After creating the propaganda film Yatra, director Mahi V Raghav went on to produce a so-called crime drama web series called Shaitan on Hotstar.
Hotstar is currently the number one OTT platform in India. Despite not streaming IPL matches, the platform has managed to retain its customers and become one of the most-watched OTT platforms in the country. Therefore, it was shocking to see a semi-pornographic show like Shaitan being streamed on such a reputable platform.
The director claims that the show is a hit because of its viewership numbers. However, it should be understood that there is always a section of the audience that seeks out content involving sex, pornography, and vulgarity. For a platform like Hotstar, which is known for its family-friendly content, promoting a show like Shaitan has undoubtedly tarnished its reputation.
Even platforms like Ullu and Alt Balaji, known for their explicit content, would hesitate to stream a C-grade semi-pornographic show like Shaitan. In the long run, this decision to acquire such a show will drive away family audiences from the platform. Not only is the show filled with unnecessary explicit scenes involving a mother, police, and prostitutes, but the language used is also extremely vulgar.
Recent buzz in OTT circles indicate that this series has led to job changes within the top management at Disney and Star Maa. The current management is soon being replaced by another team due to the severe consequences of this decision.
As a result of the backlash from the Disney board, the management team is avoiding communication with the director, who is pushing for a second season.
With no other option to cash in on Disney with Shaitan Season 2 Mahi V Raghav has approached another streaming service to pitch his ideas. Not sure, if that platform is going to fall prey or escape wisely.
