Gulfam Khan Hussain, who is currently seen in Gehna - Zevar Ya Zanjeer on Dangal TV, says that TV’s reach is truly unparalleled. The actor adds that while many may feel TV relies on dramatics, such storylines do wonders on the small screen.
“TV has a wide reach. In fact, if you consider all other storytelling mediums on one side and TV on the other, TV will still have more viewership. What is lacking in a lot of shows is a progressive approach. Showing the main protagonist in distress can attract a sympathetic viewership, but the hurdles and backgrounds often look the same across different shows. Except for the tagline, not much changes in the treatment. There can be progressive content with hurdles and drama too. As an actor, I face this issue frequently, but luckily, I get my share of breaks with different content even on TV,” she says.
Ask her if she believes the industry is resistant to change, and she says, “The makers are sceptical when it comes to trying new content, and maybe they are playing it safe with the mindset of ‘let’s serve what works.’ My logic is simple: if you present something out of the box with enough drama, there is a chance that you will bring about a revolution.”
Talking about the way to move forward, she says, “Simply put, progressive content has to be made. It’s not like we haven’t seen progressive content being accepted. To name a few, ‘Banegi Apni Baat’ - a story of four women in one house with their individual problems, ‘Lipstick’ - a story of the glamour industry, ‘Hasratein’ - the story of a girl from a dysfunctional family whose life is controversial, or funny slice-of-life shows like ‘RK Laxman Ki Duniya’ have proved that progressive content can be a hit too.”
She adds, “Actors are vocal about this topic. Sadly, we need to work, and sometimes it becomes necessary to turn a blind eye, but at the same time, there are those who try and make a change.”
Recently, actor Kavita Kaushik quit the TV industry due to the kind of content and narratives being shown on TV. Talking about the same, she says, “I don’t know the exact reason why Kavita quit the industry, and if the content being made is the reason, then I’m sure she’s waiting for the right story and hasn’t “quit” per se. She is a fabulous actor (though I don’t know her personally) and will be cast in a role or story of her choice sooner rather than later. Speaking generally, I don’t think actors can, will, or should give up and stop their art and trade. There will be progressive content made, and we have to be positive in our approach. Also, when progressive content is attempted, we should be supportive towards the makers, and this can be done in various forms.”
