Talking about the growing popularity of reality shows and why audiences continue to invest their time in them, Gaurav says, “People are mostly on their phones all the time and most of them watch reels. Reality shows are publicised hugely in reels and they hook the audience in no time and lead them to the actual shows. And as much as we deny it, we all love controversies and fights. Since reality shows are full of them, they grab attention very quickly.”
He believes reality shows could become an even bigger part of the OTT landscape in the coming years. “I think the way people are bypassing web series and web films with time, reality shows are really going to take over all OTT content,” he says.
On the perception that reality television has become a shortcut to fame, Gaurav agrees that the format offers contestants a quick route to visibility. “True, it is indeed the easiest way to get fame these days. I see all the contestants trying to become the centre of attention in reality shows because that is the only way to survive and win. And as we all know, all is fair in a war,” he says.
Gaurav also feels that the difference between being an actor and being a star still exists, but the meaning of stardom itself has changed. “Yes, but the reality today is that the industry is hardly producing any stars anymore. Stardom has become very subjective. Gone are the days when people had stardom for years. Now one day you are a star and, thanks to social media, the next day someone does something controversial and suddenly he or she gets all the limelight,” he explains.
For Gaurav, however, popularity can never replace genuine acting ability. “But an actor is an actor. Craft never fails, a good actor still gets the respect he or she deserves. Controversies, overnight fame or a reality show cannot make you an actor,” he says.
Speaking about the aura and mystery that once surrounded Bollywood actors, Gaurav believes social media has changed the equation completely. “I think there is a race, and the only one who can win is the one who doesn’t take part in this social media race,” he says.
He adds, “The one who does good work and promotes it in a healthy way need not be on social media. The work will spread automatically, and he or she and the project will get the due.”
Having experienced the industry across television and other mediums, Gaurav believes that while trends and platforms may keep changing, strong work and a performer’s craft will always remain relevant. His journey, from shows like *Anupamaa* and *Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai* to his current project *Seher Hone Ko Hain*, reflects his continued focus on exploring different roles and mediums.
