Chandan Roy Sanyal on ‘Aashram’ backlash: ‘If the show had only received criticism, it wouldn’t have lasted five years’

Chandan Roy Sanyal has addressed the ongoing criticism and controversy surrounding 'Aashram,' the Bobby Deol-led web series. The show, which portrays the dark side of religious figures, has faced backlash since its release, with some accusing it of misrepresenting faith and religious institutions. However, Sanyal remains unfazed, highlighting the overwhelming support it has received from viewers.
In a recent interview with IANS, Sanyal dismissed the negativity, pointing out that a vast majority of social media users, around 98 percent have praised the series, while only a small fraction have expressed discontent. He stated that if the show had been met with only criticism, it would not have survived for five years, let alone gained such a loyal fan base.
Sanyal, who plays Bhopa Swami, a key figure in the series, also spoke about the developments in 'Aashram Season 3'. His character is set to challenge Baba Nirala, the manipulative and powerful spiritual leader played by Bobby Deol. He acknowledged the significance of Deol’s portrayal, emphasizing how central the character is to the show’s appeal.
He revealed that the writers had developed his character in a way that could potentially see him take over as the new Baba. However, he admitted that the ultimate acceptance of this shift depends entirely on the audience. The introduction of two Babas in the storyline has added an intriguing twist, but the future of his character remains uncertain as it will depend on how the writers choose to develop it further.
Expressing his excitement, Sanyal said he is eager to see how audiences react to the new season and what direction the streaming platforms will take with the show’s future.
'Aashram', known for its gripping narrative, revolves around Baba Nirala, a self-proclaimed godman who exploits his followers, particularly young women residing in his ashram. The show has consistently sparked debates about the intersection of faith and power.
The previous season premiered in 2022, and the second part of 'Aashram Season 3' was released on February 26.