1 July 2023, Mumbai: Aahana Kumra, known for her remarkable performances in various web shows and films, revealed that she has not watched any Hindi language content on OTT platforms for the past two years. The actor expressed her preference for global content, citing a lack of variety and excessive repetition in Indian shows as the reason for her disinterest.
Kumra, who has garnered praise for her roles in popular web series such as “Betaal,” “Marzi,” and “Call My Agent,” stated that the influx of content from the international entertainment industry offers a wider range of options for viewers. She emphasised that people are constantly striving to create something different and innovative in global shows, which has captivated her interest. The actor admitted that she had grown tired of the “cringe” factor prevalent in Hindi OTT shows, leading her to explore Korean dramas and English shows for a more exciting viewing experience.
The 38-year-old actress highlighted the repetitive nature of Indian shows, particularly in the murder mystery and investigative genres. She expressed her boredom with such content and mentioned that she has been receiving more film offers than OTT offers in the last two years.
One aspect that Kumra believes may deter OTT audiences is the excessive use of cuss words and vulgarity depicted on screen. However, she firmly stands by the principle that it is solely the audience’s prerogative to choose the content they enjoy and can relate to. Kumra asserted that viewers have the power to switch channels or avoid watching content that they find disturbing or harmful. She strongly opposes the idea of censorship on OTT platforms.
The talented actor shared her perspective on the ongoing debate surrounding censorship, stating that the decision of what to watch should ultimately rest with the audience. She questioned the feasibility of banning content on platforms like YouTube, where children have unrestricted access. Kumra emphasised that the OTT audience comprises individuals from various age groups, ranging from 16 to 60 years, who are intelligent enough to make their own choices. She further emphasised that censorship would not significantly impact their viewing preferences.
Aahana Kumra’s candid revelations about her shift towards global content and her aversion to repetitive Indian shows on OTT platforms have sparked discussions on the state of the industry. The actor’s firm belief in the power of viewers to make informed choices and her opposition to censorship shed light on the evolving dynamics of the digital entertainment landscape.
By: Tanya Chantola