EXCLUSIVE - Sonnal A Kakar Makes Her Mark As Producer With Jaane Anjaane Mai, A Gripping Tale Exploring The Aata Saata Tradition

Answer: I was drawn to the idea of telling a story that hadn’t been explored before, one rooted in the lesser known Aata Saata tradition. At its heart, Jaane Anjaane Mai is about two strong protagonists, Reet and Raghav, whose transactional marriage evolves into a journey of transformation. Reet, an investigative journalist, is a character I envisioned as embodying strength, compassion, and vulnerability. She’s not just a dutiful sister who shoulders her family’s responsibilities, but also a woman with her own voice and convictions. This balance of strength and emotion mirrors my belief in storytelling that upholds value systems while exploring deep emotional connections, not just romantic love, but love that extends to family and siblings. This project is my attempt to weave a narrative that highlights these complexities and delivers a fresh, impactful perspective.

Question 2: How does Jaane Anjaane Mai stand out in its portrayal of relationships and human emotions compared to other shows currently on air ?

Answer: Jaane Anjaane Mai stands apart because it goes beyond the conventional romantic narrative. While the evolving bond between Reet and Raghav is central, the show equally emphasizes the love and sacrifices within sibling relationships. Raghav for Unnati and Reet for Dhruv. It also delves into how a woman like Reet navigates her dual responsibilities toward her maika and sasural while staying true to her principles as an investigative journalist. Justice isn’t just a professional pursuit for Reet ; it’s deeply personal, and her empathy drives her to fight for the voiceless, no matter how big or small their battles. This multifaceted portrayal of love, duty, and resilience resonates beyond the typical, creating a rich emotional tapestry that audiences can relate to on many levels.

Question 3: After two decades in the industry, how has your transition to a producer broadened your perspective on content creation?

Answer: Transitioning to a producer has been both exciting and eye opening. Having spent 20 years in the industry, stepping into this role allowed me to create stories I believe in, with characters that feel authentic and relatable. Post pandemic, there’s been a noticeable shift in audience preferences, they now gravitate toward content that feels real, empowering, and emotionally resonant. Across mediums like OTT, YouTube, and television, the focus has moved from high drama to stories that connect with the viewers on a personal level. As a producer, there’s a heightened responsibility to strike the right chord with audiences, ensuring that the narrative not only entertains but also engages deeply with their evolving expectations.

Question 4: As both the writer and producer, how do you balance creative storytelling with the practicalities of production?

Answer: Balancing creative storytelling with production realities is always a delicate act, but it’s one I deeply enjoy. For me, the scale of production, whether it’s the grandeur of sets, an outdoor shoot, or a star studded cast is secondary to the story itself. A well written story that resonates with the audience will always have the strongest impact. That’s why I focused on crafting a narrative with conviction and assembling an ensemble cast that feels fresh and relatable. While some members are seasoned, many are newcomers or semi known faces, which adds an element of authenticity to the show. The key is striking the right chord ensuring that the creative vision translates seamlessly onto the screen. It’s not about extravagance; it’s about delivering a story that connects with viewers on an emotional level.

Question 5: How does Jaane Anjaane Mai align with Zee TV’s reputation for delivering impactful family-centric content ?

Answer: Zee TV has always been synonymous with content that celebrates family values, and Jaane Anjaane Mai seamlessly aligns with this legacy. The show not only explores familial bonds but also addresses the Aata Saata tradition, blending traditional values with contemporary sensibilities. Reet’s character embodies today’s empowered woman standing firm for justice, challenging societal norms, and striving to make a difference. The narrative beautifully intertwines themes of sibling love, familial responsibilities, and societal transformation, making it a perfect addition to Zee TV’s repertoire of impactful, family centric stories.