Dependable TV hand Sayantani Ghosh is hoping that her latest Star Plus medical drama, Sanjivani, will change the face of Indian TV. “You only need one big property to replace existing templates. E.g. Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi and Kasautii Zindagii Kay heralded the K series era.”
“What gives us the edge is that our costumes, like season 1, are very functional (the hospital backdrop). This is a far cry from loud, over the top stuff currently ruling the roost on desi tube, where the emphasis is only on looking good.”
“Same goes with the script, which has certain sensibilities and flavour, given that we are dealing with serious professionals like surgeons and doctors.”
“Last but not the least, the shot-taking is very normal and relatable. All the above elements put a spring in our step when we shoot.”
Here, Sayantani, who has been around TV for over 14 years, does some straight talking. “Even the audiences need to start accepting content beyond the tried and tested, which sadly is not happening. E.g., the fate of our recent different take on the Mahabharata, Karn Sangini. Once numbers don’t come, sooner or later, shows have to go off as it begins to affect the bottom line.”
“Although my other offbeat show Naamkarann rated well, yet it did not become a chartbuster.”
“TRP is a different creature, for it seems to be more North region heavy. Bengal and Mumbai don’t seem to matter on BARC or TAM (before). The audiences there seem to lap up more digital content; no wonder, Netflix is big.” Sayantani’s other bigger known shows have been Kumkum – Ek Pyara Sa Bandhan, Naaginn, Itna Karo Na Mujhe Pyaar, Mahabharat, etc.
“Having said that, we have got a very positive reaction to the first episode preview of Sanjivani and this was expected, as we are returning with a cult franchise, boasting of big names (Rohit Roy and Gurdeep Kohli).”
Talking about her character, she says, “Dr Anjali is a layered woman, going beyond the currently known father (Mohnish Behl)-daughter friction track. All characters have a lot to do. Kudos to our producer, Siddharth P Malhotra, for retaining the flavour of the past, yet making the show very today.”
In closing, when asked about the main female lead, Sayantani says, “Although Surbhi Chandna has come on the back of the huge hit show, Ishqbaaaz, yet she does not have any airs. Even now she is hungry for more good and is a very much a team player who we love.”