Sources say the extension doesn’t have anything to do with the TRP game. “It is not uncommon for channels to do that for programming benefits, but since there was no other programme to take over from Sa Re Ga Ma Pa during weekends, the channel decided to stretch its run by a fortnight,” a source reveals.

Aditya, we hear, had committed to be part of the show till July 3. However, with a change in plan and consequently, the young singer’s unavailability, the makers have roped in two stand-in hosts — Annu Kapoor and Jay Bhanushali.

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“Aditya couldn’t give the channel more dates due to prior commitments; he is going out of the country. They have now got Kapoor, who used to host Antakshri, to host one episode while Jay will be part of another two,” says a source.

Jay confirms that he will host two episodes. “We will begin shooting today. There are three episodes; I have the first and third one while Annu Kapoor will host the second. The channel has approached me to host the finalé as well, but we are still in talks. The decision is under wraps,” adds Jay.

Another source claims the channel has managed to secure Aditya’s date to return for the finalé.

Aditya and the channel’s spokesperson remained unavailable for comment.

It is believed that the makers are trying to get big names for the grand finalé. “Since Salman Khan already came in as a guest last weekend, they may try and get Akshay Kumar, who is promoting his upcoming release, Rustom.”