Haider Abbas Naqvi is a distinguished theater professional and creative visionary with over two decades of extensive experience in the entertainment industry. As a Creative Director, Writer, and Show Runner, he has mastered various mediums, including television, web, film, and sports content. His proficiency spans writing, script editing, and ideation, showcasing his versatility in storytelling.
Naqvi’s career highlights include significant contributions to prominent entertainment mediums such as television networks and production companies, where he has excelled as a writer, director, creative producer, and executive producer. His talent for crafting compelling narratives is evident in acclaimed projects such as “India’s Most Wanted,” “F.I.R.,” “Savdhaan India,” “Poster,” “Mohammed ki Gaay,” “Hazaar Chaurasi ki Maa,” and “Yahan Peshab Karna Mana Hai.”
As a Creative Director, Naqvi has spearheaded projects at leading organizations like Star Bharat, Rhiti Group, Times Group, and Sony. Notably, at Star Bharat, he directed the popular crime show “Savdhaan India,” managing story selection, screenplay development, and post-production processes.
Naqvi’s strategic vision and innovative approaches have distinguished him in the television and entertainment industry. At Rhiti Group, he developed content for OTT platforms and the Metaverse, including the MS Dhoni biopic. His leadership and creativity earned him the Gold Medal at the Enba 2021–2022 competition for his work on Times Group Networks’ Prime Show.
Continuing to push the boundaries of creative storytelling, Haider Abbas Naqvi leverages his extensive experience to produce impactful content that resonates with diverse audiences in the television and entertainment industry.
In an exclusive exchange with The Interview World, Naqvi delves into how theatrical productions harness technology and multimedia elements. He explores how theater addresses contemporary social and political issues, shares his experience with immersive and interactive theater, and discusses the unique challenges and opportunities these formats present for both performers and audiences in the television and entertainment industry. Here are the key takeaways from his insightful discussion.
Q: How do you leverage technology and multimedia elements in your theatrical productions to enrich storytelling and elevate audience engagement?
A: In my theatrical endeavors across India, my mission is to revolutionize storytelling by infusing it with unparalleled entertainment and interactivity. This approach has proven transformative in numerous productions, including those commissioned by the Ministry of Agriculture. By seamlessly integrating cutting-edge technology and multimedia—like projection mapping and digital backdrops—we’ve also elevated our narratives to new heights, captivating audiences on a profound level. These advancements have not only intensified the visual allure but have also crafted a richly immersive experience, breathing dynamic life into our stories.
Q: How does your work in theater engage with and address contemporary social and political issues?
A: In my theater work, I dive headfirst into today’s social and political maelstrom, selecting plays and themes that resonate with our current landscape. Take, for example, the upcoming state elections in Jammu & Kashmir, Haryana, Jharkhand, and Maharashtra—I’ve crafted a provocative street play that does more than entertain. It educates.
This play is a dynamic tool designed to captivate and enlighten first-time voters and young citizens about the gravity of their role in the democratic arena. By spotlighting the critical impact of every single vote and weaving in historical insights, we underscore how individual choices fuel societal transformation. The play also confronts pressing contemporary issues such as voter apathy, the corrosive effects of misinformation, and the extraordinary power of collective action.
Our interactive and electrifying performances challenge young voters to examine their democratic responsibilities with fresh eyes. Through a blend of humor, drama, and relatable characters, we ensure that the experience is both engaging and unforgettable. We aim to instill a profound sense of duty and empowerment, igniting a wave of informed and enthusiastic civic participation.
By merging education with entertainment, we deliver a learning experience that’s not just enjoyable but deeply impactful. Taking theater to the streets allows us to reach a broad audience and spark essential conversations about pivotal social and political matters. Our ultimate goal is to strengthen the democratic fabric of society by driving greater involvement in the electoral process.
Q: How have digital platforms and streaming services impacted your creative and production strategies for theater content?
A: The surge in digital platforms and streaming services has reshaped how I approach theater creation and production. In response, we’re launching Audio Publications—a groundbreaking app designed for both emerging and established writers to share their stories. These stories will be brought to life by prominent celebrities, and if they resonate well, we’ll consider adapting them into plays or web series. This initiative will not only amplify our audience reach but also elevate new voices, enriching the theater scene with a spectrum of fresh and innovative content.
Q: Can you share your experience with immersive or interactive theater and the unique challenges and opportunities they present for both performers and the audience?
A: My journey with immersive and interactive theater has been both a formidable challenge and a gratifying triumph. These productions function like spontaneous debates, with audience reactions steering the course of the play. Take “Arjun and His 5 Elements,” for example—audience members become part of the narrative, actively solving the case and ensuring every performance is a one-of-a-kind experience. This approach demands not just meticulous planning but also a nimble, flexible mindset. The result? An intensely engaging experience that shatters the conventional theater mold and forges a deep, authentic connection with the audience.
Q: How do you ensure that inclusivity and diversity are prioritized in your casting choices and storytelling methods?
A: Inclusivity and diversity aren’t just goals—they are the heartbeat of my work. Daily life immerses us in a rich tapestry of backgrounds and characteristics, and my productions mirror this reality with precision. I meticulously select casts that embody a spectrum of experiences, infusing the narrative with authenticity and depth. This deliberate choice not only elevates the story but also ensures it resonates powerfully with a diverse audience. Embracing inclusivity in storytelling creates a richer, more relatable experience for everyone involved.
Q: What role do you believe theater plays in today’s cultural landscape, and how do you envision its evolution in the future?
A: Theater commands a central role in our cultural landscape, shaping live storytelling and communal experiences with unmatched vitality. It amplifies voices and narratives that often slip through the cracks of mainstream media. As technology weaves into its fabric and digital access expands, theater is reinventing itself, becoming more inclusive and globally accessible. This transformation is not just a trend; it’s a revolution, ensuring theater remains an indispensable force for reflection, dialogue, and vibrant cultural expression.
Q: Can you share an example of how your insightful approach to content creation significantly contributed to the success of a television or film project?
A: A prime example of my impact is evident in my work on episodic stories for high-profile crime shows like Savdhaan India on Star Bharat and Crime Patrol on Sony TV. Here, the challenge was not just to preserve the originality of each story but to do so while concealing victims’ identities. My role in crafting scripts and developing character arcs was pivotal, ensuring sensitive topics were portrayed with both authenticity and resonance. This meticulous focus on detail and compelling storytelling propelled the series to critical acclaim and widespread success. My experience underscores the critical importance of rigorous research and deep empathy in content creation, consistently driving remarkable results across diverse projects.
Q: How do you cultivate a supportive and collaborative environment during script workshops and readings?
A: To ignite a thriving, collaborative spirit during script workshops and readings, I drive open communication, deliver incisive feedback, and craft a sanctuary for bold experimentation. I champion mutual respect and ensure every voice commands attention. This approach not only sharpens the quality of our work but forges a unified, high-impact team. With my latest venture, the Audio Publications platform, I’m building a vibrant creative hub where writers unleash their creativity and collaborate with fellow artists. This initiative amplifies a dynamic, supportive creative ecosystem.
