Sandiip Sikcand: Hindi shows chase ratings, regional prioritises storytelling

Actor-producer Sandiip Sikcand has increasingly found creative satisfaction in the regional space. After backing shows like Abolie, Aanandii, and Yedh Laglie Premache, he is currently producing the Marathi show Shubh Shravani. For Sikcand, the shift is not about language but about the freedom to tell original stories.

Speaking about the differences between Hindi and regional television, he says, “I am a storyteller, and for me, the story, not the medium or the language, is important. Any language that allows me to tell the stories I believe in excites me. The biggest difference is that regional television gives you the space to tell original stories. Today, a large percentage of Hindi shows are adaptations of regional content, which is unfortunate. Someone has to continue telling original stories, and that is a significant draw for me.”

On working conditions and what drives success across industries, Sandiip says, “A storyteller should be given the space to tell a story without unnecessary constraints. Hindi television often carries the pressure of immediate ratings. If a show does not perform in its first week, there is panic. In regional markets, there is comparatively more patience and trust in the storytelling process, and that makes a meaningful difference. Sincere storytelling and originality are the key factors behind success. This is visible in cinema as well. Every week, there is a new regional success, not just in the South, but also in Marathi and Gujarati industries. Hindi films are increasingly becoming projects rather than stories. Similarly, Hindi television often ends up chasing ratings, whereas regional content prioritises storytelling. That is what leads to successful films and shows. Content will always remain king.”

Despite his current focus on regional projects, he remains open to returning to Hindi television, provided the approach evolves. He says, “I would certainly return when there is greater openness to original content. There are ongoing discussions, and some channels have already asked for original concepts, so there is hope.”

While he continues to stay busy as a producer, the actor in him remains active, albeit selective. He shares, “Acting is, and will always remain, my first love. However, I do not actively pursue it. I see some excellent work being done on digital platforms and would like to be part of such projects. I do reach out to creators directly, and hopefully something will materialise soon. Theatre is another space I deeply enjoy, and I would be keen to return to it.”

He is also a regular on the sets of Bigg Boss as a guest panelist, though he has no plans to participate as a contestant. “I am approached every year, but I am certain that participating as a contestant is not for me. However, I enjoy being associated with the show as a panelist and would be happy to continue contributing in that capacity.”