Showing posts with label Sumeet Mittal. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Sumeet Mittal. Show all posts
A 10-hour shift isn’t enough to shoot a daily soap, say producers
8:13 AM
While show makers are keen to resume shooting in Mumbai, they hope that working hours will be increased to meet telecast deadlines
Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; June 8, 2021)
‘IMPOSSIBLE TO SHOOT AN EPISODE IN 10 HOURS’
Talking about the challenges that makers are bound to face, J D Majethia, who is the producer of Wagle Ki Duniya - Nayi Peedhi Naye Kissey and also the chairman of Indian Films and Television Producers Council (IFTPC), says, “We hope shoots resume in Maharashtra later this month. We are waiting for an official announcement from the state government regarding the date. While other challenges like winding the current storyline that was tweaked to accommodate the change in the location, and shooting in a bio-bubble, can be dealt with easily, our biggest concern is the number of shooting hours. It’s practically impossible to shoot an episode in 10 hours when the show is telecast six days a week.”
He further adds, “We should not forget that the monsoon is all set to arrive in Mumbai, which tends to delay the shooting process. We hope that the authorities will take our request into account and extend the number of hours.”
‘EAGER TO SHOOT IN MUMBAI AGAIN’
Show makers are keen to return to Mumbai, but there are various production matters that need to be taken care of. Amir Jaffar, who has three shows on air (Tujhse Hai Raabta, Aapki Nazron Ne Samjha and Qurbaan Hua), shares, “Everyone is eagerly waiting to return home. It will be good to be back, ghar toh jaane milega sabko. However, before that, we have to take stock of a lot of things. First and foremost is the renovation of the set owing to the damage caused by Cyclone Tauktae. Apart from that, we still need clarity over the shooting hours. One would need a full shift to finish work and meet the deadline.”
IS SHOOTING IN A BIO-BUBBLE FOOLPROOF?
Sumeet Mittal, producer of shows like Barrister Babu and Kyun Utthe Dil Chhod Aaye, says, “I have heard that the issue of shooting hours is going to be reviewed soon. The practical aspect of shooting will be put forward to the authorities again. While I am not certain about the date when the shoot will resume in Maharashtra, I hope we are granted sufficient shooting hours. We will be shooting in a bio-bubble and strictly adhering to the protocols.”
However, Saurabh Tewari, the producer of Pinjara Khubsurti Ka, says that a bio-bubble isn’t a foolproof way of working. He adds, “It’s not possible to make actors stay on set, and one can’t be certain that there will be no contact with the outside world. Since there are a lot of uncertainties around the resuming of the shoot in Maharashtra, I believe that most producers will continue working the way they have been for the past one-and-a-half months for some more time till we get clarity and shooting resumes in Mumbai. We will have to wait to see what kind of restrictions come into force. It’s better to return home when the restrictions are minimum and the situation is better and under control.”
Daily soaps rely on bank of episodes, but how long will it suffice?
8:22 AM
Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; April 15, 2021)
Ved Raj, who has two shows on air including Apna Time Bhi Aayega, says, “We were prepared for this. I am assuming that almost every producer shot aggressively and created a bank of episodes, which will last till Tuesday or Wednesday. Re-runs are always the last option as no one makes money. The idea is to work hard, entertain the audience and keep the business afloat.”
The decision to air re-runs of a new show or air old shows will be taken by channels. As Saurabh Tewari, producer of Pinjara Khubsurti Ka, says, “I don’t think any producer will have a bank of episodes that will suffice for more than a week, which means that we will be able to telecast fresh episodes till next Wednesday. If the matter isn’t resolved and we don’t resume the shoot, we will have to opt for repeats like last year. It will be the broadcaster’s prerogative whether they bring back old shows or air re-runs of their current shows. However, I doubt that will generate any revenue in such a situation. It will be a huge business loss.”
Benaifer Kohli, who has three shows on air, including Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai!, says, “I have a bank of episodes that will suffice for more than two weeks. The only show without a healthy bank is Jijaji Chhat Parr Koii Hai, as it went on air recently. So, the channel will decide whether they will telecast re-runs. If I have to move to another city, I would want to make sure that it’s safe for my unit to shoot there. It’s a temporary compromise that we will be making for everybody’s livelihood.”
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Meanwhile, on reality shows...
Tanvi Trivedi (BOMBAY TIMES; April 15, 2021)
Reality shows like Dance Deewane, Indian Pro Music League and Indian Idol have shot in advance and will manage the telecast for the next two weeks. Arvind Rao, producer of Dance Deewane, says, “The issues will start after the next weekend because we don’t have episodes in the bank. We are hoping for the best outcome of our meeting with the CM. As of now, we have halted the shoot.” Along with Rao, judge Dharmesh Yelande and many crew members had tested positive for Coronavirus two weeks ago.
Like Dance Deewane, Indian Idol, too, saw host Aditya Narayan test positive. Contestant Pawandeep Rajan has also been unwell. A source said, “Last year, we were contemplating to relocate the set to Hyderabad and shoot the episodes from there, but this year, there has been no such talk as yet. We will wait till next week and see how things go.”
Whenever shoots resume, reality show makers are toying with the idea of creating a bio-bubble, like sports tournaments have done so far. Ranjeet Thakur, producer of Super Dancer, says, “The cost of creating a bio bubble will be higher, but safety will be maintained. In case of a bio-bubble, we keep the entire crew (technicians) on the set as long as the shoot lasts. The contestants are also on the set, but in another zone. The judges travel from their homes, shoot for two episodes and only then can they leave the set. Before we start shooting, everyone has to undergo the COVID-19 test, and they are not allowed to come in contact with anyone outside the unit. In the case of a fiction show, a similar exercise can be followed.”
