Transforming Daily Soaps: Actors Call for Positive Changes in Television Industry

In the demanding world of daily soap operas, actors are voicing their concerns and suggestions for improvement. They advocate for better working hours, respect for experience, and a shift towards diverse storytelling. Key figures like Roma Navani and Kanwar Dhillon emphasize the need for timely payments and a healthier work-life balance. With calls for a minimum episode bank and a focus on genuine talent over social media presence, the industry is urged to evolve for the benefit of both its artists and audiences. Discover the changes these actors believe could transform the television landscape.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 27, 2026, 05:22 IST

The Demands of Daily Soaps

Daily soap operas represent one of the most challenging formats in television, characterized by long hours and strict deadlines. While this genre continues to captivate audiences, many industry professionals believe there is room for improvement. Actors are advocating for healthier work conditions, enhanced storytelling, merit-based casting, and new opportunities to elevate the television landscape.

Valuing Experience

According to Roma Navani, the rigorous nature of daily soaps often requires seasoned actors to audition for every role. She argues that those with extensive experience and a diverse portfolio should not have to go through auditions repeatedly. Instead, a simple meeting or look test should suffice, as production teams should recognize the potential of established actors.

Creating an Episode Bank

Parakh Madan emphasizes the need for a minimum episode bank of seven to ten days. This would alleviate the pressure of tight shooting schedules, allowing for more manageable work hours and ultimately enhancing the quality of the content. She also highlights the importance of casting genuine talent over social media popularity, as the pressure to maintain an online presence can detract from an actor's craft.

Improving Working Hours

Niharika Chouksey calls for better working hours, noting that the current seven-day telecast schedule is exhausting for actors and compromises the quality of the shows. She believes that a more balanced approach would benefit both the cast and the production.

Embracing Diverse Narratives

Gaurav M Sharma advocates for healthier work schedules and the introduction of fresh talent and diverse stories. He believes that new faces and unique narratives are essential for keeping audiences engaged and for the industry's evolution.

Timely Payments

Kanwar Dhillon stresses the need for a more efficient payment structure in the television industry. Currently, many actors face payment cycles of 90 to 120 days, which can create financial strain. He suggests that payments should be processed monthly, similar to other professions, and advocates for reducing work hours to enhance creativity and overall show quality.