Prime Video’s latest series, Dupahiya, has quickly captured the audience’s attention, thanks to its engaging storytelling, humor, and strong social message. However, many viewers have drawn comparisons between Dupahiya and Panchayat, another widely popular show set in rural India.

Director Sonam Nair sheds light on these comparisons, discusses the importance of storytelling over settings, and shares her thoughts on using entertainment to highlight social issues.

A Story’s Setting Should Not Define Its Narrative," Says Sonam Nair on Panchayat Comparisons

Since its release, Dupahiya has been frequently compared to Panchayat, primarily because both series are set in rural landscapes. However, Sonam Nair firmly believes that grouping shows solely based on their settings is an unfair generalization.

She explains that audiences tend to categorize stories too broadly—labeling them as “village shows” or “crime dramas” when, in reality, there are only a handful of possible settings available. The true essence of a series lies in its story, not just where it takes place.

She argues that just as every love story isn’t a remake of DDLJ, every village-based story isn’t automatically a replica of another show. Instead, she encourages audiences to focus on what each show uniquely brings to the table rather than lumping them into the same category based on their backdrop.

Is the Panchayat Comparison Frustrating? Sonam Nair Sees It as a Compliment

When asked if she finds the comparison to Panchayat frustrating, Sonam Nair had a refreshingly positive outlook.

Rather than being annoyed by the parallel, she welcomed the attention and saw it as an opportunity to attract a similar audience. She expressed that being compared to one of the most successful and beloved Indian web series was actually a huge compliment.

For her, if fans of Panchayat are drawn to Dupahiya, it only means that the show has been placed in good company. Instead of being defensive, she hopes that viewers will give Dupahiya a chance and appreciate its unique story and themes.

Dupahiya Tackles Dowry and Generational Conflicts with Sensitivity and Humor

At its core, Dupahiya is more than just a lighthearted comedy. It addresses the sensitive issue of dowry, an age-old practice still prevalent in parts of India. However, rather than presenting it in a preachy manner, the show weaves the message into its narrative naturally and with humor.

Beyond dowry, the series also touches on the generational divide—exploring how the youth chase modern ambitions while the older generation struggles to understand them.

It asks important questions:

• Is abandoning traditions always the right choice?
• Should one blindly follow modern dreams without considering family values?
• How does a father’s relationship with his children evolve as times change?

Sonam Nair believes that storytelling should not just entertain but also leave audiences with something to think about.

Entertainment with a Message: Sonam Nair on Socially Conscious Filmmaking

While some filmmakers focus purely on entertainment, Sonam Nair prefers to create content that strikes a balance between fun and meaningful storytelling.

She believes that while films and series should be engaging, they should also spark conversations and provoke thought. Even if a show doesn’t carry a major social message, she hopes that it will at least leave viewers with insights about life and relationships.

According to her, every project she undertakes aims to connect with audiences on a deeper level, ensuring they take away emotions, perspectives, and reflections—long after the credits roll.

Dupahiya’s Star-Studded Cast Brings the Story to Life

The series boasts a power-packed cast, including Gajraj Rao, Renuka Shahane, Sparsh Shrivastava, Shivani Raghuvanshi, and Bhuvan Arora. Each actor brings authenticity and charm to their roles, making Dupahiya a must-watch for fans of heartwarming storytelling.

With its humor, relatable characters, and thought-provoking themes, Dupahiya is set to leave a lasting impact on audiences, much like other great Indian web series.