EXCLUSIVE: Agra Affair writer Sankalp Raj Tripathi reveals USP of show; admits writing romance now is ‘challenging’ as compared to ‘90s

At the heart of Agra Affair, a captivating series that appeals to viewers young and old, are themes of love, aspiration, and the enchanting allure of small-town life. Author Sankalp Raj Tripathi skillfully blends his intimate connection with the human spirit and deep emotional insights, crafting an engaging tale. In a special conversation with TopMob, he opens up about his creative journey, fondness for small-town narratives, and the distinctive charm of the show. He also discusses the ongoing transformation in writing romance today, highlighting how it varies significantly from the more straightforward representations of the ’90s.

Judging by the trailer, it seems that “Agra Affair” is about mixed-up romantic feelings. Is there any relation to your own experiences?

In creating a story, there’s usually a piece of the author within it. The Agra Affair resonates with many as it explores themes like love, family, ambition, and perseverance. However, the ‘tangled romance’ aspect doesn’t mirror my personal experiences. In fact, I’ve always been clear-cut about two aspects of my life: my career and my relationships. I married my wife after knowing her for 15 years, so claiming that I was ever uncertain in love would certainly prompt a reprimand from her, given the stories I’ve shared with her about my consistency over the years (laughs).

3. In my fervent admiration for your work, I can’t help but wonder if, following “Crushed,” you find yourself returning to the realm of romance once more. Could it be that this genre serves as a sanctuary, a comforting haven, for you?

Instead of referring to it as an “unsafe space,” you could describe it as your “preferred area.” You started your writing career contributing to Crime Patrol. In this role, my aim was to convey the emotions of the characters amidst crime and police investigations. I strongly believe that audiences mainly recall stories due to the characters’ feelings, and narratives devoid of human emotions are incomplete.

In my writing, I tackle various genres such as crime, thriller, or horror, but what truly defines my stories are their dramatic and romantic undertones. It’s emotional depth that captivates readers. This is evident in Crushed, and it holds true for Agra Affair as well. However, a story becomes complete with the inclusion of aspirations and conflicts, and a robust central plot is essential to highlight the characters’ journeys effectively.

3. In your previous story, “Bravehearts”, you took a different approach compared to “Crushed” and “Agra Affair”. Was this change in style intentional, or did something prompt it?

Following the completion of Bravehearts, we delved into numerous installments of Crushed, a series that garnered significant viewership on Amazon MX Player. Bravehearts served as my tribute to our nation and its military heroes. Without their service, we wouldn’t enjoy the liberty to narrate stories today.

As a lifestyle advocate, I firmly believe that love stands as the most potent emotion we can experience. In my narratives, whether they echo the passion of Braveheart, the intrigue of the Agra Affair, or the heartache of Crushed, the core theme remains love’s profound impact. In these challenging times, characterized by stress, turmoil, and conflicts, I firmly advocate for the cultivation and preservation of love, as it offers a beacon of hope and resilience in our world.

To put it simply, I share tales filled with intriguing ideas. The ability to do so comes from the tremendous backing I receive from Aditi Srivastava, CEO of Pocket Aces Pictures, and my esteemed colleagues like Janaki Amrite, Sanket Kunde, Prashant Oberoi, and Kartik Krishnan at Dice Media. I’m deeply appreciative of their support. Aditi was the one who initially believed in my stories and provided me with full creative liberty to write and produce. This is why I can craft narratives like Bravehearts as well as look forward to working on projects such as Crushed or Agra Affair. I’m truly thankful for their trust and encouragement.

4. What do you think is the USP of Agra Affair?

The Agra Affair is a tale that unfolds smoothly, much like the tranquil city it’s based upon. It encompasses love, family, feelings, ambitions, drama, deceit, and life’s valuable lessons—all presented within a serene narrative. In cities such as Agra, conflicts and teachings possess a distinct sense of calm. While these cities may encounter the same difficulties found in bustling metropolises, they address them gently, allowing people ample time to ponder and absorb.

As a devoted fan, I’d say what sets this show apart is its authenticity and deep connection with its roots. The characters are as distinct as the enchanting city of Agra – the city of love. It’s the kind of tale that spans generations, from 8-year-olds to 80-year-olds, a story that families can gather around during dinner or tea time and enjoy together. Rather than feeling drained after watching, it might spark curiosity, leading to another cup of tea, shared smiles, and lively discussions about the captivating narrative.

5. Is writing romance today different from writing it in the ’90s and 2000s?

1) It’s innate for humans to adapt as time passes. If one fails to evolve, they may always feel unfulfilled. Writing romance nowadays is both demanding and essential, yet fulfilling. In our modern era, where people frequently reside away from home and are preoccupied with careers and wealth, the deepest emptiness they experience is a lack of love. A simple act of kindness can brighten someone’s countenance with joy.

Today’s generation is deeply thoughtful and emotionally perceptive. They appreciate complexity in storytelling, making it impossible for love stories to be overly straightforward or superficial. Instead, they need rich narratives that mirror the societal and global developments since the 1990s. We must acknowledge the emotional maturity of modern audiences and understand that crafting romance today necessitates a more subtle and intricate approach.

6. Why do you prefer writing small-town stories?

That’s where tales are born. As previously stated, small towns retain an atmosphere of tranquility, a leisurely rhythm, and moments for introspection. It’s not that I exclusively wish to narrate small-town stories, but given my origin in Lucknow, it’s only natural that my recollections and ties are rooted there.

One more reason to consider is that a considerable portion of our current audience continues to live in smaller rural areas, as our values and traditions are strongly tied to these communities. Furthermore, large urban areas have become home to many who migrated from these smaller towns in pursuit of their dreams. As a result, regardless of whether the audience hails from small towns or big cities, compelling content can resonate with everyone.

7. If given the chance to write a project featuring the three Khans, what genre would you choose?

If “blockbuster” were a genre, that’s what I’d strive to produce. It’s a dream shared by many creators across this nation. Yet with this aspiration comes significant responsibility. The three Khans have contributed immensely to our industry and have become integral parts of our lives. Should the day arrive (and I sincerely hope it does), it would undoubtedly be both the most joyful and demanding day of my professional journey.

Although I haven’t quite labeled the genre yet, one thing remains certain – my commitment to my audience and truthful storytelling will always be paramount, much like it is now.

Titled “Agra Affair,” this series, masterfully directed by Mandar Kurundar, revolves around the character Aakash, played by Aakash Dahiya. He’s trying to preserve his family’s hotel business while nurturing his dream of launching a restaurant. Alongside him in this journey is Tanvi, portrayed by Harshita Gaur, a vibrant tour guide who becomes an integral part of his life. However, the dynamics between them become intricate when Megha arrives on the scene, instigating a romantic entanglement, forming a love triangle. The script for this engaging drama was penned by Sankalp Raj Tripathi, Tatsat Pandey and Abhinav Vaidya. It boasts an exceptionally skilled cast, seamlessly combining elements of love, ambition, and emotional turmoil to create an enthralling storyline.

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2025-01-09 09:52