'OTT platforms increase TV's outreach'
The rising popularity of web platforms might steal away the television audience. Do you fear that?
No, I don't fear that at all. In fact, the increasing popularity of web platforms has blurred the line between traditional linear TV and online TV programming; as a result of which viewers are no longer slaves to the TV sets. Now, they are free from the obligation of watching their favourite show at a specific hour, within the four walls of their home.
This flexibility has, in turn, increased the popularity of TV actors. So it is true that TRP of the television is going down, but the audience is just getting bigger.
'Web platform gives artistic freedom to actors'. Being a television actor, do you agree that the statement doesn't stand true for the TV industry?
I feel, the content available on the web is unique and interesting, but as an audience, I won't be comfortable watching many of those web shows with my family.
On the other hand, television offers you more filtered content – which some people might find boring, engaging or even cliché sometimes - but can surely watch it with family (including me).
Moreover, I believe every platform has its own audience. Web shows target a specific section of audience and not the general public. Therefore, we as television actors (or TV show makers) come forward to cater to the demands of other sections of the audience who are willing to watch family shows.
You are at the peak of your television career. At this point would you be willing to step out of the comfort zone of television and explore other mediums?
When you do something for a long time and are aware of the fact that audience has accepted you and love you in that particular way, it becomes a little difficult to step out and try something else. There is a risk involved in it. But I am the kind of person who loves taking challenges. I always try to break the stereotype and do something which nobody else is doing. I don't want the tag of a TV actor, film actor or web actor. I am an actor and I want to explore each and everything. So right now if you ask me, I don't mind taking any risk.
Nowadays it's comparatively easier to make a career in acting. Does that create pressure of getting replaced by the emerging talents?
Acting has always been an intensely competitive field. It is as difficult to create your niche in the industry as it was a few years back. Definitely, there are a lot of talented people coming in the industry because of which the competition is high, but at the same time, there are a lot of new things coming up, a lot of new mediums emerging. So there is a place for each and every one.
Having said that, I believe every actor has their own area of interest. Now, after a few years, I have discovered mine and I know that my only competition is myself. I'm not competing with anyone in the industry.
