Renowned television producer Sunjoy Waddhwa, the creative force behind Sphereorigins and a string of acclaimed TV successes, is all set to launch his upcoming show Meri Bhavya Life, which premieres on 30th April 2025. In an exclusive interaction with TellyChakkar, Waddhwa opened up about the vision that inspired this thought-provoking series, the importance of recognising talent beyond physical appearance, and his perspective on why television continues to hold its own in an ever-evolving entertainment industry.
What inspired the concept of Meri Bhavya Life, particularly around the theme of body image and societal perception?
We were in discussions with the team at COLORS regarding new stories and themes. During those conversations, the concept of a young woman grappling with body shaming came up as an issue very much pertinent to today’s youth. We saw an opportunity to not just tell a story, but to send a strong message. Our intention was to reflect on how society often magnifies something that should never have been an issue in the first place
We’ve aimed to present Bhavya’s journey in a way that’s both relatable and empowering. It's about embracing who you are, and making sure the world respects you for it. We hope this resonates, especially with the younger generation.
As a seasoned producer, do you believe an actor’s weight should influence casting decisions?
Absolutely not, Sunjoy replies firmly. Talent should always be the defining factor, never weight or physical appearance. Every individual, no matter their size or shape, deserves respect, especially in a creative field. The focus should be on what they bring to the character, not on how they look.
He adds, ‘Unfortunately, there’s still a lingering bias in the industry. Meri Bhavya Life aims to challenge that narrative to show that self-worth and inner strength shine brighter than society’s shallow standards’
With the rise of OTT platforms, do you think television is losing its relevance, especially with shows going off-air in just a few months?
I don't believe OTT platforms are the enemy of television. In fact, they should be seen as complementary mediums. Television offers a different kind of storytelling, longer, more immersive. OTT, on the other hand, is ideal for concise, sharply crafted narratives.”
Shows going off-air quickly,” he explains, “is often a result of various factors from weak storytelling to poor marketing. It’s not fair to blame OTT alone. The solution lies in consistently creating compelling content, making the right casting choices, and promoting the show effectively.
Well, with a refreshing premise and a meaningful message, Meri Bhavya Life is poised to spark vital conversations and perhaps redefine what ‘mainstream’ looks like on Indian television.
