Rajan Shahi on the much awaited 'Abhira' reunion, Baatein Kuch Ankahee Si, trolls & more

Rajan Shahi, one of the most renowned producers in the world of television, has left an indelible mark on the Indian television industry. Best known for producing highly successful shows like 'Bidaai,' 'Anupamaa,' 'Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai,' Wo Toh Hai Albela' and more, Rajan Shahi has an exceptional eye for storytelling and a knack for creating relatable characters. "Anupamaa," a heartwarming family drama, struck a chord with audiences, emphasizing the strength of a woman as she navigates life's challenges. "YRKKH," on the other hand, has been an audience favourite for years, captivating viewers with its engaging narrative and evolving relationships. And as time passed, Rajan Shahi has gone ahead to be one of the most celebrated producers of his time.

In an exclusive chat with India Forums, Rajan Shahi commented on his upcoming show 'Baatein Kuch Ankahee Si,' The most awaited 'Abhira' reunion and Jay Soni's exit from the show, whether or not he pays heed to the trolls and the battles between fan clubs and a lot more. 

After giving several hits on the same channel, you will return with another new show about an exciting topic. Do you feel any sort of pressure of the audience's expectations? 

Well, till the show does not come on air, I want to refrain from talking about it. This is my belief; I only talk about my shows once they air. So, I will only say three words, and those are 'Thu Thu Thu.' ( Giggles)

Talking about YRKKH, the audience had been waiting for Abhimanyu and Akshara's reunion; however, now that it is finally happening, there is a section of fan clubs who have come to terms with Abhinav's character and do not want it to end; how do you deal with this constant battle between the fan clubs?

See, I have always respected any feedback; when we make a show, we make it for the audience, right? That is paramount. All writers, creative directors, and Actors come together to create a show for the audience. So any criticism, any sort of appreciation, that is always the good part. Over the years, we have seen all the fuss, sometimes good, sometimes bad. A considerable section of the audience needs to be more vocal and active on social media; however, whenever we meet them, they are hot when we go across the country when they meet us. There are two types of audiences today; the very active digital audience, and then there are people who are not communicating through social media, the ones who are not messaging or commenting. To us, both these audiences are equally important, they both make a very integral part of our viewership, and there is a lot of respect for all kinds of audiences. As a maker, I am very conscious and appreciative that we get responses from both audiences. When it comes to Yeh Rishta, whether it has been the past, present or in the future, there will be a considerable section which may not like us and a vast section which appreciates the same thing people are otherwise not like. In Yeh Rishta, we have gone by the core storytelling, which is essential. Right from Akshara and Naitik to Kartik and Naira, the criticism was always there on certain things. During the time of Kartik and Naira, the digital came so much into the forefront that things became more vocal. We have gone through a phase where people would trend 'Boycott DKP.'

However, with Abhinav ( Jay Soni) coming in, a section of the audience liked his entry and a certain section did not. But I will always say that no matter what anybody comments or says, certain things are pre-determined. Getting Jay (Abhinav) on board was decided, and his exit too was decided much beforehand. It may have taken a little longer because it resonated with a section of the audience. The storytelling came to a core. We must always understand that no matter how good a show or a character is, it does reach a point of stagnation. So, we must develop a new idea at the right time to bring up an element to boost the story. A considerable section of the audience is reaching out to us and telling us that they do not want Abhinav to go. Still, then this was all planned and at the right time; his exit has happened because the next level of storytelling will be more interesting because of this exit."

Getting Jay (Abhinav) on board was decided, and his exit too was decided much beforehand. It may have taken a little longer because it resonated with a section of the audience. The storytelling came to a core. We must always understand that no matter how good a show or a character is, it does reach a point of stagnation. So, we must develop a new idea at the right time to bring up an element to boost the story.

- Rajan Shahi

Personally, do you follow, or do you pay heed to the trolls? If yes, how do you deal with it?

Yeah, you cannot ignore it at all, and you should not. Any maker would be stupid to overlook any reaction. I would not call them trolls, but their reactions to the show. So yes, I am very, very aware of the kind of reactions which happen. You will never see me hitting back at the fans or the trolls. But knowing the enormous arch of the show, we know there is a reaction now and that there can be a separate reaction in the upcoming time. So, I do not react personally to it, but yes, I hear the criticism. More than the good part, I always listen and remember the complaint. However, a story that must be told in a particular manner will be told. 

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