Aahana Kumra Credits OTT Platforms For Unveiling Talents Like Pankaj Tripathi
Aahana Kumra Discusses the Impact of OTT and Theatre
Aahana Kumra, a versatile actress known for her work across TV, OTT, and films, recently attended Dish TV events in Indore, Lucknow, and Jaipur. At these events, she unveiled Dish TV's latest innovation, 'Dish TV Smart+,' and shared her thoughts on the rise of OTT platforms and the significance of theatre.

During the event, Kumra highlighted how OTT platforms have provided a stage for many artists who have long been dedicated to theatre but lacked opportunities to shine. She stated, "Many artists have been dedicated to theatre for years without getting a chance to shine. Without the rise of OTT platforms, we would never have discovered many new talents."
Kumra expressed her excitement about Dish TV's new product, saying it will allow viewers to access various OTT platforms in one place. "This innovation will undoubtedly give viewers access to a variety of OTT platforms, enabling them to explore a wide range of talents and new content," she added.
Kumra also mentioned how emerging talents from smaller cities are now getting recognition due to OTT platforms. She cited Pankaj Tripathi as an example, noting that his exceptional acting skills might have remained undiscovered without the rise of these platforms.
"Meeting artists from places like Jabalpur, Indore, Bhopal, Lucknow, and Bareilly reveals the depth of talent out there," Kumra said. "Take Pankaj Tripathi, an NSD graduate who is now finally receiving the recognition he deserves."
Theatre: A Medium of Expression
When asked about her first love in acting, Kumra said, "I've started with the stage i.e. theatre. Hence, theatre has always been my first love because I believe the stage is my medium of expression." She explained that while cinema involves directors and editors shaping the visual narrative, theatre allows her full control over her performance.
Kumra emphasized that she values recognition across all platforms but finds theatre particularly empowering. "In cinema, directors, editors, and DOPs determine the visual narrative. However, in theatre, I have control over my performance," she noted.
The Importance of Theatre
The actress stressed the importance of keeping theatre alive in India. She pointed out that many film actors also work in theatre but that this trend is less common in India compared to other countries.
"Many film actors work in theatre. I think this trend is less in India because once you become a film star, people think there's no need to look back," Kumra said. She added that despite limited support for theatre from the government, people do love it.
Kumra shared her own experiences performing in challenging conditions but still receiving immense love from the audience. "I performed in your JKK recently, literally performing till 11:30 at night despite the temperature being 8 degrees. But everyone stayed till the end," she recalled.
Dish TV Smart+: Bridging TV and OTT
The actress unveiled Dish TV Smart+, which offers customers access to both TV and OTT content across all screens at no extra charge. This new product promises convenience and flexibility while expanding entertainment choices for viewers.
"It promises convenience, flexibility, and an expanded array of entertainment choices," Kumra said about Dish TV Smart+. The innovation aims to empower customers to customize their viewing experience according to their preferences.