In the ever-evolving landscape of Indian television, a medium that has seen both its glory days and current prominence in the era of OTT content, one name stands out – Rajan Shahi. Widely recognized as a stalwart among TV producers, Shahi’s journey in the world of showbiz is interestingly linked with his family legacy, he is the grandson of silent era actor P Jayaraj, who is best known as Dada Saheb. Has been awarded the Phalke Award. Shahi’s entry into the entertainment industry began as a junior artiste, where he honed his craft by assisting celebrities like Sanjay Khan, Gulzar and Ravi Rai.

His first success came from Dil Hai Ki Manta Nahi, which also starred Rupali Ganguly, who is now the lead in his highly rated show Anupamaa.

Reflecting on his trajectory, Shahi recalled his beginning with Jassi Jaisi Koi Nahin and producing 18 to 19 shows thereafter. In 2007, he made a significant mark as a producer with Sapna Babul Ka: Bidaai, which rejected prevailing trends by emphasizing genuine storytelling rather than flamboyant acting and ostentatious costumes. Amidst the perception of the industry losing its charm, Shahi is attempting to be a game-changer, with his latest venture, Anupamaa, which is emerging as a trendsetter even in the post-Covid era.

Notably, the show, now nearing its fourth year, has gained international recognition for addressing important issues such as diabetes and panic attacks in children.

“Daily soaps have to run for a long time because a lot is invested in them, but that makes it difficult to build a brand. Nowadays people are not connecting with TV shows. Anupamaa has become a landmark show, it has gained international recognition,” he says.

Contrary to the popular belief that the era of television is ending, Shahi argues that TV actors surpass even Bollywood stars in terms of viewership. “TV actors are bigger than big film stars, their viewership is incredible,” he says. He is also proud of a special campaign for Vocal for Local with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, underscoring the show’s wide reach and impact. Let’s mention from.

Shahi, recently embroiled in controversy over his statements about actors causing challenges, defended his position by insisting that no one is above the show. He believes in loving his actors but says misbehavior will not be tolerated.

“I have had a lot of disputes with actors, but I feel no one is above the show, not even the producers. It’s a creative field, there are ups and downs with the best people in the industry. I always appreciate my actors. However, there is a misconception that many actors claim that they shoot for 18 hours. This happens sometimes, but not always. Some fans and even actors have a very wrong impression about producers that they are crooks,” he explains.

Shahi recalls instances when actors were politely asked to leave the set if they did not follow work ethics. Shahi further said that he loves his actors and even his technical staff holds equal importance for him. “How they behave and talk to the unit is what matters most to me. I have learned from Ektaji (Kapoor) that no one will hold the show for ransom. A character can be changed in a second and I have done that.

With a number of successful shows including the longest running Indian TV show, Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, which consists of approximately 4300 episodes, the royals are unique in the world of television production.