Television and film producer Ekta Kapoor, often called the queen of Indian TV, opened up about the entertainment industry at the India Today Mumbai Conclave. Known for iconic shows like Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi and Naagin, as well as her bold ventures in cinema and OTT, Ekta shared her views on the changing landscape of films and television. She spoke about the women who have inspired her, the challenges the industry faces today, and why she believes in indulgence over balance. The producer also touched on trending topics, including the impact of costly entourages and the role of the censor board in filmmaking. The session was titled “Queen of Content: Woman Who Shaped Indian Screens”.
Ekta Kapoor On Women Shaping Entertainment
When asked
to name influential women in the industry, Ekta instantly mentioned, “Guneet Monga, Rhea Kapoor, Zoya Akhtar, Deepika Padukone and Kareena Kapoor Khan.”
She highlighted her collaborations with several of them: her recent film Kathal, co-produced with Guneet Monga, won a National Award for Best Hindi Film, while she has worked with Rhea Kapoor on films such as Crew and Thank You For Coming. With Kareena Kapoor Khan, she co-produced Crew and The Buckingham Murders. Though she has yet to collaborate with Zoya Akhtar or Deepika Padukone, Ekta talked about the importance of women driving creativity in the industry.
On Censor Board and Industry Costs
On the subject of film regulation, Ekta described the censor board as, “Much needed trouble.” She also criticised the rising cost of entourages, calling it a factor that is “Killing the movies.”
Ekta clarified that neither television nor films are harming each other; instead, she believes it is the excessive entourage expenses that are impacting both mediums.
Regarding reality shows and actor behaviour, she added, “Reality shows are very entertaining, while actor tantrums are very not entertaining.”
On Television
Talking about TV’s current status, Ekta noted that urban audiences have gradually moved to digital platforms, but she assured that traditional television is not under threat from OTT platforms or films. She also said the race for TRPs feels like a phenomenon of the past.
When asked if her life were ever adapted into a TV series, Ekta jokingly replied, “Kasautii Zindagii Kay.” On comparing her iconic characters Parvati and Tulsi, she said, “We can’t have women compete with each other. They are both adjusting each other’s crowns.”
Upcoming Projects
Ekta Kapoor is preparing to launch the seventh season of Naagin on Colors TV.
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