In a major programming shake-up, Star Plus has decided to bid farewell to its drama series Jhanak, despite the show’s recent attempt to reinvent itself with a 20-year generation leap. The series, created by renowned writer-producer Leena Gangopadhyay, will officially go off-air later this month. This move comes as part of the channel’s broader content strategy aimed at boosting viewership and streamlining its primetime lineup.
Jhanak’s Leap That Didn’t Land
Although the makers introduced a significant time leap to inject fresh energy into the storyline, the gamble didn’t pay off. New actors such as Riya Sharma, Twinkle Arora, and Arjit Taneja were brought in to lead the revamped narrative. However, despite their efforts and the buzz surrounding the leap, Jhanak struggled to climb the TRP charts. The show failed to resonate with audiences the way the creators had hoped, leading to a steady decline in ratings.
A Tough Choice: Jhanak Or Ishaani
According to industry insiders, Star Plus recently presented the production team with a critical decision—retain either Jhanak or its spin-off, Ishaani. After much deliberation, the makers chose to continue with Ishaani, which has shown promising signs of growth. The spin-off, starring Megha Chakraborty and Karam Rajpal, has carved out a loyal viewer base, especially after its shift to the 11 PM slot. Its consistent performance and audience engagement made it the safer bet for the channel.
Making Way For Legendary Comeback
The cancellation of Jhanak also clears the path for one of Star Plus’ most anticipated returns—Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi Season 2. The iconic family drama, which originally redefined Indian television, is making a comeback with a brand-new storyline. Smriti Irani, who became a household name through the original series, is set to headline the reboot. The show is expected to take over Jhanak’s time slot, signaling a strategic move to capitalize on nostalgia and proven success.
Focus Shifts to Performance
While fans of Jhanak may feel disheartened, the decision reflects the channel’s evolving priorities. With rising competition and shifting viewer tastes, Star Plus is prioritizing shows with steady ratings and strong engagement. Ishaani’s continuation reflects the channel’s faith in its long-term success and consistent performance.
