I always prefer classic content as it takes me on a nostalgic ride to my old acting days, says Neena Gupta

by Suman Gupta

The classic shows of the 80’s and 90’s have been age agnostic and still holds a strong fan following. To rekindle the same love, Tata Sky launched Tata Sky Classic TV – service that promises to transport all Tata Sky subscribers to the golden era of Indian Television. The evergreen and critically acclaimed Neena Gupta has been roped in as the face of the service. Reminiscing her old days and her journey as an actor, Neena Gupta talks about classic content.

1. How are you associated with Tata Sky? 

I have been roped in as the face of Tata Sky’s new service Tata Sky Classic TV which has an interesting bouquet of all the popular and most loved shows from the 80’s and the 90’s.  The service will transport viewers into the golden era and offer an ad-free experience at an affordable cost of INR 2/- per day. I have also shot an amazing brand film to promote the same, where my audiences will see me reliving the good old days with my friends where we relish yesteryear shows.

2. What makes you connect with the classic series so much?

The 80’s and 90’s content has actually shaped and molded the Indian Television industry to what it is today. The quality of content during those times was not only realistic but engaging. The storyline and strong narratives highlighted the nuances of daily life of a commoner, the content was entertaining and had a realistic angle to it. For instance, my show Saans, though was not the most widely accepted theme but was definitely the most relatable one and something the Indian household could not discuss or showcase in the society accepted norms. On the other hand, some of the best sitcoms like Dekh Bhai Dekh, Hum Paanch, filled laughter across every household. TV shows from the ’90s still have massive followings today, and their influence was felt across all of television.

3. With more OTT content taking center stage, do you think such content will attract audiences to the platform?

I believe all the platforms like OTT, TV and movies have a place and an audience of their own. While the audiences still go back to their television sets, they are very eager to tune in on to the OTT channels and enjoy their choice and preference of content. I believe audiences still enjoy and watch shows like Saans, Fauji, Malgudi Days, Banegi Apni Baat etc that has been gems of yesteryears. The family viewing experience is something that they enjoy and love to watch.

5. What is your go-to content choice?

As an actor, I enjoy content across genres and platforms. It helps me understand the current industry trends and narratives. But I always prefer classic content as it takes me on a nostalgic ride to my old acting days.

6. Which are your favorite series on the platform?

I was always a fan of Shriman Shrimati, Fauji and Banegi Apni Baat.

7. We have seen you evolve as an actor over the years, but which is that one character that stayed in your heart forever?

As you rightly mentioned, I evolved as an actor with each character. Therefore, it gets difficult to put a finger on one character.  But if I have to name one my favorite character was Priya from my show Saans and from my recent favorite was my character in Badhai Ho.

8. Can you please share details of your upcoming projects?

There are few projects lined-up, some of them are Masaba Masaba Season 2, Panchayat Season 2, amongst others. There are few films that are lined up for next year such as Shiv Shatri Balmohar, Gwalior, Goodbye, Oh my dog, amongst others.