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TV actors on state government's decision of halting TV shoots
Riya Sharma and Farzana Patowari (BOMBAY TIMES; April 15, 2021)
ERICA FERNANDES:
This time, last year we were new to it, but today we are prepared. If offices and other places are shut, then studios should be, too. As a matter of fact, shooting for movies and shows is riskier than working in an office.
DEEPSHIKHA NAGPAL:
I don’t know how production houses are going to deal with this situation. However, the restrictions are necessary as COVID-19 cases are increasing rapidly and people are not taking necessary precautions. I am sad about our show’s shoot, but whatever the government has decided is to contain the spread of coronavirus.
SHARAD MALHOTRA:
This is upsetting and disheartening for all because the entertainment industry along with the other sectors was barely getting back on its feet post the lockdown that happened last year, and now, it’s like history repeating itself. For the television fraternity where new content needs to be churned out daily and deadlines have to be met, it will be challenging to cope up with this situation.
HUNAR GANDHI:
Among the worst affected in the second wave is Maharashtra and the situation called for stringent measures. There are so many people who have tested positive for COVID-19 in the entertainment industry as well. I, too, got infected, but thankfully I have recovered. However, there were so many who lost their lives to it. Yes, our livelihood depends on it but life hai toh livelihood hogi na, so I feel till the time the cases lessen we should all co-operate and respect the decision that has been taken. This is the reason I am in Gurugram and not taking a flight back to Mumbai.
ROOPAL TYAGI:
We are still talking to the production house and figuring things out. This lockdown though necessary wasn’t something we anticipated. Our show, Ranju ki Betiyaan, has been doing very well and we were looking forward to maintaining the momentum. But, of course, health comes first. We will try and make the most of this break as well and stay positive.
SHASHANK VYAS:
I honestly don’t know how to react to this. It’s a good move considering the rise in the number of cases, but stopping the shoot means the entertainment industry will suffer a huge loss, especially the shows that are on air and the films that are currently being shot. The last time it happened for more than three months and I am sure many won’t even have episodes in the bank. It’s a tough situation, but I am sure, together we will overcome this, too.
SHAGUN PANDEY:
Yes, it’s sad that shoots have been stopped, but I also feel it is for the greater good. We need to probably start taking more precautions or shift our shoots to places where work can progress smoothly. Unlike the last time, I am better prepared. I know what to do and what my schedule is going to be like. I hope we get back to work soon.
ACHHERR BHAARDWAJ:
Seeing the rising cases of the COVID 19 virus, whatever the government has decided is necessary to break the chain. However, we cannot ignore the fact that there will be people who will be affected by this, especially the crew, which works on daily wages. I hope producers or channels take care of them.
Should TV actors get royalty for the re-runs? Industry reacts
8:30 AM
Prashant Singh (HINDUSTAN TIMES; May 2, 2020)
Makers, on their part, feel the subject [of royalty] can be discussed but the “timing is probably not right”. “What we are going through is a ‘difficult, adjustment time’ wherein there’s a question of survival. And the same [business] model has been there from the start. Re-runs of shows have been happening forever. It’s all a part of a broadcasters’ long-term investment plan. However, talks about royalty are a healthy sign. But maybe, the timing of monetary benefits talk isn’t right,” says TV producer Sumeet Mittal.
Chikhlia has reportedly said that “money doesn’t harm anybody”, and how Ramayan actors “were [originally] paid peanuts”. While Joshi apparently feels “it should have been introduced long back”, Vashisht says the “industry is not thoughtful in terms of royalties”. TV director-producer Rajan Shahi adds, “If an actor has pointed anything, it must be respected, and discussed with the industry as a whole. It can’t be decided upon in isolation since there are various stakeholders involved.”Experts feel everything also boils down to the contracts. “Vis-à-vis royalties, it’s all about a contract’s finer details,” says trade analyst Taran Adarsh. Shahi concurs and says, “Yes it all depends on the contract. But don’t forget that makers also take a lot of risk because only two out of 10 shows do well. But there can be a democratic discussion on it.”
Doordarshan emerges as the most-watched channel across genres
8:24 AM
As Doordarshan bags top slot among the most-watched channels, we find out what’s attracting audiences to old, iconic shows
Prashant Singh (HINDUSTAN TIMES; April 13, 2020)
Back in the ’80s and ’90s, Doordarshan’s viewership would regularly go through the roof. And then, private GECs (general entertainment channels) took over. But now, history is repeating itself as DD — as per the data by Broadcast Audience Research Council-Nielsen — has emerged as the most-watched channel across genres, in the week of March 28 to April 3. In the week before that (March 21-27), DD National didn’t even feature in the top 10 most-viewed channels in Hindi GECs category.During the ongoing national lockdown due to Coronavirus, DD has brought back many of its iconic shows such as Ramayan, Mahabharat and Shaktimaan. And the idea has worked. As per the data, DD National’s viewership went up to 580 million impressions in the 9 am-10.30 am slot [in the week of March 28 to April 3], compared to one million impressions in the previous week. Likewise, in the 9 pm-10.30 pm slot, the corresponding numbers stood at 835 million impressions, which was two million in the previous week.
