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Veteran film producer and former CBFC chairperson Pahlaj Nihalani has launched a scathing critique of Ektaa Kapoor, accusing the TV mogul of distorting traditional Indian values through her long-running television shows. Nihalani made the remarks during an appearance on the YouTube channel Learn From The Legends, where he weighed in on the evolving landscape of Indian entertainment and its cultural impact.

Nihalani Slams Portrayal of Marriage in Daily Soaps

During the interview, Nihalani expressed concern over what he views as a decline in cultural representation on Indian television. While discussing the changing tone in Hindi cinema and its reflection of Indian epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, Nihalani contrasted it with content on television that, according to him, undermines cultural norms.

“But then, we as an audience are getting fed things like a woman getting married three times… Ektaa Kapoor, the great!” he said with sarcasm. “Here, men are not allowed to get married twice, and she gets these women married thrice! So the culture is slowly getting destroyed, shifted…”

He further lamented the rise of erotic and suggestive content, adding, “Earlier, there were very few erotic movies that were released, and now they are having sex even in the air.”

Changing Tastes, Changing Norms

Nihalani also reflected on the current shift in cinematic trends, pointing out how even mainstream Bollywood heroes like Shah Rukh Khan, once associated with romance, are now taking on action-heavy roles.

“Shah Rukh Khan, who was known for romancing in films like Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, even he is holding a gun in his films. So these films are working now. Take RRR, which was based on Ramayana and Mahabharat, and then in Kalki 2898 AD, the end was completely inspired by Mahabharat,” he explained. “Hindustani culture is still so strong in our society.”

Ektaa Kapoor: Controversial Yet Influential

Ektaa Kapoor, a towering figure in Indian television, has been both praised and criticised for her content. Shows like 'Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi' and 'Kahaani Ghar Ghar Kii 'made her a household name, but they have also drawn backlash for melodramatic narratives and regressive themes.

Beyond TV, she has produced several bold and unconventional films such as 'The Dirty Picture', 'Raagini MMS', and 'Veere Di Wedding' under her banner Balaji Telefilms. Kapoor also ventured into OTT with ALTBalaji, backing shows like Lock Upp hosted by Kangana Ranaut.

While Kapoor has yet to respond to Nihalani’s pointed remarks, the internet is already abuzz with debates over Indian TV’s role in shaping social norms and values.