'Taking small steps, but still cautious because of..': Abhishek Malik on Indian shows challenging stereotypes

In a rapidly transforming television industry, Jamai No. 1 lead actor Abhishek Malik, known for his performances in shows like Yeh Hai Mohabbatein, Kumkum Bhagya, and Kahaan Hum Kahaan Tum, believes that Indian daily soaps are at a turning point—and it’s time they fully embraced it.

Speaking about the evolution of storytelling in Indian TV serials over the past decade, Abhishek says, "Earlier, stories revolved around fixed formulas—family drama, misunderstandings, and over-the-top villains. But now, viewers want more depth and reliability. There's a growing appetite for layered characters and real-life themes, and some makers are slowly catching up."

He feels Jamai No. 1 is a step in that direction. “The fact that our show puts the 'jamai'—the son-in-law—at the center of a household narrative is in itself a fresh take. It questions power dynamics, gender roles, and expectations in Indian families. I play a character who is sensitive yet strong, grounded yet ambitious. And that’s what the modern Indian man looks like.”

When asked if Indian serials are doing enough to break away from stereotypical tropes and promote progressive narratives, he reflects with honesty, "I think we’ve taken small steps, but we’re still too cautious. There’s fear around how TRP-driven audiences will respond. While some shows are pushing boundaries, many still play it safe. We need to take more creative risks and stop underestimating the intelligence of our viewers."

He adds, “My character is not the dominant alpha male, and yet he’s respected and celebrated. That’s a strong message to send out—that you don’t have to be aggressive to be powerful.”

I think we’ve taken small steps, but we’re still too cautious. There’s fear around how TRP-driven audiences will respond. While some shows are pushing boundaries, many still play it safe. We need to take more creative risks and stop underestimating the intelligence of our viewers

- Abhishek Malik

One of the most striking aspects of Jamai No. 1 is how it redefines masculinity. Abhishek says, “TV has often painted men as either toxic or overly idealized. But masculinity is about balance—it’s about being emotionally available, being supportive, knowing when to lead and when to step back. My character shows strength not through dominance but through understanding.”

“I want to see more men on screen who cry, who nurture, who respect boundaries.” On a deeper note, Abhishek discusses how masculinity is portrayed in Indian serials: "For the longest time, male characters were either overly aggressive or unrealistically idealistic. We rarely saw men being emotionally vulnerable or supportive without ego. I’d love to see that change—let's normalize sensitive, respectful, and flawed male leads who are still strong. That’s true masculinity."

As he continues to explore diverse roles, Abhishek Malik remains hopeful about the future of Indian television. "We’ve come a long way, but we have a long way to go. As actors, we just hope to be part of stories that not only entertain but also evolve with the times."