TV industry insiders and experts feel DD shows “will always have a strong emotional connect and recall value.” “They will always remain classics. Also, these days, when people’s mood is gloomy, these shows bring positivity, and also make for a great family watch. Plus, they also stand out for their innate simplicity,” says TV director-producer Rajan Shahi. For trade analyst Taran Adarsh, it goes on to “prove the power of quality content”. “That’s why even if one may not have heard of the actors who worked in them, the shows still attract people,” he says.According to TV producer Sumeet Mittal, people will “always have loads of nostalgia attached to DD shows”. “Also, there are no fresh episodes of the new shows. But it’s great that people are reconnecting to the classics,” he says.
Shaktimaan actor-producer, Mukesh Khanna puts things in perspective: “It’s a great move by DD to bring back the iconic shows, which were extremely rich in content and educative, too. Today’s kids need much more ‘maarg darshan’ than the kids of that time,” he says.
Coronavirus crisis hits tellyland; Will you get to watch your daily soaps?
8:00 AM
Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; March 17, 2020)
In a bid to tackle the ongoing Coronavirus crisis, it has been decided that shoots of all TV shows will be suspended from March 19 till March 31. The decision was taken on Sunday, in a meeting between the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE), Indian Film and Television Producers Council (IFTPC), Indian Motion Picture Producers Association (IMPPA), Indian Film and Television Directors’ Association (IFTDA), Western India Producers’ Association (WIPA). J D Majethia, chairman, IFTPC and producer of Bhakharwadi, informs, “Serial production is a vulnerable business. If shoots come to a halt, it leads to unbearable losses. However, nothing is more important than human life. As they say, the show will definitely go on, but we have taken a break to support the industry, state, country and the world at large.”
GET READY FOR RERUNS AND RECAPS
Despite commencing shoots in advance, it’s almost impossible to create a bank of episodes of TV shows. Reason: The storyline undergoes several changes based on the audience’s feedback and ratings. However, given the current scenario, an attempt is being made to shoot as many episodes as possible in a limited time, so that the audience isn’t deprived of their daily dose of entertainment. If the shoots don’t commence even after the banks of episodes are exhausted, viewers will get to see reruns of their favourite soaps.
Actress Aneri Vajani, who is seen in Pavitra Bhagya, says, “We are putting in more hours so that maximum number of episodes can be shot. Everyone is cooperating, and I hope that we meet the deadline. But more importantly, I hope this virus gets eliminated soon.”
Aishwarya Sakhuja, who plays Mahima Srinivasan in Yeh Hai Chahatein, adds, “We don’t have a bank of episodes, but I am glad that a lockdown has been declared. This suspension is the need of the hour. Hundreds of people work on our sets every day. Of these, many use public transport and they are at an increased risk of COVID-19 infection. So, let’s take a break and get back stronger.”
Ashish Chowdhry, who is currently seen in Beyhadh 2, agrees that a ‘no show’ will have an adverse effect on the viewership. He says, “It will make a difference because people will lose their flow of watching shows and the habit will break. I hope we make some good reruns and recaps to keep them hooked.”
PAID LEAVES FOR DAILY WAGERS
While business will be affected, it’s daily-wage workers who will suffer maximum because of the lockdown. Ashok Dubey, general secretary FWICE, says, “Our members comprise at least 90 per cent of the unit. The decision has come as a huge blow to them, but nothing is more important than life. If anything happens to them, their families will suffer, too. We had issued a circular on March 5, instructing every producer to implement safety measures, but some of them didn’t implement them. Hence, we had to arrive at this decision to ensure everyone’s safety.”
Talking about the provision of paid leaves for the daily wagers during the shutdown phase, he adds, “The producers have told us that they will have a discussion with the broadcasters about this.”
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PRODUCERS WELCOME THE MOVE
This is the best decision we could have taken for the industry. I am thankful to the broadcasters, producers and other associations for joining hands to curb the spread of the virus. We have taken precautionary measures on our set — right from installing a fumigation machine to a doctor examining every member of the unit, and arranging for masks and sanitisers. However, these are only basic preventive measures. The best prevention is to exercise selfquarantine. The daily wagers will be badly affected, so I would urge every producer to give them half a day’s salary for the duration they won’t be shooting. They are our families and we can’t function without them. This is the least we can do to look after them. We have already promised them paid leaves if they are unwell, but with the shutdown coming into effect, we should help them sustain in these difficult times.
— Benaifer Kohli, producer of Bhabi Ji Ghar Par Hain!
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A decision has been taken to stop all shoots, but other factors like telecast and ratings are still under discussion. A decision will be taken after a meeting between the producers and broadcasters, which is slated to take place soon. For now, we are working at breakneck speed to create a back of episodes. On March 30, we shall a take call on the next course of action after analysing the situation.
— Sumeet Mittal, producer of Shubharambh
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The health and safety of our team members are of paramount importance. I am not even taking into consideration the monetary loss or ratings. All that is secondary when it comes to human lives. In fact, along with the broadcaster, I have postponed the launch of my show, Anupamaa. For now, I have a bank of fresh episodes of Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, which will last for a week. At a time like this, we can’t have double standards. We can’t have our families stay safe at home and expect the unit to work. I am sure the broadcasters and producers will devise an alternate plan for their respective shows. We can’t have fresh episodes and reruns going on air together.
