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Behind the Scenes with Jessica Khurana: Crafting Unique Talk Show Experiences

In an exclusive interview, Jessica Khurana, co-writer of the popular talk show 'Two Much With Kajol and Twinkle,' shares her creative journey and the challenges of writing for a format driven by spontaneous celebrity interactions. She discusses the importance of thorough research, the unique perspective brought by female creators, and her aspirations for future projects. Khurana reflects on her experiences in Bollywood, emphasizing authenticity and the gradual path to success. Dive into her world as she navigates the complexities of writing for television and her vision for impactful storytelling.
 

Exploring the Creative Process of 'Two Much With Kajol and Twinkle'

Writer Jessica Khurana shares insights into her role as a co-writer for the engaging talk show 'Two Much With Kajol and Twinkle.' With a plethora of questions surrounding the writing process, she reveals the complexities of crafting a show that thrives on spontaneous guest interactions.


Khurana openly expresses her initial concerns about the lack of control over the show's direction compared to scripted narratives. She questions the need for recognition in such a dynamic format, stating, “I often wondered if we should even seek acknowledgment for our contributions.”


However, she emphasizes the importance of thorough research, especially when working with high-profile celebrities. “We must ensure accuracy since we are dealing with well-known figures,” she explains. The challenge intensifies with four celebrity guests, as the questions must align with their status and unique personalities. Despite their insider knowledge, the show aims to avoid sensationalism or gossip.


What sets this show apart in a crowded market is the vision of female creator Mrinalini Jain, along with two female hosts, providing a distinct feminine perspective. Viewers have particularly enjoyed episodes featuring Alia Bhatt and Varun Dhawan, as well as Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan, but Khurana's favorite remains the special with Govinda and Chunky Panday. She admires Govinda's ability to foster warm conversations without causing controversy.


Reflecting on her journey from Ludhiana to the entertainment industry, Khurana believes authenticity is key to fitting into this glamorous world. She takes pride in the growing presence of Punjabis in Bollywood and cherishes her interactions with guests like Vicky Kaushal, who shares her Punjabi roots.


Khurana's entry into writing began unexpectedly when she assisted Vikram Bhatt during a writers' crisis for the web series 'Hadh.' She learned valuable lessons from Bhatt about simplicity in storytelling. Her experience with Ekta Kapoor, known for her sharp business acumen, further shaped her understanding of what resonates with audiences. She also holds Niranjan Iyengar, the executive producer of 'Two Much,' in high regard for his versatility across genres.


Looking ahead, Khurana aims to focus on progressive themes that address real-life issues without being overly didactic. She is currently working on a courtroom drama and a project titled 'Maharagni: Queen of Queens' starring Kajol. Despite her rapid ascent in the industry, she reminds aspiring writers that success is a gradual process, advising them to embrace opportunities wholeheartedly.