Did Ektaa Kapoor Just Call Anurag Kashyap Dumb for Mocking Saas-Bahu Dramas?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Ekta Kapoor defends the cultural significance of saas-bahu dramas.
- Anurag Kashyap criticizes Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos for his remarks.
- The impact of saas-bahu dramas on women's empowerment is well-documented.
- Collaboration between Balaji Telefilms and Netflix signifies a new chapter in storytelling.
- Diverse narratives in Indian entertainment are essential for inclusivity.
Mumbai, June 9 (NationPress) — Renowned television producer Ekta Kapoor has taken a stand against filmmaker Anurag Kashyap, who recently criticized Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos by labeling him as 'dumb' and suggesting that he should have initiated the platform's journey in India with 'saas-bahu' dramas.
During a podcast, Sarandos expressed uncertainty regarding the choice of launching Netflix Original in India with the Saif Ali Khan series Sacred Games, leaving Kashyap visibly upset.
In a post on Threads, Anurag vented: "He should have started with Saas Bahu... he would have succeeded. Which he is doing now. I always knew tech experts struggle with storytelling, but I didn’t realize that Ted Sarandos epitomizes that lack of insight. Discovering this explains a lot!"
In response, Ekta shared her thoughts on Instagram stories, emphasizing that “artists advocating for an inclusive world often exhibit classist behavior.”
She stated: “Ur so dumb... your comment places you at a disadvantage. I’m smarter and cooler, but how about showing some graciousness and self-awareness — qualities that many artists lack! The influence of 'saas-bahu' dramas on Indian society, particularly in empowering women, is thoroughly documented by prestigious research from Chicago! (sic)”
“Furthermore, artists who preach inclusivity often display a more classist attitude! We need to eliminate this 'you can’t sit with us' mentality for the sake of democracy and fairness! Sending love and light to all,” she added.
On her 50th birthday, it was revealed that Ekta Kapoor’s company, Balaji Telefilms Ltd, has partnered with Netflix for a creative collaboration across various storytelling formats.
Ekta commented, “At Balaji Telefilms, storytelling has always been our core focus—whether it’s through cinema, television, or digital platforms.”
She further expressed that collaborating with Netflix marks a significant milestone.
“This partnership enables us to share powerful, culturally significant, and emotionally resonant stories with a global audience. This new collaboration signifies an exciting chapter where we aim to push creative limits and deliver content that entertains, inspires, and connects people everywhere,” she elaborated.
Balaji and Netflix have previously worked together on several popular titles, including Kathal, Pagglait, Jaane Jaan, and Dolly Kitty Aur Woh Chamakte Sitare.
Ekta began her career at the age of 17, gaining fame for producing numerous Hindi television soap operas such as Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, Kahaani Ghar Ghar Kii, Kasautii Zindagii Kay, and Kahiin To Hoga.