Host-turned-actor Ratan Pratap enjoys juggling between digital & television*

Host-turned-actor Ratan Pratap enjoys juggling between digital and television space, and says, both the mediums are great to work with. “I was launched by a digital live broadcasting platform #Fame which was the biggest live entertainment network in India at the time and Digital space is where I got my first break as a host. The show used to air live so that was a huge challenge for me. I had never been on a set or worked with a production and an entire team of people before. I was a raw talent and didn’t know much about the technicalities of a studio. It was my then content producer, Neha Verma, who really helped me learn the ropes of the business, as it was difficult for me to host a live chat show because I wasn’t able to understand the viewers reactions. She really guided me and there was a huge improvement in my performance because of her constant support”, he said.

Ratan Pratap, who has hosted two seasons of a dance reality show, says that television space is one of the best to work on as it has a wider reach, especially when it comes to our country. “I think I am really lucky that I got to host a dance show like India Dance Week and that too for two seasons. Comparatively shooting for a show that is set to broadcast later on TV or digital is much easier than shooting for a live broadcasting show. And you can always retake an anchor link here if you screw up. But the stakes are definitely higher. I have realized that TV actually helps you reach a mass audience. Something that digital hasn’t been able penetrate completely”.

Ratan believes that the entertainment industry is very demanding and one has to be very careful about their decisions here. He has been garnering applause for his acting skills but they are currently limited to advertisements or promotions. He said , “At the end of the day if you are in front of the camera you are a brand. I know that I have upset a lot of people by not accepting acting offers. But I genuinely cannot just do something for money. I need to feel good about what I am doing. I never say no to acting for television commercials, unless it’s for fairness products or liquor brands. But when it comes to a full-fledged show you need to commit to the show full time for years. And if I don’t feel like my part is good enough I back out. I need to be happy with my work. If I am not happy I won’t be able to give my 100%. “

According to sources, Ratan Pratap is set to make his acting debut next year as he has been signed by a streaming network. When asked to throw more light on this Ratan refused to comment. He mentioned how things have changed post the pandemic. “I haven’t resumed work full time as none of my shows are currently on the floor. However, I recently shot for a commercial and I can see how everyone is as cautious as they should be. The new normal is something we all need to get adjusted to”, Ratan said .