— Rajan Shahi, producer of Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai and Yeh Rishte Hain Pyaar Ke
Controversial TV show Pehredaar Piya Ki goes off air
8:12 AM
Tanvi Trivedi (BOMBAY TIMES; August 30, 2017)
Despite being re-designated
to a late night time slot of 10.30 pm following the furore that raged
around its plot of a 10-year-old boy marrying an 18-year old girl,
Pehredaar Piya Ki (PPK) is in the news again - but this time for being
yanked off air abruptly! The television industry was abuzz, when the
show did not air in the new time slot on August 28. The channel, on
which it aired, released a statement, confirming the new development,
“Effective from August 28, 2017, we are pulling off our programme,
Pehredaar Piya Ki, from television. While we understand that the decision to end this serial will
be disappointing to those whose creative energies are vested in it,
namely, its crew and cast, we (as a channel) are convinced that we will
be better served by focusing instead
on developing viewer interest in our upcoming shows. We are grateful to
all the artistes, producers and fans of our shows and request you to
graciously support the viewership of our new ventures.“
It was learnt that the makers, Shashi and Sumeet Mittal, had stopped shooting the show since August 28. The decision to end the show was taken by the producers after the Broadcasting Content Complaints Council (BCCC) asked the channel to move the show from its 8.30 pm slot to the 10.30 pm slot. The timings were changed when an online petition demanding a ban on the show was forwarded to Information and Broadcasting Minister Smriti Irani, which she forwarded to the BCCC on August 16.
What was found objectionable about PPK's story is that it showed a marriage between a 10-year-old boy and an 18-yearold girl. According to reports, the petition had also listed out certain scenes as objectionable: A 10-year-old impressionable boy ('piyaa') was shown caressing and stalking a lady who's almost twice his age, and filling 'sindoor' in her 'maang'. It was telecast at prime time. Imagine the kind of influence it can have on the viewers' mindset. We want a ban on the serial. We do not want our kids to be influenced by such shows.“
However, Sumeet Mittal has always maintained that his show did not have any objectionable content. In an interview, before the show went off air, he said, “The show is about the hardships faced by a little boy. While we respect the decision taken by the BCCC, pushing the show to the 10.30 pm slot has forced us to discontinue. It defeats our purpose of airing the show for family audience at 8.30 pm. The audiences in smaller towns won't be up till 10.30 pm to watch our show.“
He had also dismissed reports of the show planning a time leap. “Without establishing the young boy's story, we did not want to take a time leap just to hold on to our viewers. We would rather return with a new concept and a brand new show and work with the same actors all over again,“ Sumeet added.
Despite the odds, the producers are not bitter about the show ending prematurely. However, they are saddened by how people termed it regressive without even watching it. Sumeet continues, “Our show was not really high on the rating ladder for it to become a topic of discussion for the entire nation. A section of internet users, who had not watched the show, started this massive debate and decided to write a petition asking for a ban. These people were not even our real viewers.“
In its one-month-10-day-run, PPK has only been in the centre of controversies. While social media was raging against it, there were criticisms within the television industry , too. One of the first to voice his displeasure was actor Karan Wahi.
----------------------------It was learnt that the makers, Shashi and Sumeet Mittal, had stopped shooting the show since August 28. The decision to end the show was taken by the producers after the Broadcasting Content Complaints Council (BCCC) asked the channel to move the show from its 8.30 pm slot to the 10.30 pm slot. The timings were changed when an online petition demanding a ban on the show was forwarded to Information and Broadcasting Minister Smriti Irani, which she forwarded to the BCCC on August 16.
What was found objectionable about PPK's story is that it showed a marriage between a 10-year-old boy and an 18-yearold girl. According to reports, the petition had also listed out certain scenes as objectionable: A 10-year-old impressionable boy ('piyaa') was shown caressing and stalking a lady who's almost twice his age, and filling 'sindoor' in her 'maang'. It was telecast at prime time. Imagine the kind of influence it can have on the viewers' mindset. We want a ban on the serial. We do not want our kids to be influenced by such shows.“
However, Sumeet Mittal has always maintained that his show did not have any objectionable content. In an interview, before the show went off air, he said, “The show is about the hardships faced by a little boy. While we respect the decision taken by the BCCC, pushing the show to the 10.30 pm slot has forced us to discontinue. It defeats our purpose of airing the show for family audience at 8.30 pm. The audiences in smaller towns won't be up till 10.30 pm to watch our show.“
He had also dismissed reports of the show planning a time leap. “Without establishing the young boy's story, we did not want to take a time leap just to hold on to our viewers. We would rather return with a new concept and a brand new show and work with the same actors all over again,“ Sumeet added.
Despite the odds, the producers are not bitter about the show ending prematurely. However, they are saddened by how people termed it regressive without even watching it. Sumeet continues, “Our show was not really high on the rating ladder for it to become a topic of discussion for the entire nation. A section of internet users, who had not watched the show, started this massive debate and decided to write a petition asking for a ban. These people were not even our real viewers.“
In its one-month-10-day-run, PPK has only been in the centre of controversies. While social media was raging against it, there were criticisms within the television industry , too. One of the first to voice his displeasure was actor Karan Wahi.
Natasha Coutinho (MUMBAI MIRROR; August 30, 2017)
Alittle over a month after its July 17 launch on Sony, TV drama Pehredaar Piya Ki has been pulled off air in light of online backlash surrounding its theme. The show revolved around an 18-year-old girl Diya (Tejaswi Prakash Wayangankar) who, compelled by circumstances, marries nine-year-old Ratan Singh (played by Affan Khan), a hotel heir. On his deathbed, Ratan’s father Maan Singh tells Divya’s family that the couple should remarry to make the alliance legal when his son turns 21.
However, viewers found the concept unpalatable and voiced their disapproval online, followed by a petition addressed to Union Cabinet Minister of Textiles and Information and Broadcasting (Additional Charge), Smriti Irani, demanding a ban on the show. The petition got more than a lakh signatures, forcing the channel to hold a press conference at which the show’s producers, Shashi and Sumeet Mittal, clarified their stand.
