‘It’s purely a coincidence’

Did BBC Entertainment carefully plan and launch Dancing With The Stars in India (the show has already completed its 11th season), just two weeks before curtains fell on Sony Entertainment’s Jhalak Dikkhlaa Jaa 4?

After putting up humongous hoardings across the city, BBC Entertainment flagged off the new season of Dancing With The Stars in India. The show runs twice a week on Thursdays and Fridays. At the time of going to press, there were no confirmations on the opening episode and first week averages of the show in India.

However, industry experts believe that with the same target audience as a Hindi general entertainment channel, this show is unlikely to get the kind of ratings that its desi adaptation, Jhalak Dikkhhlaa Jaa 4, received when it flagged off in December with judges Madhuri Dixit, Remo D’Souza and Malaika Arora Khan.

It’s even rumoured that BBC Entertainment carefully planned and launched season 7 of the show in India (the show has already completed its 11th season), just two weeks before curtains fell on Sony Entertainment’s Jhalak Dikkhlaa Jaa 4.

Deepak Shourie, director, South Asia, BBC Worldwide Channels, says, “Our programming schedule is devised keeping in mind the entire television environment. But the fact that Jhalak Dikkhlaa Jaa 4 closes when we start is purely good timing.” The desi version wraps up on Tuesday with performances from all contestants and judges.

The Guinness Book of World Records has rated the BBC format licensed to over 30 countries worldwide as the world’s most successful reality TV format.

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Despite claims that the show is India-centric, it doesn’t feature a single Indian contestant. However, Shourie is confident that it will be well received: “It’s only been a week. TAM data is still awaited. The buzz has been great. Original shows have their own charm and audience following, and the local versions will appeal to another audience segment.”