By Anil Merani: The time slot changes for Ghum Hai Kisikey Pyaar Meiin (GHKKPM) have sparked debate about whether they signal the show’s decline, with some fans calling it “the last nail in the coffin.” However, the situation is more nuanced, and while the changes reflect challenges, they don’t necessarily spell doom for the show.
GHKKPM, a Star Plus staple since October 2020, has undergone multiple time slot shifts in 2025, primarily due to declining TRP ratings post its generational leap. Initially airing at 8:00 PM, the show moved to 7:50 PM on February 18, 2025, to accommodate a new supernatural drama, Jaadu Teri Nazar, at 8:15 PM. By March, it shifted further to 7:30 PM, and as of April 21, 2025, it now airs from 7:10 PM to 8:00 PM, following the postponement of Kabhi Neem Neem Kabhi Shehed Shehed. Additionally, its runtime was reduced from 30 minutes to 22 minutes starting February 18, reflecting a strategic move to bolster the channel’s prime-time lineup amid falling viewership.
The show’s TRP struggles are evident. Once a top performer, GHKKPM slipped to 11th place with a 1.4 rating by March 2025, a sharp drop attributed to the latest leap introducing new leads—Param Singh (Neil), Vaibhavi Hankare (Tejaswini), and Sanam Johar (Rituraj). Fan sentiment on X reflects frustration, with posts questioning the show’s direction, stating, “Why this show is even on air? How many experiential tracks or actors replacement makers are planning to do?” The frequent leaps and cast changes, including the exit of popular actors like Bhavika Sharma and Hitesh Bharadwaj in January 2025, have alienated some viewers, who feel the show’s legacy is being diluted.
However, calling the time slot change the “last nail in the coffin” may be premature. The 7:10 PM slot could attract a different audience segment, such as viewers available earlier in the evening, and the show’s engaging love triangle and upcoming twists—like Neil’s proposal to Tejaswini—continue to generate buzz. Star Plus’s promotional efforts, including a reel featuring Munawar Faruqui, aim to reinvigorate interest. It’s important to remember that GHKKPM has a history of resilience, having weathered challenges like production halts during COVID-19, and maintained a strong fanbase over 1,500 episodes. This history of resilience instills confidence in the show’s ability to overcome the current situation.
Comparing GHKKPM to Megha Barsenge, which thrives on consistent storytelling despite modest TRPs, suggests that audience loyalty can sustain a show. While the time slot changes highlight GHKKPM’s struggles, its adaptability and ongoing narrative could keep it afloat, provided the makers address fan concerns about repetitive leaps. For now, it’s a critical juncture, not a funeral, and the show’s strong fanbase is a source of reassurance.