The Alliance vs Lock Upp: Banijay CEO on why the two shows are not comparable | Exclusive

Banijay CEO explains why The Alliance and Lock Upp are different

As anticipation builds around the launch of The Alliance, Banijay Asia CEO Deepak Dhar has addressed comparisons between the new reality series and Lock Upp, asserting that the two shows belong to entirely different formats.

Speaking exclusively, Dhar said that while both programmes may feature celebrity contestants, the similarities end there.

"People may compare them because they are reality shows, but The Alliance and Lock Upp are not comparable. Their formats, objectives and audience experience are completely different," he said.

Focus on strategy over controversy

According to Dhar, The Alliance is centred on strategy, teamwork, trust and psychological gameplay, where contestants must build alliances and make calculated decisions to survive the competition.

Unlike shows that rely heavily on personal revelations or controversies, he said the new series is designed to test contestants' social intelligence, adaptability and decision-making under pressure.

"The drama emerges from the game itself rather than external controversies," he explained.

A fresh reality show format

Banijay believes The Alliance will offer viewers a different kind of reality television experience by combining competition with evolving interpersonal dynamics.

Contestants will reportedly be required to negotiate, collaborate and occasionally betray alliances as the game progresses, creating unpredictable twists throughout the season.

The makers are positioning the show as a format where every decision can alter the course of the competition.

Growing competition in India's reality TV space

India's reality television market has become increasingly competitive, with platforms investing in diverse formats ranging from talent competitions to survival-based social experiments.

With The Alliance, Banijay aims to expand its portfolio by introducing a format that emphasises gameplay and strategic thinking rather than sensationalism.

Industry observers believe the success of the show will depend on whether audiences embrace its distinctive approach to reality entertainment.

Awaiting the premiere

While Banijay has begun promoting The Alliance, the makers are yet to reveal all the contestants and gameplay details.

For now, Dhar is confident that once the show premieres, viewers will recognise why it stands apart from existing reality programmes, including Lock Upp.