While they were reportedly in discussion for the late night slot of 10 pm for the show, the channel, over the weekend, decided to pull it off air to avoid further controversies. The channel confirmed the news in a statement, saying, “Effective August 28, we are pulling our programme, Pehredaar Piya Ki, off TV. While we understand that the decision to end this serial will be disappointing to those whose creative energies are vested in it, namely, its crew and cast, we (as a channel) are convinced that we will be better served by focusing instead on developing viewer interest in our upcoming, new shows.”
Meanwhile, Sumeet Mittal told Mirror that he has already moved on to a new show. “The idea now is to create a story that is pure entertainment and doesn’t touch on controversies. We’d rather focus on entertaining the audience rather than handle internet-based issues,” he said, adding that people only watched the promos and misunderstood the concept. “I would have loved it if the social media audience had watched the show before reacting to it because that would’ve been a fair opinion. It is okay to judge if the content is good or bad.
The base of this controversy was rumours and that’s not a healthy sign.” What happened to the interim plan to shift the show from primetime to a late-night slot? “The online petition had gone to Broadcasting Content Complaints Council, the body that looks after content-related complaints. The jury decided that even though the show is not promoting anything wrong, it would be prudent to shift it to a 10 pm slot in light of the petition and also since the show involves a child actor. However, we knew that the slot wouldn’t do justice to the show’s plot so we decided to end it and work on a new one,” Mittal explains. Incidentally, the channel had received flak two weeks ago for pulling the daily soap Kuch Rang Pyar Ke Aise Bhi off air with just a fourday notice to the team.
Producer Siddharth P Malhotra
I’m not in favour of abrupt endings. A producer’s contract mentions a notice period to facilitate the story’s smooth end. Any show with a good story should be aired but only till you’re honest to it. Pehredaar is not my kind of a show but the fact that it ran for a while means there was an audience for it.
TV producer Ravindra Gautam
It is unfortunate that the show was shut without notice to its team. But I don’t think the broadcaster or the producer needs to be blamed in this case. It is unfair on the part of the viewers to criticise a show so much as to file a petition against it. This is lynching of freedom of expression.
Badho Bahu producer Dipti Kalwani
I don’t think most of the people who objected to the show even bothered to watch it. They thought they were being righteous. If the show had a 10-year-old girl falling in love with an older man, no one would have objected. People think they are being fair but I think they are being sexist.
Pehredaar... actor Suyyash Rai
I was about to return in the story so it’s a shocker to me. It’s sad but I’m sure that it was a well thought out decision. I remember something similar happening a few years ago, when a channel was shut overnight. More than us, it is sad for the spot dada, light men. Their homes run because of daily soaps.
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Sonil Dedhia (MID-DAY; August 30, 2017)
It was announced yesterday that Pehredaar Piya Ki, one of the most controversial shows on Indian television in recent times, will go off air. This decision comes days after Broadcasting Content Complaints Council (BCCC) decided to change the show’s slot from prime time to late night. The drama that revolved around an 18-year-old woman getting married to a nine- year- old boy received flak for its objectionable content.
Speaking to mid-day, producer Shashi Sumeet Mittal said that the decision to pull the plug on the show wasn’t taken abruptly. “It was a mutual decision between the channel and us,” she said.
Earlier this month, I&B Minister Smriti Irani had written to the BCCC, asking them to review the content of the show. Mittal, however, denies that the I&B Ministry had any role to play in the show being taken off air. “We didn’t have any pressure from anyone. In fact, after watching the show, the Ministry had allowed us to continue with it as they didn’t find anything objectionable.” She added, “We had written the show keeping the prime time audience in mind. After the show was pushed to the 10.30 pm slot, we realised it wasn’t garnering the response we wanted. So we decided to pull it off air.”
Mittal said that they will return with a new show. “We are in the process of writing the show. We want a prime time slot and don’t want to get into another controversy this time.”
We have not received any ban order-Producers of TV show Pehredaar Piya Ki
8:14 AM
Tanvi Trivedi (BOMBAY TIMES; August 15, 2017)
Television show Pehredaar
Piya Ki (PPK), which revolves around an eight-year-old boy married to an
18year-old girl, has been in the eye of a storm for quite some time
now. After TV actor Karan Wahi lashed out at it, an online petition was
floated, seeking its ban. It was also reported that Union Information
and Broadcasting Minister Smriti Irani had forwarded the petition to the
Broadcasting Content Complaints Council.
However, the producers of the show, Sumeet and Shashi Mittal, on Monday denied receiving any ban order from the government. “We have not received any letter or petition from the minister's office. As soon we receive such a letter, we will respond. Besides, I also feel that it was irresponsible on Karan Wahi's part to post his views on social media without watching the show,“ Sumeet said.
At a press meet, they said that people should watch the show before spreading rumours about it. Shashi, who has also written the show, said, “Most of the people we meet say that they don't watch TV. If that's the case, how can they decide if PPK has objectionable content?“
The producer duo also refuted allegations about the content being regressive. Shashi added, “I agree that a marriage like the one shown in the serial - between an eight-year-old boy and an 18-year-old girl - doesn't happen in our homes. But if the show takes a time leap, the marriage will be about an older woman and a younger man, which does happen in our society.“
Later, talking to BT, he elaborated, “If a man on his deathbed asks a mature girl to look after his son whose life could be in danger by marrying him, what's wrong in that? He is a selfish father who wants his son to be protected.“
Well, couldn't the mature girl have adopted the boy or simply become his caretaker? Shashi replied, “This is a fictional show. It portrays circumstances where the father feels that just being a caretaker or mother will not help.“ When asked if the storyline aims at garnering good ratings by creating a shock value, Shashi said, “Our show has opened to good ratings, but not good enough for us to celebrate. If we had wanted to create shock value, we would have registered very good ratings by now.“
Also, the producers don't fear that the show will be banned. Sumeet noted, “The people who have reacted strongly comprise the internet generation; maybe I should call them trolls. Our real viewers are watching the show and they find it entertaining.“
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Despite facing backlash for its unsettling premise, makers of Pehredaar Piya Ki defend show, assert that they will ‘continue as planned’
Letty Mariam Abraham (MID-DAY; August 15, 2017)
In the four weeks since Pehredaar Piya Ki went on air, the show has caused outrage across the country. While the plot that revolves around an 18-year-old girl getting married to a nine-year-old boy didn’t sit well with viewers for obvious reasons, matters got worse when the makers recently aired a ‘suhag raat’ sequence between the leads.
