By Anil Merani: Star Plus workhorse Ghum Hai Kisikey Pyaar Mein is shedding numbers big time post the Jan 2025 leap and might even face a possible axe post-IPL if things go further astray.
The show’s declining numbers can be attributed to several factors, with the most prominent being the new lead’s casting. Both Gen ZEE and older viewers are openly questioning the acting abilities of Vaibhavi Hankare and Sanam Johar. Even Param Singh, a talented actor, seems to be struggling to make an impression. Unfortunately, his on-screen chemistry with Miss Hankare is not as captivating as it should be.
It’s worth remembering that the show’s success was largely due to its exceptional casting. Despite not being the best of friends off-screen, Neil Bhatt and Ayesha Singh’s on-screen chemistry was undeniably sizzling, contributing significantly to the show’s popularity.
Bhavika, though less loved, still managed to keep the flag flying first with Shakti Arora and Hitesh Bharadwaj, but Gen 4 has seen all the bets go off.
When casting is perceived as off, it’s important to focus on improving other aspects such as plots, character development, and screenplays. While Indian TV may not change overnight, there is always room for growth and innovation.
However, instead of facing the elephant in the room, there are new castings and other fundamental flaws. The maker still resorts to love triangles. God, give me a break, screamed a furious stan on my DM.’
While budget constraints may have forced casting changes, it’s crucial to remember that high-quality acting is non-negotiable. If you want top-notch performances, you have to be willing to pay for them. Anything less simply won’t cut it.
Ideally, the channel and PH (Cockcrow Entertainment Shaika Films) should have gracefully exited with Bhavika. They knew that creatively; they milked all the juice (what the desi template allows). You can’t suddenly have Western values.
Ghum would have been remembered in the annals of history with a different level of respect had it bowed out at its height. But alas, why would any channel or PH kill a milch cow?
Let me be clear: there is no official warning to Ghum yet, but then let’s be realistic: if numbers dont perk up or, worse, keep sliding, how long will the channel tolerate? They have several shows waiting to be greenlighted
Having said that, desi audiences are also a weird breed. You never know when/why they might return? Channels have data on which tropes had flipped the script. I have seen shows with the worst flaws and casting rake in killer numbers.