Mini Mathur: Discovered strengths, potential within me that I never knew existed
Mumbai, Aug 8
Actress-host Mini Mathur, who took home the trophy after winning the reality show "Alliance", said the reality show helped her discover a side she had never known before.
"Absolutely. As a host or presenter, your job is to tell someone else's story and connect the audience with it. Here, I was content. I became the subject of entertainment. I never imagined that I could live with so many people under constant camera surveillance and still inspire viewers. This became a competition with myself. I discovered strengths and potential within me that I never knew existed."
In reality shows, there is often a debate about the difference between smart gameplay and dirty gameplay.
Asked Mini where should that line be drawn, she told IANS: "A certain amount of manipulation is part of strategy. If you want someone to underplay their game because it benefits your own strategy or improves your position on the tracker board, that is perfectly acceptable. It is part of the game."
"However, personal attacks, insulting someone's gender, or shouting simply to create toxicity are things I do not believe in. There is a very fine line between playing strategically to survive and trying to pull someone down just to move ahead yourself.
Personally, she does not think the second approach is necessary.
"Hopefully, my victory sends a message to other reality shows that you do not have to be down and dirty to win. You can be straightforward, sharp, strategic, and even manipulative within the rules of the game."
"Alliance", hosted by Kunal Kemmu, had 16 contestants enter as allies, but shifting loyalties, deception, and strategic gameplay tested every alliance in the race for the ultimate prize.
"Alliance" started streaming from June 26. The show is the first international adaptation of Talpa Studios' globally acclaimed Dutch format, created by John de Mol. Banijay Asia produces the Hindi-language show.
The show is streaming on Prime Video.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Absolutely agree with her point about the line between strategy and toxicity. In shows like Bigg Boss, contestants think shouting and fighting equals entertainment. Mini's approach shows maturity. Yes, manipulate strategically if needed, but never degrade someone's dignity. Well said!
It's so inspiring to see someone in their 40s take on a challenge like this and win! Mini has always been graceful, whether as VJ or host. This shows age is just a number. Her journey proves that self-discovery can happen at any stage of life. 🌟
Respect for Mini ma'am. Most Indian reality show winners rely on drama and controversies, but she won with her intelligence. I hope other shows take note - clean gameplay can also make compelling television. Her statement about manipulation being part of strategy is absolutely spot on. 👍
I've watched the American version of this format and it's interesting to see the Indian adaptation. Mini's perspective on strategy versus toxicity is universal though. In any competitive environment, there's a fine line between playing smart and playing dirty. She navigated it perfectly. Great interview!
Full marks to Mini for her balanced take on this. In today's TRP-driven world, everyone wants drama. But she's right - you can be strategic without being disrespectful. I read somewhere that her win was quite decisive too. Shows that talent and brains always win in the end. Well deserved! 🏆
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