SYNOPSIS:
Karan Wahi reflects on the evolving landscape of television and OTT, emphasizing the need for authentic storytelling over dramatic embellishments or viral trends.
Television has long carried tags like “repetitive” and “regressive” — labels born from its often non-evolving storytelling format. While many actors begin their careers on the small screen, it’s the lack of creative diversity that eventually drives them to explore newer platforms.
The shift isn’t about a lack of love for TV but a desire to break away from typecast roles and embrace more layered, dynamic characters. For many, OTT platforms offer that creative refuge — though breaking into the space can still be challenging for those known primarily for their TV work.
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Actor Karan Wahi, who successfully transitioned from television to OTT, reflects on the contrast between the two mediums. “TV and OTT cater to very different audiences. That said, there’s now a cross-culture emerging, with many TV shows being consumed on OTT platforms. Still, television could benefit from a little more realism — it would make a big difference,” he says.
Karan Wahi also sheds light on how post-production adds to the over-the-top nature of TV content. He says, “Television thrives on high-stake drama — but often, the actual drama isn’t in the scene itself. It’s in how it’s edited and presented. That sometimes takes away from the authenticity of the moment.”
Interestingly, he doesn’t hold back from critiquing OTT either. “Not all OTT shows are creatively strong,” Karan Wahi notes.
“We’re seeing a trend of making content just for virality. The need of the hour is to go back to storytelling — telling real, engaging stories like we used to. That’s what will truly elevate the content across platforms,” Karan Wahi ends the conversation.
