The TRP trap ! Gaurav Chopraa

It's the brutal king with a mighty sword - The TRPs, that's Television Rating Points, is that vital element in the Indian television industry that rules the fate of any and every show that's telecast.

It's become so common to hear about the sad demise of a show that it's not shocking anymore. On a serious note, who are hit the most by this doleful channel decision? The producer and the actors. In case of the actors, they suddenly find themselves stranded, and to hunt for newer roles in the midst of all the cut-throat-competition. And with every channel and producer going in for newer and fresh faces, landing the right role is no cakewalk for them. In fact, many are left in a lurch without any work for months together after a show is abruptly taken off air.

We ask select stars to voice their views on this highly controversial matter.

Gaurav Chopraa
I try not to get affected by TRPs. I think of acting as a job where one needs to like what one is doing. Creative satisfaction counts and it has nothing to do with TRPs. The other aspect is appreciation; you want to get positive public response for your performance. When I joined Aisa Desh Hain Mera the TRPs improved but it was not just because of my entry but because the right track and storyline were improvised. As an actor I try to keep away from this rating game.