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Helly Shah talks about playing dual role in Sufiyana Pyaar Mera

Helly Shah is not new to playing challenging characters on television. She began her acting career with a supporting role in Star Plus’ Gulaal and has starred in several popular shows in the past, including Khelti Hai Zindagi Aankh Micholi and Swaragini. The huge success of Rashmi Sharma Telefilms’ Swaragini made her a household name.

Helly is currently seen in DP Studios’ Sufiyana Pyaar Mera, which airs on Star Bharat. The show hit the airwaves on 16th April, 2019, and has registered good numbers on the TRP charts. Sufiyana Pyaar Mera features the talented actress in yet another challenging part. She plays a dual role in the series.


Talking about Sufiyana Pyaar Mera, Helly Shah says that despite being demanding, she has no issue playing a double role. “I have no issues playing a double role, as such opportunities are rare. Yes, it’s demanding, as I have to shoot every scene twice for both my characters. It consumes a lot of time and I guess that took a toll on my health, but I am better now. I went on a break because it was necessary to recharge my batteries before taking on the challenge,” she says.

She goes on to reveal how she ensures that both the characters look and sound different. “I have adapted two voices for the roles so that I not only look but also sound different. There are times when I forget to change my voice! So, I have to be very cautious,” the actress informs.

Upon being asked if she is open to playing negative characters on television, she says, “I would like to stick to positive characters unless the antagonist is different from what I am playing currently. I don’t want to play similar characters.”

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How Southeast Asian storytelling became one of Netflix’s fastest-growing global pillars

Inside Netflix’s 50% surge: the regional creators and stories driving Southeast Asia’s global rise

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How Southeast Asian storytelling became one of Netflix’s fastest-growing global pillars

Highlights:

  • Netflix says global viewing of Southeast Asian titles rose almost 50% between 2023 and 2024.
  • Premium VOD revenue in the region reached £1.44 billion (₹15,300 crore) last year, with 53.6 million subscriptions.
  • Netflix holds more than half of the region’s total viewing and remains its biggest investor in originals.
  • New rivals, including Max, Viu and Vidio, are forcing sharper competition.
  • Local jobs, training and tourism are increasing as productions expand across the region.

Last year, something shifted in what the world watched. Global viewership of Southeast Asian content on Netflix grew by nearly 50%, and this isn't just a corporate milestone; it’s a signal. Stories from Jakarta, Bangkok, and Manila are no longer regional curiosities. They are now part of the global mainstream.

The numbers tell a clear story. Over 100 Southeast Asian titles have now entered Netflix’s Global Top 10 lists. More than 40 of those broke through in 2024 alone. This surge is part of a bigger boom in the region’s own backyard. The total premium video-on-demand market in Southeast Asia saw viewership hit 440 billion minutes in 2024, with revenues up 14% to £1.44 billion (₹15,300 crore). Netflix commands over half of that viewership and 42% of the revenue. They have a clear lead, but the entire market is rising.

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