Mumbai: Zee TV is all set to introduce two inspiring narratives that are bound to make viewers look at life from a fresh perspective. While Rishton ka Manjha, produced by Tent Cinema, will instill a fresh burst of positivity via its optimistic lead protagonist with a ‘never say die’ attitude – Diya, the next show Meet, produced by Shashi Sumeet Productions, is all set to raise pertinent questions about the roles set aside for the sexes in every Indian household and build a strong case against gender discrimination.
Stirring optimism amongst viewers, Rishton Ka Manjha will explore the intense love story of Diya and Arjun who, despite being players of the same sport, share very contrasting outlooks towards life. Based in Kolkata, the show revolves around Diya, (played by Aanchal Goswami) – a bright and chirpy middle-class Bengali girl who hopes to build a meaningful life for herself and support her middle-class family. No matter what curveball comes her way, she stays afloat saying “Kuchtohtodnikaal hi lenge”. On the other hand, Arjun, essayed by Krushal Ahuja, is a former Badminton champ who comes from an affluent Marwari business family. He has given up on life after a scandal jeopardizes his career and even his near and dear ones don’t support him through his most testing times! How Diya shines the light of optimism and reinforces Arjun’s belief in her philosophy – “If all isn’t well, it isn’t the end” will form the crux of the show.
At 7:30 PM, Zee TV is all set to introduce viewers to the journey of a spirited young girl from Haryana – Meet who, contrary to the popular perception that only a son can be a ghar ka chiraag, is the ghar ‘ki’ chirag for her family. Not only is she the sole breadwinner for her family taking full responsibility for everything around the house, but she also breaks the societal rule books of gender roles by serving as a delivery agent and generally being the ‘fixer’ in any and every situation that a guy is typically expected to be! She’s not a rebel, it’s just that her authentic approach towards life doesn’t include investing undue time and energy in her personal grooming only to fit her family’s ideals of a ‘suitable girl’. Instead, she believes in getting her hands dirty and getting the job done! She often quips in her Haryanvi andaaz, “Jimmedariko ke patau se nibhane wala chhorahai kechori”.While television actress Ashi Singh will take on a unique avatar to play the title role of Meet, actor Shagun Pandey will be seen playing the male lead, who coincidentally is also named Meet in the show.
Zee TV Business Head Aparna Bhosle said, “Our 7 to 8 PM slot now packs in twice the excitement for our viewers with two new stories that will not only entertain but inspire and spread positivity amongst our viewers. While Rishton Ka Manjha talks of the power of optimism and never losing sight of the light at the end of the tunnel – an extremely relevant message in the current context, Meet brings you a spirited protagonist who will shatter gender stereotypes and prove that a girl, today, is as adept, if not more, at juggling responsibilities both within and outside the house. We look forward to our audiences falling in love with these new members of the Zee TV kutumb.”
Commenting on Meet’s premise, producers Shashi and Sumeet Mittal said, “While there are certain shows that entertain audiences, there are some that manage to make them sit up and think about life, question their mindsets and hope to bring about a positive change over a period of time. Meet, for us, is that exceptional story, that will not only touch people’s hearts with its engaging narrative but also get them to introspect. Our lead protagonist is a Haryanvi girl who believes that when it comes to the responsibilities of a house, it shouldn’t matter if it is a man or a woman fulfilling them. A delivery agent, a fixer for every little problem around the house or even her neighbors, a provider for her family, she is every bit the ghar ka chirag that people typically consider the son of the house. Through her example, we hope more and more families begin to view the women in their house as completely capable of juggling responsibilities both inside and outside the house.”
While Diya is all set to shine her torch and show Arjun the way back to hope and positivity, Meet is geared to challenge the gender stereotypes set by society.
The two shows are set to premiere on 23rd August and are slated to air every Monday to Saturday, at 7 pm and 7.30 pm respectively.