PremiumBad Cop actor Saurabh Sachdeva: Always had that fear OTT should not become khichdi | Exclusive
In an exclusive interview with OTTplay, Saurabh Sachdeva raises concerns over the quality of content on OTT platforms.
Last Updated: 01.30 PM, Jun 23, 2024
Saurabh Sachdeva, after leaving an impressive mark with his performance in Animal, is now currently seen in the Disney+ Hotstar series Bad Cop. He plays the role of a CBI officer in the series, co-starring Gulshan Devaiah and Anurag Kashyap. In an exclusive interview with OTTplay, Sachdeva expressed profound concerns regarding the current state of content saturation on OTT platforms. The actor delved into the challenges faced by both creators and viewers in the rapidly evolving digital entertainment landscape.
Saurabh Sachdeva raises concerns over content quality
Sachdeva began by addressing his apprehensions about the growing trend of quantity over quality in OTT content. "I've always had that fear that it should not become khichdi (mishmash), ke sab kuch ho raha hai, jaldi jaldi log bana rahe hai (where everything is happening quickly and people are creating just for the sake of it)," he remarked, emphasising the need for meaningful content amidst the surge of productions.
Citing concerns similar to those surrounding traditional television, Sachdeva cautioned against content homogenization, where originality takes a backseat to rapid production cycles.
The actor emphasised the dilemma that viewers with access to numerous streaming platforms face. "Aur bhi channel khulte ja rahe hai, aur peeche ja rahi hai (more channels are opening up, and it's becoming overwhelming)," he noted, pointing out the overwhelming proliferation of streaming services.
Importance of captivating audiences
With viewers' attention spans dwindling, Sachdeva stressed the pivotal role of captivating audiences within the first few minutes of a show. "Those 10-15 minutes, it's so crucial now we have to bombard that and wahaan pe blast hona chahiye (something that stops the audience in their tracks)," he remarked, underscoring the necessity for compelling narratives that retain viewer interest from the outset.
Sachdeva also voiced his concern over the potential consequences of unchecked content expansion. "Just the fear is that the content should not go like kuch bhi hota rahe (shouldn't become chaotic with anything and everything happening)," he cautioned, advocating for a mindful approach to content creation that prioritises quality and innovation.
Acknowledgement of OTT's positive impact
Despite his reservations, Sachdeva acknowledged the positive impact of OTT platforms in providing opportunities to a diverse array of talents behind and in front of the camera. "It has given a lot of opportunity to the crew members, to actors, and to people who are working day and night," he acknowledged, highlighting the platform's role in democratising access to creative expression.