Saas-Bahu & Indian TV: A Missed Opportunity?
- Filmmaker anurag Kashyap has strongly criticized Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos for recent remarks questioning the choice of Sacred Games as one of Netflix India’s initial original series.
- The disagreement arose after Sarandos discussed Netflix's early strategies in India on Nikhil Kamath’s podcast.
- Kashyap responded to Sarandos’ comments with an Instagram post featuring a screenshot of a news article about the remarks.
Explore the fiery exchange as Anurag Kashyap slams Netflix‘s CEO over comments related to ‘Sacred Games,’ highlighting a clash of perspectives on content strategy. Kashyap, known for his candid style, didn’t hold back when addressing Ted Sarandos’ doubts about the show’s impact. Discover how the filmmaker responded to suggestions that Netflix might have benefited from more mainstream, ‘Saas-Bahu’ content at the outset. We delve into the nuances of Netflix’s strategy in India, including its new collaboration with Ekta Kapoor. News Directory 3 offers an insightful look at the evolving landscape of Indian television and streaming wars, dissecting the tension between artistic vision and mass appeal. What future content trends and audience preferences will emerge? Discover what’s next …
Anurag Kashyap Slams Netflix CEO Over ‘sacred Games’ Doubts
Updated June 08, 2025
Filmmaker anurag Kashyap has strongly criticized Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos for recent remarks questioning the choice of Sacred Games as one of Netflix India’s initial original series. Kashyap, a creator of the series, didn’t mince words in his response.
The disagreement arose after Sarandos discussed Netflix’s early strategies in India on Nikhil Kamath’s podcast. Sarandos wondered if launching with Sacred Games in 2018 was optimal,suggesting more ”populist” content might have been a better approach. Kashyap also alluded to Ekta Kapoor’s collaboration with the streaming service.
Kashyap responded to Sarandos’ comments with an Instagram post featuring a screenshot of a news article about the remarks. “He should have started with Saas Bahu… he would have done well. Which he is doing now,” Kashyap wrote. “I always knew the tech guys are dumb when it comes to storytelling, but @tedsarandos is the definition of dumb – that I didn’t know. Good to discover that. This explains everything now.”
Netflix recently announced a collaboration with ekta Kapoor, coinciding with her 50th birthday on June 7.Kapoor will produce content for the platform. Sacred Games, featuring Saif Ali Khan and Nawazuddin Siddiqui, initially garnered praise and was considered a landmark for Indian streaming content. Kashyap and Vikramaditya Motwane directed the show,which was lauded for its compelling narrative and high production standards.However, its second season received mixed reviews, and the series was not renewed.
What’s next
The exchange highlights ongoing debates about content strategy and audience preferences in the competitive streaming market, especially in diverse markets like India, where finding the right mix of niche and mainstream content is crucial for success in the streaming industry.