Indian entertainment is once again shining on the global stage, as the Hindi adaptation of The Night Manager has been nominated for the prestigious International Emmy Awards 2024 in the Best Drama Series category. Directed by Sandeep Modi, this marks India’s sole entry in this year’s competition, highlighting the growing influence of Indian content on the global scene.
Adapted from John le Carré’s acclaimed novel, The Night Manager stars Aditya Roy Kapur, Anil Kapoor, Sobhita Dhulipala, Tillotama Shome, Saswata Chatterjee, and Ravi Behl. The show, which premiered on Disney+ Hotstar, has captivated audiences with its gripping storyline, stellar performances, and high production value.
A Momentous Milestone for Indian Content
The International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences announced the nominations, with Academy President Bruce L. Paisner praising the global impact of the nominated series. He emphasized how the shows transcend cultural boundaries and connect with audiences worldwide through exceptional storytelling.
In a celebratory addition for India, comedian and actor Vir Das will be hosting the 2024 International Emmys, adding another feather to his cap following his own Emmy nominations and wins for his Netflix specials. Vir expressed his excitement and gratitude for the opportunity, marking a historic moment for Indian representation at the event.
A Thrilling Tale of Espionage and Intrigue
Produced by The Ink Factory and Banijay Asia, The Night Manager tells the story of Shaan Sengupta, a former soldier-turned-night-manager at a luxury hotel, played by Aditya Roy Kapur. His life takes a sharp turn when he is recruited by a government intelligence agency to infiltrate the inner circle of a powerful international arms dealer, Shailendra Rungta, portrayed by Anil Kapoor. What follows is a dangerous and suspenseful game of espionage, fraught with life-threatening twists and turns.
Speaking about the show’s nomination, Sushanta Bose, Business Head HSM and Content Head at Disney+ Hotstar, expressed immense pride. “This nomination solidifies The Night Manager as a global phenomenon. It’s a testament to the outstanding craftsmanship and dedication of our team, cast, and crew. We are committed to bringing world-class storytelling to audiences,” Bose said.
Simon Cornwell, CEO and founder of The Ink Factory, echoed this sentiment, stating, “We are always excited to tell new stories and offer fresh perspectives. The nomination is a great honor, validating the global resonance of Indian content.”
The Challenge of Adaptation
Bringing The Night Manager to life in an Indian context posed significant challenges for the creative team. Deepak Dhar, Founder & CEO of Banijay Asia, described it as “one of the biggest challenges and honors.” He praised the star-studded cast, led by Anil Kapoor and Aditya Roy Kapur, for bringing intensity to the narrative, along with the flawless execution of Sandeep Modi, co-director Priyanka Ghose, and the entire technical team.
Director and Showrunner Sandeep Modi spoke about the meticulous efforts that went into making the Indian adaptation resonate with local audiences while retaining its international appeal. “Each character was crafted to connect with Indian audiences while staying true to the original’s essence. This nomination is a validation of our team’s hard work,” he said.
Celebrating the Cast and Crew
Veteran actor Anil Kapoor, who portrays the ruthless arms dealer Shailendra Rungta, expressed his joy and humility at the show’s nomination. “Even after all these years in the industry, being nominated for an Emmy feels surreal. This project was a labor of love for all of us,” Kapoor remarked, adding that the nomination is a testament to the passion and dedication of everyone involved.
Aditya Roy Kapur, who takes on the role of Shaan Sengupta, reflected on the honor of receiving an Emmy nomination for his first series. “From day one, we knew we were creating something special. But to receive so much love and recognition across the world is beyond anything we had imagined,” he said.
Sobhita Dhulipala, who plays Kaveri in the series, shared her excitement, calling the nomination a “fantastic achievement” and praising the directors and technical crew for their hard work. “This is very motivating and moving for all of us,” she added.
A Global Recognition of Indian Talent
With its Emmy nomination, The Night Manager is poised to further elevate Indian content on the international stage. The series has not only won over Indian audiences but also resonated globally, showcasing the immense potential of Indian storytelling in the world of drama and entertainment.
As Indian content continues to gain recognition worldwide, the success of The Night Manager reinforces the country’s growing influence in the international television landscape. The show’s nomination is a moment of pride, not just for the cast and crew, but for the entire Indian entertainment industry.