Anurag Kashyap Calls Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos ‘Definition of Dumb’
Indian filmmaker Anurag Kashyap recently took a swipe at Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos, labeling him as “the definition of dumb” and criticizing the streaming giant’s initial strategy in India, particularly around the popular show “Sacred Games.”
“Sacred Games,” a neo-noir series directed by Kashyap and Vikramaditya Motwane, made its debut on Netflix in 2018, becoming the platform’s first Indian original series.
During a recent appearance on Nikhil Kamath’s “People by WTF” podcast in India, Sarandos reflected on Netflix’s early India strategy and the launch of “Sacred Games.” He expressed his initial excitement about the show, believing it would resonate with Indian audiences due to its cinematic feel and star-studded cast. However, he admitted that he underestimated the impact of introducing a new form of entertainment to a country as vast as India.
Sarandos acknowledged that in hindsight, he may have approached the launch of “Sacred Games” differently, possibly opting for more mainstream programming. Despite the challenges, he remained optimistic about Netflix’s journey in India, emphasizing the long-term potential of the market.
In response to Sarandos’ comments, Kashyap took to social media to share his thoughts. He criticized Sarandos for not starting with traditional Indian soap operas like “Saas Bahu,” which are immensely popular in the country. Kashyap expressed his belief that tech executives often lack an understanding of storytelling, dubbing Sarandos as “the definition of dumb.”
Kashyap’s reference to “Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi,” a long-running soap opera produced by Ekta Kapoor, highlights the contrast between traditional Indian content and Netflix’s approach to original programming. Interestingly, Kapoor’s company Balaji Telefilms recently announced a creative partnership with Netflix, signaling a shift towards more mainstream Indian content on the platform.
As the controversy unfolds, many are curious to see how Netflix will respond to Kashyap’s criticism. The clash between artistic vision and commercial strategy underscores the evolving landscape of digital entertainment in India.
For more updates on this story, stay tuned to Variety.
