The industry has taught me to dream big and achieve it: Producer Yash Patnaik

Yash A Patnaik, owner and founder of Beyond Dreams Productions, along with his wife Mamta, has carved a niche for himself in terms of coming up with some path-breaking shows over the years. A versatile man, Yash started off as a journalist, went on to become a director before finally launching his production house. Currently, he is helming two shows in different channels, namely Junoon on Life OK and Veera on Star Plus.

Here in ‘Behind The Lens’ section, Yash unwinds his journey till date with us.

How did your journey in this industry begin?
I started my career as a journalist in the print as well as electronic media in 1995. Later, during my seven-year stint with Fireworks Productions (Mumbai) as a creative director and business head, I headed the production house in making many successful shows including CID, Aahat, Raat Hone Ko Hai and CID Special Bureau. Later on, I also wrote stories and screenplays for many shows. I have written, produced, and directed over fifty documentaries/short films and over 3000 episodes of non-fiction programming.

Continue…
I also worked with Zee Education where I met Mamta after which we feel in love. Later, I worked with prominent production houses and television channels as producer, director, creative director, executive producer and CEO for over a decade. Then in the year 2007, I started my own company Beyond Dreams Entertainment Private Limited with my wife.

How has the journey been so far?
Well, in one word, I will say it has been a roller coaster ride. In fact, the last three to four years were full of ups and down. After a few downs, there were ups and then downs. All-in-all, the journey has taught me a lot. I feel that success and failure are part of one’s life. Everything in life teaches you.

How has the industry changed you?
Honestly, in the beginning I was very shy. Mamta and I together made everything work out. I have learnt to stand up, take criticism head-on and have also learnt to think big and make it happen.

Tell us about the functioning of Beyond Dreams?
(pauses) Well, well. While Mamta alone handles the scripting and creativity, both of us handle the casting along with DOPs, art directors and story writers. It’s our team work, as I said we don’t have many people. Every day is a learning process for us.

Are good looks the only criteria for getting into acting?
I feel looks are the first impression that an actor has to have. But, acting plays a very important role. But, I always take freshers from the industry, as I feel they are raw and can be molded. I am so happy that Mohit Raina who is currently doing Mahadev started with us and Karan Mehra (Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai) is also doing a wonderful job.

TRPs have always been a concern for every producer. What’s your take on it?
Well, TRPs are like snakes and ladders. One day it’s up, the other day it’s down. I always tend to maintain the same equilibrium. I am happy with the way my two shows have been accepted; both are very different. While Veera is more dramatic, Junoon is action packed.

Who is your biggest critic and who appreciates you the most?
Of course it’s Mamta. While she criticizes me, I do the same to her. It’s kind of, we play critic –critic (laughs). Of course, appreciation comes from most of my industry fellow friends who always value our good work.

Where do you see yourself five years down the line?
(chuckles) Producing some more shows and definitely venturing into films.