Rajesh Tailang: The Smart TV Revolution Transformed OTT into a Family Affair

Veteran actor Rajesh Tailang, known for his compelling performances across various mediums, offers a fascinating perspective on the evolution of over-the-top (OTT) platforms. He observes a significant shift in how audiences consume digital content, attributing this change largely to the widespread adoption of smart televisions.

Tailang recalls a time when OTT was primarily a solitary, personal experience.

"Initially, OTT was mostly a personal viewing experience," he explains. "People would watch on their mobile phones or laptops, perhaps late at night, enjoying content individually." This era saw the rise of niche shows and a more intimate connection between the viewer and the screen.

However, the landscape dramatically changed with the advent of smart TVs.

"Since the advent of smart TVs, OTT has also turned into a family viewing experience. Now, it's not just a person watching alone; it's the whole family gathered in the living room, much like they would for traditional television," Tailang points out. This transformation has brought OTT content into the communal space, making it a shared activity for households across the nation.

This shift has profound implications for content creators and storytellers.

With OTT becoming a family affair, the dynamics of storytelling and thematic choices subtly change. Creators now, consciously or subconsciously, consider the broader family audience, influencing the kind of narratives that gain prominence and appeal.

Tailang emphasizes the unparalleled reach of these platforms.

"The biggest change has been its reach. It has gone to tier 2, 3, 4 cities, and even villages, which is a big deal," he notes. This extensive accessibility has democratized entertainment, bringing diverse stories and high-quality productions to audiences who might not have had easy access to such content before.

Reflecting on his own work, Tailang is excited about upcoming projects like "Delhi Crime 3" and "Bandish Bandits 2," both sequels to critically acclaimed series.

He highlights that while the medium evolves, the core essence of good storytelling remains paramount. "Ultimately, a good story works everywhere. Whether it's a play, a film, or a web series, if the narrative is compelling and well-executed, it will resonate with the audience," he asserts.

The actor sees the current era as a golden age for artists and viewers alike, where the boundaries of creative expression are continually expanding.

The seamless integration of technology and storytelling, spearheaded by smart TVs, has not only transformed how we watch but also enriched the collective viewing experience, making entertainment more inclusive and widely available than ever before.