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MC Interview: Salman Khan documentary, Gandhi biography: Veteran media executive Sameer Nair outlines upcoming shows amid theatrical push

MC Interview: Sameer Nair on Salman Khan Documentary, Gandhi Biography, and Applause Entertainment's Theatrical Ambitions

In a candid conversation with Moneycontrol, veteran media executive Sameer Nair, the CEO of Applause Entertainment, opened up about the company's ambitious slate of upcoming projects, blending high-profile documentaries, biographical series, and a strategic push into theatrical releases. With a career spanning decades in television and digital content, Nair has been instrumental in shaping India's entertainment landscape, from his days at Star India to leading Applause, which has produced acclaimed shows like *Scam 1992* and *Criminal Justice*. As the industry navigates the post-pandemic era, where streaming platforms and cinemas are increasingly intertwined, Nair's vision for Applause reflects a bold evolution, emphasizing quality storytelling that transcends mediums.

At the heart of Applause's upcoming lineup is a much-anticipated documentary on Bollywood superstar Salman Khan. Nair described the project as an intimate exploration of Khan's life and career, going beyond the glitz of his on-screen persona to delve into his personal journey, philanthropic efforts, and the controversies that have defined his public image. "Salman is not just a star; he's a phenomenon," Nair remarked during the interview. "This documentary aims to humanize him, showing the man behind the myth – his family ties, his work with Being Human, and how he's navigated the highs and lows of fame." The project, still in pre-production, is being helmed by a team of seasoned filmmakers who have previously worked on celebrity profiles. Nair hinted at exclusive access to Khan's inner circle, including interviews with family members and industry peers, promising a narrative that's both celebratory and introspective. He emphasized that the documentary isn't a puff piece but a balanced portrayal, addressing Khan's legal battles and media scrutiny while highlighting his enduring appeal to millions of fans. Set for a potential release on a major streaming platform, the documentary is expected to generate significant buzz, especially given Khan's massive following and the recent success of similar projects like Netflix's *The Romantics* on Yash Chopra.

Equally compelling is Applause's biography series on Mahatma Gandhi, a project that Nair sees as a timely tribute to one of India's most iconic figures. Titled tentatively as *Gandhi: The Making of a Mahatma*, the series will chronicle Gandhi's life from his early days in South Africa to his pivotal role in India's independence movement. Nair explained that the inspiration came from a desire to reintroduce Gandhi to younger audiences in a format that's engaging and contemporary. "In an age of short attention spans, we need to tell these stories in ways that resonate," he said. The series draws from extensive historical research, including lesser-known anecdotes from Gandhi's writings and biographies by authors like Ramachandra Guha. It will feature a multi-episode arc, with each installment focusing on key phases: his transformation through satyagraha, the Salt March, and his interactions with global leaders. Nair revealed that the production involves collaboration with historians and international consultants to ensure authenticity, while incorporating dramatic recreations and archival footage. Casting is underway, with a search for an actor who can embody Gandhi's quiet strength – rumors suggest names like Naseeruddin Shah or a fresh face for a modern take. Unlike traditional biopics, this series will explore Gandhi's flaws and internal conflicts, such as his views on caste and religion, aiming for a nuanced portrayal that sparks dialogue. Nair envisions it as an educational tool, potentially partnering with schools for screenings, and it's slated for release around Gandhi Jayanti in 2025.

These flagship projects are part of a broader strategy at Applause Entertainment to diversify beyond OTT platforms into theatrical releases. Nair discussed the "theatrical push" as a natural progression, driven by the success of films like *Scam 1992*'s theatrical re-release and the growing appetite for content that bridges digital and cinema. "The lines are blurring," he noted. "Audiences want stories that work on big screens as much as on their phones." Applause is gearing up for several cinema-bound ventures, including a thriller based on a real-life corporate scandal and a period drama set in colonial India. Nair highlighted the economic rationale: with streaming revenues plateauing due to subscription fatigue, theatrical releases offer higher upfront earnings and broader reach. He cited data from industry reports showing a 20-30% uptick in box-office collections for content-driven films post-COVID, attributing it to pent-up demand for communal viewing experiences. However, he cautioned that this shift requires careful curation – not every OTT story translates to theaters. "We select projects with cinematic scale: big visuals, ensemble casts, and universal themes," he explained.

Nair also touched on the challenges of producing in today's fragmented market. With competition from global giants like Netflix and Amazon Prime, as well as homegrown players like JioCinema and Zee5, Applause focuses on "premium, differentiated content." He praised the rise of regional storytelling, mentioning upcoming shows in Tamil and Telugu that explore local folklore with a modern twist. One such project is a supernatural thriller inspired by South Indian myths, blending horror with social commentary on gender roles. Nair stressed the importance of data analytics in greenlighting projects: "We look at viewer trends, but ultimately, it's about the gut feel for a good story." He shared anecdotes from his Star India days, where hits like *Kaun Banega Crorepati* taught him the value of mass appeal without compromising integrity.

Looking ahead, Nair outlined Applause's pipeline for the next 18 months, which includes a mix of genres to cater to diverse tastes. There's a comedy series starring rising stars, poking fun at urban millennial life; a crime drama delving into cyber frauds, inspired by recent headlines; and an international co-production with a UK studio on a spy thriller set against the backdrop of Indo-British relations. He expressed optimism about India's content export potential, noting Applause's efforts to dub and subtitle shows for global audiences. "Indian stories have universal resonance – think *Sacred Games* or *Delhi Crime*," he said. On the talent front, Nair is bullish on nurturing new voices, with mentorship programs for young writers and directors.

In reflecting on his journey, Nair credited his success to adaptability. From pioneering reality TV in India to embracing digital disruption, he's seen the industry evolve dramatically. "The key is to stay curious," he advised aspiring media professionals. Amid economic uncertainties, including ad revenue dips and production cost hikes, Nair remains confident in storytelling's enduring power. "Great content will always find its audience," he concluded.

This interview underscores Applause Entertainment's role as a trailblazer in India's media ecosystem, balancing innovation with cultural relevance. As projects like the Salman Khan documentary and Gandhi biography take shape, they promise to captivate viewers while pushing the boundaries of how stories are told and consumed. With Nair at the helm, the future looks vibrant for Indian entertainment, where theatrical ambitions meet digital dreams. (Word count: 1,028)

Read the Full moneycontrol.com Article at:
[ https://www.moneycontrol.com/entertainment/mc-interview-salman-khan-documentary-gandhi-biography-veteran-media-executive-sameer-nair-outlines-upcoming-shows-amid-theatrical-push-article-13340462.html ]