“The show is not trying to romanticise the relationship between the protagonists,” says producer Sumeet Hukamchand Mittal in defense. “People have complained about the suhag raat sequence. But, we didn’t show any lovemaking sequence between them. The two play with flowers and you can’t tell me it’s wrong.”
While an online petition demanded the show be banned — one that received 1.25 lakh signatures over the last few days, I&B Minister Smriti Irani wrote to the Broadcasting Content Complaints Council (BCCC), asking them to review the content.
But Mittal remains unfazed. “We don’t intend to change the script unless the BCCC feels that it’s not appropriate. So far, they’ve not given us any diktat, so we’ll continue as planned.” Point out how the viewers have expressed their reservations against the objectionable content and Mittal shoots back, “Have these people seen a single episode?” Ironically, he feels the show is made for family audiences. “There’s another petition that wants the show to continue, as it’s not corrupting anyone’s mind.”
However, the producers of the show, Sumeet and Shashi Mittal, on Monday denied receiving any ban order from the government. “We have not received any letter or petition from the minister's office. As soon we receive such a letter, we will respond. Besides, I also feel that it was irresponsible on Karan Wahi's part to post his views on social media without watching the show,“ Sumeet said.
At a press meet, they said that people should watch the show before spreading rumours about it. Shashi, who has also written the show, said, “Most of the people we meet say that they don't watch TV. If that's the case, how can they decide if PPK has objectionable content?“
The producer duo also refuted allegations about the content being regressive. Shashi added, “I agree that a marriage like the one shown in the serial - between an eight-year-old boy and an 18-year-old girl - doesn't happen in our homes. But if the show takes a time leap, the marriage will be about an older woman and a younger man, which does happen in our society.“
Later, talking to BT, he elaborated, “If a man on his deathbed asks a mature girl to look after his son whose life could be in danger by marrying him, what's wrong in that? He is a selfish father who wants his son to be protected.“
Well, couldn't the mature girl have adopted the boy or simply become his caretaker? Shashi replied, “This is a fictional show. It portrays circumstances where the father feels that just being a caretaker or mother will not help.“ When asked if the storyline aims at garnering good ratings by creating a shock value, Shashi said, “Our show has opened to good ratings, but not good enough for us to celebrate. If we had wanted to create shock value, we would have registered very good ratings by now.“
Also, the producers don't fear that the show will be banned. Sumeet noted, “The people who have reacted strongly comprise the internet generation; maybe I should call them trolls. Our real viewers are watching the show and they find it entertaining.“
----------------------------
Despite facing backlash for its unsettling premise, makers of Pehredaar Piya Ki defend show, assert that they will ‘continue as planned’
Letty Mariam Abraham (MID-DAY; August 15, 2017)
In the four weeks since Pehredaar Piya Ki went on air, the show has caused outrage across the country. While the plot that revolves around an 18-year-old girl getting married to a nine-year-old boy didn’t sit well with viewers for obvious reasons, matters got worse when the makers recently aired a ‘suhag raat’ sequence between the leads.
“The show is not trying to romanticise the relationship between the protagonists,” says producer Sumeet Hukamchand Mittal in defense. “People have complained about the suhag raat sequence. But, we didn’t show any lovemaking sequence between them. The two play with flowers and you can’t tell me it’s wrong.”
While an online petition demanded the show be banned — one that received 1.25 lakh signatures over the last few days, I&B Minister Smriti Irani wrote to the Broadcasting Content Complaints Council (BCCC), asking them to review the content.
But Mittal remains unfazed. “We don’t intend to change the script unless the BCCC feels that it’s not appropriate. So far, they’ve not given us any diktat, so we’ll continue as planned.” Point out how the viewers have expressed their reservations against the objectionable content and Mittal shoots back, “Have these people seen a single episode?” Ironically, he feels the show is made for family audiences. “There’s another petition that wants the show to continue, as it’s not corrupting anyone’s mind.”
Second Sunday will be 'rest day' for TV industry
7:45 AM
Actors are thrilled about the idea, but producers believe it will send their schedules in a tizzy. BT talks to both parties and finds out if they can reach a consensus
Neha Maheshwri Bhagat (BOMBAY TIMES; March 9, 2016)
The television industry is
known for toiling relentlessly to give us our daily dose of
entertainment. Due to the frenetic pace, actors and technicians are
hardly left with any time to unwind. However, there is some respite in
sight for them as the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE)
has decided to make every second Sunday a mandatory holiday for the TV
industry from April 1. While artistes have welcomed the move, producers
are worried about its adverse effects on the telecast of their shows.
