Without Consent, Calls It “Creative Bankruptcy”

Renowned television producer Ekta Kapoor has strongly objected to the reuse of the iconic title ‘Pavitra Rishta’, accusing the makers of a new Zee TV show of using the name without her knowledge or permission. The original series, produced under her banner Balaji Telefilms, premiered in 2009 and went on to become one of Indian television’s most celebrated shows.

Taking to her Instagram Stories, Kapoor expressed her anger and disappointment, questioning both the creative integrity and ethical standards of the makers. She criticised the decision to reuse the title, stating that when creators fail to generate original ideas, they resort to borrowing from the legacy of others. Kapoor described this practice as a sign of “terrible ethics” and “creative and intellectual bankruptcy.”

She further remarked that there was “nothing sacred” about the way the title was reused, adding that such actions undermine originality and respect for creative ownership in the entertainment industry.

New Show Unrelated to Original ‘Pavitra Rishta’

The controversy arises ahead of the launch of Zee TV’s upcoming romantic drama titled ‘Pavitra Rishta’, created by Siddharth Vanekar and produced by Aman Sachdeva. The show stars Abrar Qazi and Priyanshi Yadav in lead roles, with Pallav Pradhan and Rupa Divetia also part of the cast. Despite sharing the same title, the new series has no creative or production connection to Ekta Kapoor’s original show.

According to reports, the show’s shooting is expected to begin in January, with a possible February premiere.

Audience Reacts, Sparks Online Debate

Ekta Kapoor’s sharp response has triggered a wider debate on social media, with viewers questioning the ethics of reusing iconic television titles and stressing the importance of originality in storytelling. Many fans have come out in support of Kapoor, calling ‘Pavitra Rishta’ an emotional legacy that should not be repurposed lightly.

Legacy of the Original Show

‘Pavitra Rishta’, which aired on Zee TV in 2009, starred the late Sushant Singh Rajput and Ankita Lokhande as Manav and Archana. The show portrayed the struggles, love, and sacrifices of a middle-class couple and remains deeply etched in the memory of Indian television audiences.