By Anil Merani: Samridhii Shukla, known for her role in “Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai,” offers a pragmatic and artistically grounded perspective on television ratings. She emphasizes that her primary responsibility as an actor is to deliver a compelling performance, fully immersing herself in her character and the story. Ratings, such as TRPs (Television Rating Points), are influenced by numerous external factors—audience preferences, competing shows, time slots, marketing strategies, and even socioeconomic trends—that are beyond an actor’s control. By focusing solely on her performance rather than becoming fixated on numbers, Shukla demonstrates a mature understanding of her role within the industry. This mindset allows her to direct her energy towards what she can influence, fostering creativity and likely preserving her mental well-being in a high-pressure environment where success is often quantified by ratings.
However, the television industry is unforgiving when it comes to ratings. Low TRPs can lead to a show’s cancellation, irrespective of an actor’s dedication or artistic merit. Networks and producers prioritize revenue, so a show that fails to attract viewers risks being pulled off the air, jeopardizing the jobs of everyone involved, including actors like Shukla. This creates a paradox: while her focus on craft over ratings is admirable and reflects an artist’s ethos, it doesn’t shield her from the harsh realities of the business. The phrase “when numbers fall, all bets are off” captures this precarious dynamic—declining ratings can disrupt even the most talented cast and crew, as networks make tough decisions to safeguard their financial interests.
Shukla’s approach represents a resilient balancing act. By detaching from the obsession with ratings, she maintains her artistic integrity and avoids the stress associated with chasing unpredictable metrics. Yet, she must navigate an industry where her livelihood is indirectly tied to those very numbers, highlighting the ongoing tension between art and commerce in television.