Reality TV in India has mostly followed a familiar pattern — fights, tears, drama, and long episodes filled with shouting matches. But now, Karan Johar’s latest reality show ‘The Traitors’ on Amazon Prime Video offers a completely different kind of game. This show focuses more on the mind, strategy, and quiet deception rather than loud entertainment.
A Desi Twist to an International Format
‘The Traitors’ is the Indian version of a global reality hit. In this format, a few contestants are secretly selected as “traitors”, while the rest are “faithful” players. The traitors have to remove the faithful players from the game without getting caught. On the other hand, the faithful contestants must identify the traitors before it’s too late.
Each episode includes discussions, secret decisions, and suspense-filled eliminations. The twist? The traitors vote secretly each night to eliminate one player, while during the day, all contestants try to vote out someone they suspect of being a traitor.
This structure makes the game more like a mystery novel or a chess match than a regular shouting contest. And that’s what makes it stand out.
Show Picks Up After a Slow Start
The first episode feels slightly slow as the rules and format are introduced. But from the second episode onwards, things get more exciting. Contestants begin to doubt each other, strategies become sharp, and viewers get hooked as eliminations become unpredictable.
Once the first round of “murders” and “banishments” begin, the game picks up great momentum. The tension between being innocent and being suspected adds real suspense.
Karan Johar’s Hosting Adds Charm
Karan Johar brings his usual style and class to the show. He plays the role of host with authority but keeps it light and engaging. His dramatic delivery during eliminations and his conversations with contestants make the show more polished. He doesn’t overpower the game but supports it well, which is refreshing.
Unlike shows where the host becomes the centre of attention, here the contestants and their gameplay remain the focus.
High Production Value Makes It Visually Stunning
One of the strongest parts of ‘The Traitors’ is its visual presentation. The set design, background score, camera work, and lighting give it a world-class look. It doesn’t feel like a copied format but something that has been carefully adapted to Indian taste.
Viewers are transported into a game setting that feels like a mystery mansion. It’s a great experience to watch, especially for those used to seeing Indian shows with basic sets.
How This Show Is Different from ‘Bigg Boss’
Most Indian viewers are used to ‘Bigg Boss’ style content — shouting matches, emotional drama, and obvious plotting. But ‘The Traitors’ removes all that noise. Here, the drama is in the mind — the real fun comes from watching people lie, guess, doubt, and play tricks.
This shift from loud arguments to smart moves gives the show a fresh appeal. It may not work for every viewer, especially those who want fast entertainment, but for people who like brain games, this show is a treat.
Not Just for the Sake of Drama
In many Indian reality shows, the drama feels forced. But in ‘The Traitors’, the drama comes naturally from the format. People have to lie, build trust, and break bonds. Since nobody knows who the traitors are, each interaction is full of tension.
There is no need for fights or emotional breakdowns to make it exciting. The show builds suspense quietly, which is rare in Indian TV.
A Few Weak Points That Need Mentioning
While the show has many positives, it has a few drawbacks too. The first episode may feel confusing to some people unfamiliar with this type of game. Also, a few moments of overacting or forced emotion creep in as contestants try to play up their reactions for the camera.
For viewers who have seen the original international versions, the Indian version may feel slower or less intense. But for most Indian viewers who are seeing this format for the first time, these things won’t matter much.
Should You Watch It?
If you like reality shows that offer something new, smart, and exciting, you should give ‘The Traitors’ a try. Skip the slow first 20 minutes and dive straight into the mystery. It’s the kind of show that builds tension episode by episode. And with Karan Johar’s smooth hosting, the ride becomes even better.
The first few episodes are now streaming on Amazon Prime Video and more are releasing every week. If you enjoy watching games of strategy and deception, this might become your next favourite binge-watch.