Dilip Pithwa, Honorary General Secretary, FWICE, reasons, “We have decided to take a holiday on every second Sunday. The producers aren't supportive as they don't want to shell out extra money for a holiday that will be considered paid leave. Do they realise the rising frustration levels of the workers working in the same environment day-in and day-out? What they don't know is that the worker pays another member to fill in for him on a particular day from his own pocket. They may be hired on the basis of salary, but they are actually paid for the number of days they shoot; they don't even get overtime.“
He adds this issue can be addressed if enough planning is done in advance and explains, “If a producer can holiday abroad without worrying about the telecast of their shows, why can't they manage it by making second Sunday a mandatory off? They can work towards getting scripts in advance, so that they can keep a bank of episodes ready.“
ACTORS GLAD TO GET A DAY OFF
Gautam Rode, currently seen in Suryaputra Karn, says, “The mandatory off will make an actor's life much easier, especially when you are shooting away from the city. Many actors shoot for 30 days, which has an adverse effect on their health and performance. Should a situation arise, I'm sure producers can manage without shooting for two days in a month.“
Ssharad Malhotra, the male lead in Kasam, seconds the actor, “It's a viable idea if executed well. We slog daily and need an off to replenish our energy. But when telecast issues crop up, we don't mind shooting an extra day as we understand that TV is a deadline-driven medium. Contrary to the general perception, an actor doesn't get time for his personal life. Better time and resource management would surely help at all levels.“
Actress Meghna Malik calls the current TV scenario a 'war zone' rather than a 'work zone'. “The TV industry isn't equipped to
give technicians, actors or producers even the fixed calendar holidays
as telecast deadlines have to be met. It's a work-till-you-drop-dead
policy. It is high time that things change.“
However, some actors feel they should get an off on weekdays. Actress Arti Singh says, “The industry should be more organised. Ideally, we need four holidays in a month. We should get a weekly holiday on a working day as we don't face gruelling traffic on Sunday.“
Sana Amin Sheikh adds, “We also have important chores to run, which can't happen on Sundays. But if shows are aired seven days a week, it will be difficult to get a holiday, especially for lead actors. I am used to this, so I don't mind.“
WHY IT CAN'T BE ACHIEVED
The producers have been averse to the proposed idea as they believe it would result in confusion on set and hamper the telecast. They suggest that everyone can take a weekly off after coming to a consensus. Producer Rahul Kumar Tewary says, “We haven't been informed about the development as yet. It should be a unanimous decision. No individual or association can take a stand, which impacts the entire industry. Meeting the deadline for delivering content in shows, which air six days a week, is a difficult feat in itself. We also incur late delivery charges if an episode is sent to the channel beyond the decided hours. Our team is working round-the-clock to meet the telecast demands as well address various issues at the shoot. The weekly/monthly offs without implementing the required procedures will affect shows and deliveries.“
Producer Rajan Shahi asserts that it's a misconception that the television industry works without a break. He elaborates, “There are some who deviate, and that issue needs to be addressed immediately. The unit gets breaks at regular intervals (usually four days off in a month) to rest and improve its efficiency. I myself give breaks according to the unit's convenience.“ He adds that fixing a day off isn't a feasible option as people might prefer to take a holiday on another day. “A holiday is necessary and mandatory, but those working should get to decide when they want to take an off,“ says Rajan.
Producer Sumeet Mittal emphasises, “We are in favour of granting an off to the entire cast and crew as they are overworked, but it's not feasible to commit a particular day for it. With all daily soaps airing seven days a week, it's impossible to do so. What if the telecast is stuck or an emergency situation crops up?“
NO CONSENSUS YET
Amit Behl, joint secretary of CINTAA (Cine and Television Artistes' Association), member of the dispute committee and Senior Vice President of FWICE, feels that both the parties have a valid point. He says, “A second Sunday off was a valid rule in the early '90s, when the deliverables weren't that high. Soon, a day-and-a-half shift (12 hours) became a regular feature. In the current scenario, where we are prone to casualties and other issues hampering the telecast, the broadcasters (before the October 2015 strike) passed a ruling that all producers will keep a bank of at least 10 episodes for their shows. Unfortunately, not many follow the rule. It's primarily because the scripts don't come in advance.“
However, he adds that it won't be right to blame anyone as everyone is fighting the ratings war. He explains, “I am fine with the idea of making second Sundays a mandatory holiday, provided producers are also given leeway to shoot on that particular day if the situation demands so. They do seek permission when they do a 2 pm to 2 am odd shift. I also second the producers, who propose that taking a holiday should be mutually decided upon, as we are not in a government job. We at CINTAA are still not clear till we have a detailed discussion with the producers' association and the broadcasters.“
Director Ismail Umarr Khan feels, “We can easily handle the pressure on an odd day with the second unit filling in for the first, which was a norm earlier. A unit can easily take the pressure of one episode. Every technician wants a holiday. I don't think anyone is against taking an off on Sundays. The bottom line is, workers will have a life.“
Dilip Pithwa, Honorary General Secretary, FWICE, reasons, “We have decided to take a holiday on every second Sunday. The producers aren't supportive as they don't want to shell out extra money for a holiday that will be considered paid leave. Do they realise the rising frustration levels of the workers working in the same environment day-in and day-out? What they don't know is that the worker pays another member to fill in for him on a particular day from his own pocket. They may be hired on the basis of salary, but they are actually paid for the number of days they shoot; they don't even get overtime.“
He adds this issue can be addressed if enough planning is done in advance and explains, “If a producer can holiday abroad without worrying about the telecast of their shows, why can't they manage it by making second Sunday a mandatory off? They can work towards getting scripts in advance, so that they can keep a bank of episodes ready.“
