MUMBAI: One’s heart certainly goes out for Shahid Kapur. The actor has not had a single release without him being romantically paired with his lead heroine. From his first film Ishq Vishq to his forthcoming film, Kaminey, Kapur ‘s romantic liaisons have always overshadowed the actor’s acting skills and his films.

Stories of Kapur and Priyanka Chopra getting close to each other and the latter breaking up with her boyfriend Hurman S Baweja have been making the rounds ever since the first promo of Kaminey hit theatres. Coincidentally, Chopra is Kapur ‘s co-star in Kaminey. A friend close to the actor, said in complete disgust, "From his first release when he was paired opposite Amrita Rao, to his last release, Kismat Konnection with Vidya Balan, he has been linked up. And now with Kaminey coming up, it is Priyanka Chopra. Shahid has stopped making any statements as there is no stopping this."

Trade analysts are also skeptical about these alleged relationships coming to the fore prior to a release. Observing the trends, a trade researcher remarked, "In today’s time, a film will run only on its merit. Audiences have wizened up and are no longer susceptible to such marketing gimmicks."

The truth is Chopra and Baweja are still very much together. Neighbours of the Baweja household confirm that Chopra ‘s Mercedes is often parked till late night in front of his duplex. On Sunday night, close to the midnight hour, Chopra ‘s Merc was seen making its way to Baweja ‘s house. So, before rumours rubbish this relationship for the success of a film, spare a thought for the couple who are in the relationship and those who are not.