It's the brutal king with a mighty sword - The TRPs, that's Television Rating Points, is that vital element in the Indian television industry that rules the fate of any and every show that's telecast.

It's become so common to hear about the sad demise of a show that it's not shocking anymore. On a serious note, who are hit the most by this doleful channel decision? The producer and the actors. In case of the actors, they suddenly find themselves stranded, and to hunt for newer roles in the midst of all the cut-throat-competition. And with every channel and producer going in for newer and fresh faces, landing the right role is no cakewalk for them. In fact, many are left in a lurch without any work for months together after a show is abruptly taken off air.

We ask select stars to voice their views on this highly controversial matter.

Daljit Kaur
The TRP system is a channel's weapon. Pulling a show off air has more reasons behind it too but TRPs is used as a convenient excuse. Storyline and creative modifications can bring a turn around. If the right intentions and efforts are there the show will surely grow. On an average a show should be given six months to woo the audience. They take time to be fond of the characters. I can't question the channel intentions. May be they had valid reasons to take my show Kulvaddhu off air. Even today people recognize me as Kulvaddhu. But now what nextis the question mark

Harsh Chaaya
TRPs don't affect the actor, as serials don't run on sheer actors or star presence. If that was the case shows starring Rajesh Khanna, Sridevi, Hema Malini, etc. would have been hits. It is the storyline and script which counts the most. Star value can at the most get the initial audience. If on the whole the project is good it will run and if it isn't, it won't. TV serials are not sold Friday to Friday on star power. Take for example the serial Kulvaddhu, which was promoted well and had a good star cast, yet it didn't work. Certain characters like Tulsi become so popular that to replace it one needs to think umpteen times. In my show Hassaretein the leading lady was replaced at her peak but it didn't make much of a difference to it's popularity. Rather, it worked in the show's favour as the actress who replaced her was better.

Kiran Dubey
As an actress I do what I do. We don't look for any logic. Serials are big business and everything is TRP driven at the end of the day. TRPs and corporate business are inter-connected. The show which gets the maximum ratings attracts the maximum ads. In case of TV shows it is all about drama between many characters and not an individual. There are multiple tracks happening in one show so the responsibility is shared.

Gaurav Chopraa
I try not to get affected by TRPs. I think of acting as a job where one needs to like what one is doing. Creative satisfaction counts and it has nothing to do with TRPs. The other aspect is appreciation; you want to get positive public response for your performance. When I joined Aisa Desh Hain Mera the TRPs improved but it was not just because of my entry but because the right track and storyline were improvised. As an actor I try to keep away from this rating game.

Mazher Sayedd
It's the TRP system that gauges the success of a show and channel nowadays. As an actor I do my job to the best of my ability, I concentrate on my craft. If the serial is well-made it is bound to work. Having said that I will also add that the TV industry is unpredictable. Serials are a big business. Fortunately for me both my current shows Kahanii and Saat Phere are enjoying a good spell and it does contribute in the perception value of the shows as well as actors. Fact is a hit show with healthy TRPs does make a difference to our career.