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Transforming Indian Television

Sameer Nair's influence on Indian television is comparable to Rupert Murdoch's impact on global media. In 2000, during a time when satellite broadcasting in India was still finding its footing, Nair took the helm as Head of Programming at Star Plus. He revolutionized the television landscape by introducing the groundbreaking game show Kaun Banega Crorepati and the iconic soap opera Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi.

Reflecting on His Legacy
"I have known Ekta for many years, and we share a strong rapport. She still embodies the same enthusiasm and creativity she had during the production of Kyunki and Kasauti Zindagi Ki on Star. Interestingly, both Kyunki Saas... and KBC premiered on the same day in July 1994. Ekta Kapoor is a masterful storyteller, and while her fiction work is widely recognized, her talents extend beyond that genre. Prior to 2000, Star Plus had a somewhat elitist reputation, but the introduction of KBC transformed the home-viewing experience entirely.

Building Applause Entertainment
As the CEO of Applause Entertainment, Nair has successfully developed the company into a prominent content provider. When asked about his secret to success, he stated, "The role of a storyteller is not to dictate thoughts or feelings but to inspire them. Our goal is to create engaging narratives. Establishing a scalable creative enterprise requires a blend of artistry, scientific approach, and a touch of magic, all while maintaining financial discipline. The journey has been both challenging and fulfilling, and the passion for storytelling makes every risk worthwhile. We look forward to crafting stories that are deeply rooted in local culture yet resonate with audiences worldwide.

The Evolution of Applause Entertainment
Nair described the transition from 'Applause Entertainment' to the 'House of Applause' as a rewarding journey filled with challenges. He expressed excitement for the future, emphasizing the commitment to continue producing stories that are locally relevant while appealing to a global audience.