Indian Drama Serial On A Budget: 10 Tips From The Great Depression
Netflix India's acclaimed crime series Jamtara proves that big budgets are not always a barrier to quality. A cynical tale about how greed corrupts all, this show is both disturbing and hopeful.

Being savvy with money never gets old. Learn frugal tips from the Great Depression, and apply them to your daily life today.
1. Don’t overdo it with special effects

When it comes to Indian television, some of the most famous shows have been the ones that have gone big on special effects. But sometimes, this can go too far.

One example is Sacred Games, which stars Saif Ali Khan and Nawazuddin Siddiqui in the lead roles. The show delves into the life of a police officer who takes on a dangerous gangster. But despite its dark KumKum Bhagya Written Update and gritty premise, the series manages to keep you engaged with its well-scripted cat-and-mouse game.

Another example is Humsafar, which enthralled a nation and launched Fawad Khan and Mahira Khan to superstardom. The serial offered more than a romantic love story—it was a map of the human heart, and an exploration of how even the best of us can be flawed. It was all made possible thanks to the masterful direction of Sarmad Khoosat.
2. Don’t overdo it with locations

The rise of Indian drama serials with huge budgets has come at the expense of quality. These shows can be expensive to produce due to their larger sets, special effects, and cast remuneration. However, these costs are also a result of the popularity of foreign-shot locations and the rising cost of talent fees.

For example, a recent episode of Jamtara was shot in Bihar which is known for its poor economic conditions. While the show explores this conflict between rich and poor, it does so by playing into age-old stereotypes and doesn’t really offer anything new. It’s a shame because the show has great potential. This is a trend that needs to be stopped. It’s not just about making a bigger TV show but actually telling a story that is worth watching.
3. Don’t overdo it with actors

Producers are pumping in more money into daily soaps, whether it be for bigger sets or better special effects. It is no wonder then that the costs of shooting an Indian drama serial on a budget are rising to never-before-seen heights.

The makers of Devon Ke Dev Mahadev spent a staggering 14 lakh rupees per episode on special effects alone. Then you have to pay the actors, who demand higher remuneration now than ever before.

But the money is worth it, because serials like Jamtara prove that quality doesn’t need to be compromised on a tight budget. Brilliant performances from Osman Khalid Butt and Maya Ali make this harrowing tale of child rape compelling viewing. It is also a testament to writer Faiza Iftikhar’s versatility. Her ability to shift gears from the lighthearted Aunn Zara to this dark thriller is nothing short of extraordinary.
4. Don’t overdo it with sets

In an age where TV shows are competing with films for viewers’ attention, producers are willing to spend more money than ever before on their Indian drama serials. This is largely due to the popularity of OTT platforms and the growing demand for quality content. It is also due to the cost of bigger sets, special effects and skilled directors and writers.

For example, the popular saga Aunn Zara is a heart-wrenching story of child rape and the systemic failure to help victims. The series is backed by amazing performances from the cast and proves that budget should never limit quality.

Another great example is the Netflix hit Sacred Games, which stars Nawazuddin Siddiqui in the lead role. This epic cat-and-mouse thriller is high on drama, action and suspense and promises to keep you at the edge of your seat.
5. Don’t overdo it with costumes

With the cost of actors’ remuneration, sets, and special effects on the rise, it is no wonder Indian TV serials are becoming more expensive. But this doesn’t mean that you can’t produce a good show on a budget.

Whether you’re looking for an epic mythological series or a gripping drama, there’s something out there for everyone. Just make sure you stick to these simple tips when filming your next Indian drama.

Featuring brilliant performances from Osman Khalid Butt and Maya Ali, this Pakistani drama proves that you don’t need to have a huge budget to make a great show. From its cynical premise to its heartbreaking climax, Jamtara is an essential watch for anyone who wants to understand how greed can corrupt even the most morally pure.
6. Don’t overdo it with music

This series proves that a tight budget can’t detract from quality. With stellar performances from Osman Khalid Butt and Maya Ali, Dark Winds tells the gripping story of a child’s rape, highlighting the way our society fails victims. It’s an example of how great performances and brilliant camera work can overcome a tight budget.

According to reports, a single episode of Devon Ke Dev... Mahadev costs approximately 14 lakhs to produce. This is because of the special effects required in this mythological drama. The show even has a separate graphic department that comprises of 90 people! It’s no wonder that Indian TV is getting bigger and more expensive day by day.
7. Don’t overdo it with special effects

Indian TV shows are becoming more and more like feature films. This is mainly because the producers are spending money like crazy on the sets and hiring experienced directors and writers. But it’s important to remember that a show is only as good as its content.

A great example is Humsafar, a serial that enthralled a nation and launched Fawad Khan and Mahira Khan to stardom. The story was more than just a romance, it was a map of the human heart. It was filled with jealousy, love and despair.

Another example is Sacred Games, which tells the tale of a police officer and a mobster who are on a cat-and-mouse chase. The series was filmed in three different sovereign nations and boasts an impressive cast. Its strong script and brilliant performances make it one of the best Indian drama serials ever made.
8. Don’t overdo it with actors

Increasingly, Indian TV dramas are getting bigger and costlier. Whether it is because of a Bollywood star taking on a fiction series or simply the cost of shooting in foreign locales, producers are investing more and more in these shows. Adding to this are the costs of grander sets, special effects and skilled directors and writers.

Sacred Games has broken the record for the most expensive Indian TV show ever, with its first season costing about Rs 100 crore. This is largely due to the high remuneration paid to actors and the cost of filming in exotic locations. But a good story and great performances can make a show stand out, even on a small budget. The example of Humsafar proves this. This is a powerful love story that also maps the deepest emotions of a nation.
9. Don’t overdo it with locations

The ever-increasing costs of infrastructure and location shoots are making TV serials increasingly expensive. In fact, some of them are starting to cost as much as a feature film. Moreover, actors, directors and writers are charging never-before prices for their services.

But despite the rising costs, some Indian dramas are still delivering. Jamtara – based on an American series – is one such example. It features Anil Kapoor and an impressive cast that includes Tisca Chopra, Mandira Bedi and Shabana Azmi. It is a sprawling and entertaining drama that manages to avoid slipping into clichés. The show proves that a good script and great performances can overcome any budget limitations.
10. Don’t overdo it with sets

Many Indian TV shows feature sets that are overdone and look incredibly fake. This is especially true for mythological serials like Devon Ke Dev... Mahadev, which reportedly has a graphics department that employs 90 people.

It’s important to remember that the budget for a TV drama should be spent on things that will actually enhance the quality of the show. This includes hiring skilled directors and writers, as well as investing in high-quality camera work.

Featuring superb performances from Sanam Saeed and Fawad Khan, Humsafar enthralled a nation and launched both its stars to superstardom. This show is a testament to director Sarmad Khoosat’s unique directorial style. The many-layered story explores the depths of human love and how some things can never be taken back. It’s a must-watch! Sacred Games is another example of a top-notch Indian drama.