Payal Rohatgi says Ektaa Kapoor turns reality shows into TV serials, hopes Lock Upp 2 doesn’t have same fate | Exclusive

Payal Rohatgi: Ektaa Kapoor Turns Reality Shows into TV Serials, Hopes Lock Upp 2 Doesn’t Repeat Fate

Payal Rohatgi says Ektaa Kapoor turns - Payal Rohatgi, an actor and entrepreneur known for her candidness, has shared her thoughts on how Ektaa Kapoor’s influence has reshaped the landscape of reality television. In a recent exclusive interview with Hindustan Times, she highlighted her belief that Ektaa Kapoor has been instrumental in transforming reality shows into serialized content, a trend she worries might dilute their authenticity. While acknowledging the value of reality TV in personal and professional growth, Payal expressed her hope that the second season of *Lock Upp* would avoid falling into the same trap as other shows that have leaned heavily on scripted elements.

Reality TV as a Catalyst for Growth and Authenticity

Payal emphasized that her journey through reality shows like *Bigg Boss*, *Nach Baliye*, and *Lock Upp* has been a defining part of her career. "These shows have not just entertained me—they’ve taught me how to navigate conflicts, build resilience, and understand human behavior," she explained. The actor noted that her early experiences were marked by impulsive reactions, but over time, she learned to balance vulnerability with strength. "Ektaa Kapoor’s vision has helped these programs evolve, but it’s crucial to remember that reality TV’s charm lies in its raw, unfiltered storytelling." She added that while serialized formats can enhance drama, they risk overshadowing the genuine moments that make reality TV relatable.

“I’ve always approached reality shows and my films as something real. They’ve been a journey of growth for me, not just professionally but as a human being.”

Ektaa Kapoor, known for her successful ventures in the entertainment industry, has been a pivotal force in popularizing reality television in India. Payal Rohatgi says Ektaa Kapoor’s strategy of blending reality with serialized storytelling has created a new genre that blurs the lines between the two. She pointed to *Nach Baliye*, which she worked on, as an example where the show was designed to resemble a daily soap. "While it offered a structured narrative, it also made me question whether the essence of reality TV was being lost," she said. This critique extends to other shows that have adopted similar approaches, leaving Payal concerned about the genre’s future.

Scripted Drama and the Erosion of Authenticity

Payal Rohatgi says Ektaa Kapoor has been a driving force behind the script-heavy transformation of reality shows. She noted that producers often prioritize dramatic arcs over organic interactions, which can make the content feel less authentic. "When reality shows start feeling fictional, they lose their spontaneity," she remarked. This observation was sparked by her experience on *Nach Baliye*, where a writer partner crafted a love story to boost ratings. "The audience connects with real emotions, not contrived ones," she argued, emphasizing that authenticity is key to keeping viewers engaged.

“Reality show makers shouldn’t turn them into television serials. I’ve seen this happen many times, and it dilutes the essence of what makes reality TV unique.”

Despite these concerns, Payal remains optimistic about the potential of *Lock Upp 2*. She acknowledged that the show, hosted by Farah