Filmmaker‑choreographer Farah Khan tells SCREEN that hosting Netflix India's reality show “Lock Upp: Sach Ya Sazaa” demands more nuance than a few episodes of Bigg Boss. She highlights the sensitivity around contestants' secrets, celebrity interactions, and the show's redemption narrative.
Filmmaker, choreographer and now popular YouTube vlogger Farah Khan sat down with SCREEN to discuss why anchoring Netflix India’s new reality series Lock Upp: Sach Ya Sazaa feels more intricate than hosting a handful of episodes of Bigg Boss. After launching her YouTube channel in 2024, Farah quickly built a digital following and now juggles two demanding roles – vlogging and anchoring a high‑stakes OTT show.
What Makes Lock Upp Different?
According to Farah, Lock Upp is “a little more complex because there are very sensitive secrets the contestants choose to reveal.” While Bigg Boss thrives on conflict and drama, Lock Upp is built around redemption, turning villains into heroes within a single week. This shift forces the host to balance participants’ emotions with audience expectations, demanding a far greater degree of empathy.
Co‑hosting with Riteish Deshmukh
Farah praised her chemistry with co‑host Riteish Deshmukh, noting that “there is no ego involved, so we are enjoying the company.” Their long‑standing relationship, dating back to collaborations on her brother’s films, translates into a seamless on‑screen partnership. After each shoot they call each other to debrief, ensuring both are fully briefed on the day’s developments.
Balancing Vlogging and Reality TV
She shoots for Lock Upp three times a week and keeps a bank of YouTube episodes ready in advance. “Vlogging is the least stressful. Making a film is the most stressful and time‑consuming, often consuming a year or two of one’s life,” she said, emphasizing the distinct workload each medium demands.
How Vlogging Changed Cook Dilip’s Life
Farah’s cooking vlogs turned her kitchen assistant Dilip into a social media star. A recent brand event in Bangalore saw Dilip dancing with fans and earning his own fanbase, a transformation Farah attributes to her commitment to “always take your people forward with you.” The story underscores how creator‑driven content can generate real‑world opportunities for behind‑the‑scenes talent.
When asked about future film projects, Farah said she wants to direct “in good time,” but for now she is focused on Lock Upp and the upcoming “trolling” campaigns by fan armies after the weekend. Her candid reflections reveal a media professional navigating multiple platforms while staying true to her creative instincts.
