On saying thanks

Manpriya Singh

When reality shows have become synonymous with superlative form of drama (read auditions, votes, rounds, aspirants, rejections, jury, star guests and the rigmarole of finding a winner), non-fiction sounds more like it.

Zindagi’s ongoing show Shukriya, celebrates a slice of reality, albeit in a different way. Shukriya highlights the power of the simple word that’s either uttered carelessly or neglected casually. “It’s a beautiful show; where the channel tied up with a radio station initially and later through Facebook invited entries from people wanting to say ‘thank you’ to anyone who made a difference in their lives. The response we received was overwhelming,” Gunjan Utreja, the host shares while in Chandigarh for a twin visit.

He adds, “In Season 1, we have shot 13 episodes, in which you’ll see a token gratitude shared between two brothers, a daughter wanting to say ‘thank you’ to her father, a girl to her grandparents, two sisters to their mother.”

City-centric

The episode shot in Chandigarh showcases the story of Akhil, a young boy who battled a tough time, bullies, ragging while adjusting to hostel life in the city. Akhil says shukriya like he means it, on a national television. A public note of thanks for helping make his transition to hostel life easier. It’s only a short while before the episode’s beloved and actual Nupur ma’am takes onto the stage and starts sharing on students that mean a lot.

Entertaining talk

Personally, it’s been a busy year for Chandigarh boy Gunjan Utreja. “I was watching Avengers when the channel called me up with the concept of the show and I immediately rushed to their office,” he shares, having also hosted Star Sports’ Pro Kabaddi League.

“I wanted to be an entertainer, which I discovered after hosting a lot of shows at Sector 17. So much so that I even quit a call from IIM Lucknow,” shares the pass-out from Saint Anne’s Convent School.

“My teachers would always say that this boy talks a lot.” Search for the best possible means of entering the world of entertainment led to a degree in mass communication. He laughs, “But my father was disappointed at not pursuing an MBA, so I handed over a degree from Symbiosis Pune for his satisfaction, only to be able to pursue my dreams with peace.”

It’s been five years since shifting base to Mumbai. “Right now I’m in Chandigarh for a rakhi visit and truly enjoying a good break after a long while.” Cheers to that.

The Teacher’s day episode to be telecast on Sunday, September 6 at 8pm on Zindagi.

manpriya@tribunemail.com