By Anil Merani: The Star Plus show Jhanak, which debuted on November 20, 2023, starring Hiba Nawab and Krushal Ahuja, initially captured the hearts of audiences with its emotional narrative centered on Jhanak’s struggles and dance aspirations. The show’s early success, peaking at a 4.0 TRP and ranking 4th in November 2024, up from 2.1 at 6th earlier that month, is a testament to its potential. However, a noticeable decline in its initial charm, as evidenced by falling ratings and viewer dissatisfaction, has been observed. By April 2025, it had dropped to 8th place with a 1.5 TRP, even with hour-long episodes during the IPL season, signaling a loss of its earlier appeal.
The audience’s frustration with the show’s repetitive and stretched storyline is a major factor in its decline. Social media platforms like X are filled with complaints about “dragged” plots, such as the Mumbai arc, court cases, and excessive focus on secondary characters like Arshi and Appu, which have failed to maintain viewer engagement. The 20-year leap introduced in February 2025, which reportedly saw the exit of Nawab and Ahuja, brought new characters that didn’t resonate, further hurting viewership. Fans have criticized the show for weak writing, lackluster dialogues, and an overreliance on melodrama, with Jhanak’s character often portrayed as overly emotional rather than empowered. Recent promos introducing a Bhojpuri-inspired track have been labeled “illogical” and poorly conceived, risking further alienation.
Creative missteps, including overacting in intense emotional scenes and a failure to develop the central Jhanak-Anirudh (RuNak) romance, have compounded the issue. The hour-long format, while helping maintain a 1.5 TRP during IPL, is seen as excessive, with fans suggesting a tighter 30-minute focus on the leads could boost ratings above 2.0. The leap’s new characters, like Vihaan, haven’t clicked, and the show’s reliance on recycled wedding drama and constant taunting of Jhanak by the Bose family has grown tiresome.
Facing competition from shows like Udne Ki Aasha (2.2 TRP) and Anupamaa (1.9 TRP), Jhanak struggles to align with evolving viewer preferences for fresh, empowering narratives. Despite a loyal fanbase that appreciates its stability and early strengths—like the Kashmir backdrop and dance sequences—the show’s future depends on a significant narrative overhaul. This is the key to addressing the criticisms and recapturing the show’s initial success. Without this, Jhanak risks further losing its audience, as seen in the growing discontent on X and critical reviews.