ACTORS GLAD TO GET A DAY OFF
Gautam Rode, currently seen in Suryaputra Karn, says, “The mandatory off will make an actor's life much easier, especially when you are shooting away from the city. Many actors shoot for 30 days, which has an adverse effect on their health and performance. Should a situation arise, I'm sure producers can manage without shooting for two days in a month.“
Ssharad Malhotra, the male lead in Kasam, seconds the actor, “It's a viable idea if executed well. We slog daily and need an off to replenish our energy. But when telecast issues crop up, we don't mind shooting an extra day as we understand that TV is a deadline-driven medium. Contrary to the general perception, an actor doesn't get time for his personal life. Better time and resource management would surely help at all levels.“
Actress Meghna Malik calls the current TV scenario a 'war zone' rather than a 'work zone'. “The TV industry isn't equipped to
give technicians, actors or producers even the fixed calendar holidays
as telecast deadlines have to be met. It's a work-till-you-drop-dead
policy. It is high time that things change.“However, some actors feel they should get an off on weekdays. Actress Arti Singh says, “The industry should be more organised. Ideally, we need four holidays in a month. We should get a weekly holiday on a working day as we don't face gruelling traffic on Sunday.“
Sana Amin Sheikh adds, “We also have important chores to run, which can't happen on Sundays. But if shows are aired seven days a week, it will be difficult to get a holiday, especially for lead actors. I am used to this, so I don't mind.“
WHY IT CAN'T BE ACHIEVED
The producers have been averse to the proposed idea as they believe it would result in confusion on set and hamper the telecast. They suggest that everyone can take a weekly off after coming to a consensus. Producer Rahul Kumar Tewary says, “We haven't been informed about the development as yet. It should be a unanimous decision. No individual or association can take a stand, which impacts the entire industry. Meeting the deadline for delivering content in shows, which air six days a week, is a difficult feat in itself. We also incur late delivery charges if an episode is sent to the channel beyond the decided hours. Our team is working round-the-clock to meet the telecast demands as well address various issues at the shoot. The weekly/monthly offs without implementing the required procedures will affect shows and deliveries.“
Producer Rajan Shahi asserts that it's a misconception that the television industry works without a break. He elaborates, “There are some who deviate, and that issue needs to be addressed immediately. The unit gets breaks at regular intervals (usually four days off in a month) to rest and improve its efficiency. I myself give breaks according to the unit's convenience.“ He adds that fixing a day off isn't a feasible option as people might prefer to take a holiday on another day. “A holiday is necessary and mandatory, but those working should get to decide when they want to take an off,“ says Rajan.
Producer Sumeet Mittal emphasises, “We are in favour of granting an off to the entire cast and crew as they are overworked, but it's not feasible to commit a particular day for it. With all daily soaps airing seven days a week, it's impossible to do so. What if the telecast is stuck or an emergency situation crops up?“
NO CONSENSUS YET
Amit Behl, joint secretary of CINTAA (Cine and Television Artistes' Association), member of the dispute committee and Senior Vice President of FWICE, feels that both the parties have a valid point. He says, “A second Sunday off was a valid rule in the early '90s, when the deliverables weren't that high. Soon, a day-and-a-half shift (12 hours) became a regular feature. In the current scenario, where we are prone to casualties and other issues hampering the telecast, the broadcasters (before the October 2015 strike) passed a ruling that all producers will keep a bank of at least 10 episodes for their shows. Unfortunately, not many follow the rule. It's primarily because the scripts don't come in advance.“
However, he adds that it won't be right to blame anyone as everyone is fighting the ratings war. He explains, “I am fine with the idea of making second Sundays a mandatory holiday, provided producers are also given leeway to shoot on that particular day if the situation demands so. They do seek permission when they do a 2 pm to 2 am odd shift. I also second the producers, who propose that taking a holiday should be mutually decided upon, as we are not in a government job. We at CINTAA are still not clear till we have a detailed discussion with the producers' association and the broadcasters.“
Director Ismail Umarr Khan feels, “We can easily handle the pressure on an odd day with the second unit filling in for the first, which was a norm earlier. A unit can easily take the pressure of one episode. Every technician wants a holiday. I don't think anyone is against taking an off on Sundays. The bottom line is, workers will have a life.“
AC explodes on the sets of Diya Aur Baati Hum; 2 technicians injured
8:21 AM
Asira Tarannum (MID-DAY; July 5, 2014)
On Thursday, a fire broke out on the sets of Star Plus’ most popular show, Diya Aur Baati Hum, when an air conditioner exploded. Lead actors Deepika Singh and Anas Rashid are safe, but two technicians were injured in the incident.
A source from the sets says, “At around 7: 30pm, the star cast was having Iftaar (breaking the Ramzan fast) on the sets and the AC was being repaired. Suddenly the air conditioner burst. The electrician who was repairing the AC suffered burns and a light man who was washing his hands right below the AC suffered a head injury due to the AC falling on his head. Both technicians were rushed to Orbit hospital and a fire brigade was called immediately to control the fire.” Following this incident, shooting for two other shows that are also shot there — O Gujariya of Channel V and Do Dil Bandhe Ek Dori Se of Zee TV — was cancelled immediately.
Work, however, resumed on Friday as per schedule. Producer Sumeet Mittal says, “It could have caused us a major loss but thankfully it was a small fire. Our technicians were injured but they are being treated in the hospital now. The section where the blast occurred is currently being repaired and it will cost us around R 10 lakh.” Anas Rashid says, “We had a double schedule on Thursday and the entire unit was present on the sets, so we decided to have an Iftaar party. But after the blast, shooting was cancelled for the day.”
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