In an industry often divided by screens big and small, a fresh controversy has erupted over the value of television work. The debate ignited when actor Rohit Roy made sharp comments describing television as a "dustbin medium," prompting immediate pushback from industry professionals who see the small screen differently.

Key facts

  • Rohit Roy called television a "dustbin medium" in recent comments
  • Casting director Mukesh Chhabra publicly defended television's value
  • Chhabra is known for his work on 'Dhurandhar' and numerous Bollywood projects

A defense of the small screen

Mukesh Chhabra, one of Bollywood's most prominent casting directors, didn't mince words when addressing Roy's criticism. The man behind countless successful film and television castings understands both worlds intimately—and he sees television's worth clearly.

"Television has given opportunities to so many actors and technicians," Chhabra noted, his voice carrying the weight of someone who has watched careers blossom on both platforms. He recognizes television as a training ground, a place where raw talent gets polished and ready for bigger stages.

The industry's divided perspective

Roy's comments reflect a lingering hierarchy in entertainment—one that places film above television in prestige and artistic merit. But Chhabra's response suggests that perspective might be outdated, or at least incomplete.

Television work provides steady employment, creative challenges, and audience connection that films can't always match. For every actor who views TV as a stepping stone or fallback option, there are others who find genuine artistic satisfaction in serial storytelling.

More than just a platform debate

This isn't just about medium superiority—it's about recognizing the ecosystem that supports India's entertainment industry. Television funds households, builds fan bases, and keeps creative pipelines flowing.

Chhabra's defense comes from practical experience watching actors move between mediums, each offering different rewards and challenges. His position suggests that in today's content-rich environment, the lines between television, film, and digital are blurring—and maybe that's for the best.