By Anil Merani: The introduction of a kissing scene in Ghum Hai Kisikey Pyaar Meiin (GHKKPM) marks a significant moment for Indian television, sparking discussions about whether it represents a progressive evolution in response to changing social attitudes or a calculated move to boost declining viewership. The scene, featuring Savi, a female ACP played by Bhavika Sharma, shows her kissing a stranger without consent as a survival tactic and has stirred controversy, particularly among the show’s core housewife audience. This development raises questions about whether it aligns with modern sensibilities or risks alienating traditional viewers.
Since its debut in October 2020 on Star Plus, GHKKPM has been a staple of family drama, initially centered around a love triangle and later undergoing multiple time jumps (a common Indian TV term for significant leaps in the storyline) and cast changes in an effort to maintain a top-5 TRP ranking. The recent kiss, highlighted in a June 2025 post on X, drew criticism for portraying Savi’s actions as degrading. Many comments reflected this sentiment, with statements like, “What are you trying to show, that a cop can’t save herself from goons unless she kisses a random man?” This non-consensual act has fueled debates about whether it undermines Savi’s strong character or pushes the boundaries of storytelling.
Indian TV has historically catered to conservative audiences, particularly housewives, with soaps emphasizing family values and subtle romance. However, competition from streaming platforms like Netflix, which offer explicit content, has prompted shows like GHKKPM to experiment with bolder elements. This shift mirrors a gradual acceptance of on-screen intimacy among urban viewers, while rural and semi-urban housewives often prefer traditional narratives. The kiss could be viewed as an attempt to modernize the show, aligning it with global trends and appealing to younger audiences, but its controversial execution risks backlash.
Proponents of the scene argue that it reflects an evolution, showcasing complex characters like Savi in morally ambiguous scenarios, similar to nuanced global dramas. The show’s post-leap focus on suspense and Savi’s intense character arc has been praised on Reddit as “a fresh story,” suggesting some viewers appreciate this risk. Conversely, critics view it as a desperate attempt to boost TRPs, especially given GHKKPM’s history of regressive tropes and recent cast upheavals. The non-consensual nature of the kiss has been criticized for prioritizing shock value over substance, potentially alienating housewives who value ethical portrayals.
The response from the housewife audience is mixed, adding an intriguing layer to the debate. Urban viewers may tolerate bold content if it fits the narrative, with some expressing excitement over Savi’s return. However, conservative viewers, as highlighted in critical posts on X, may reject the scene as inappropriate, particularly for undermining a strong female lead. GHKKPM’s ability to balance emotional depth with such bold decisions will determine its reception. While the kiss reflects the television industry’s push toward modern storytelling, its controversial framing leans toward sensationalism, risking a divide among its loyal audience.