A recent clash in the Indian entertainment industry has sparked buzz after acclaimed filmmaker Anurag Kashyap criticized Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos and took a jab at popular Indian soap operas. His remarks didn’t sit well with television czarina Ektaa Kapoor, who has now issued a scathing response.




The debate was triggered when Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos, in a conversation on a podcast with Zerodha's Nikhil Kamath, looked back on the platform’s initial venture into Indian original content. He expressed uncertainty about beginning with Sacred Games, suggesting that opting for a more mass-appeal format, such as family-oriented serials, could have been a smarter choice. “It was a bold move, but perhaps I should’ve leaned into more familiar styles first,” Sarandos admitted.

In reaction, Anurag Kashyap, one of the creative minds behind Sacred Games, expressed frustration on social media. He sarcastically stated that Sarandos should have started with saas-bahu dramas, labeling the Netflix head as "the very definition of dumb." Kashyap added that tech executives often lack understanding of storytelling nuances.


This sharp criticism prompted Ektaa Kapoor, who revolutionized Indian television with family-centric serials, to defend the genre and its influence. Without directly naming Anurag, Ektaa wrote in her Instagram story, “Calling others dumb doesn’t make you smart. Try being gracious instead.” She emphasized that daily soaps gave voice to Indian women and noted that their cultural impact is even recognized in global academic research, including studies by the University of Chicago.


Kapoor further slammed the elitist attitude often seen in certain artistic circles. “Those claiming inclusivity often practice subtle classism. We must break free from this ‘we’re superior’ mindset if we want equality and fairness,” she remarked.


Interestingly, her statement comes at a time when her production house, Balaji Telefilms, has officially partnered with Netflix India for a variety of upcoming projects across multiple genres. One untitled series is already in advanced development, suggesting that Kapoor’s creative influence is set to expand on the digital platform.


This heated exchange highlights the ongoing debate between popular entertainment and elite storytelling — with both sides firmly defending their creative choices.