One of the most famous directors currently ruling the television space is definitely Santram Verma. The director is surely a self-made man, and his body of work speaks for himself. He has delivered many hit shows like Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, Kasautii Zindegi Kay, Kahiin Toh Hoga, Kasamh Se, Virrudh, Bandini, Jodha Akbar and more. Even though involved in many controversies, the man has never let those affect his work.
Here, in a chat with the talented director, we spoke about his journey and life.
How did your journey in this profession begin?
Even after earning a professional degree in commerce, I was always very interested in theatres and performing arts. During my college days, in Meethibai College I was associated with the same theatre group, where noted actor Shreyas Talpade used to be a part of. We used to participate in inter college theatre festivals and many other competitions. After that I gradually started doing television and then Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi happened. After that there was no turning back for me.
You have mostly done Balaji Telefims’ show, what is the reason behind it?
Not that I have only done Balaji shows, there are many shows in my kitty produced by other production houses as well. But yes, I will definitely mention that I am very much comfortable working with Balaji. They always provide creative freedom for their employees; they have full faith in us and let us work as we want. I personally share a very similar wave-length with them.
Do you think that there have been many changes in the TV industry over the last few years?
I won’t say that there has been a drastic change in the industry, but definitely with time certain things are bound to change and the same has happened in TV too. With time the techniques which were used earlier have changed, and acting methods are different today. I personally believe that the biggest change that nowadays I can witness is that the soul is missing in the manner they work. Somehow, I think that everyone today is running after fame and money, and in the process they are missing out on the soul that should be present in their work.
Since you are directing Jodha Akbar, do you think it is more difficult to direct a period drama?
While making a period drama the initial phase is the most challenging one, as we need to do proper research and need to take care of the mannerism and the language. It is difficult to put that show into the time frame, when the incidents actually occurred in the history. Once we begin with the show and it strikes the right chords with the audience, then the main challenge is to continue with the quality.
What is the most important job of a director?
According to me, the most important function of a director is the ability to manage the entire production, being able to control the situations. Moreover, as a director, one should have the sound understanding of what will work with the audience and what will not. As a director one has to understand which character or plot can be used as his or her trump card.
Finally, you have been involved in many controversies, so how do you handle such situations?
The best way to handle such situations is simply not to react. It’s always better to concentrate on your own work rather than paying heed to the controversies centering on you. I don’t like discussing about such stuffs.
We wish the man all the best.
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