SonyLIV’s performance in March 2026 was nothing short of a disappointment. The streamer bet heavily on its original, Jazz City, but didn’t find major success with it, especially in terms of viewer and critical reception. On the other hand, the licensed title Laalo – Krishna Sada Sahaayte, a Gujarati blockbuster, received an outstanding response from viewers.
Jazz City (created and helmed by Soumik Sen) was fuelled by a good marketing campaign and noticeable digital chatter. However, once the show actually dropped, sentiment shifted quickly. Despite the initial noise, the series was widely seen as a disappointment. Critics and viewers alike felt it lacked the narrative depth to match its high production value.
Reviews from major outlets and people highlighted the show’s sluggish pacing and unfocused subplots, noting that the 10-episode series lacked the atmospheric soul promised by its title. Ultimately, the protagonist’s arc felt unconvincing and the staging amateurish, and the digital hype couldn’t compensate for a fundamental lack of narrative depth and authenticity.
In contrast, the real winner for SonyLIV in March wasn’t an original at all, but the licensed title Laalo – Krishna Sada Sahaayte. Following its massive success at the theatrical box office (grossing over INR 120 crores), the film made its digital debut to an overwhelmingly positive reception.
Viewers have lauded its heartfelt execution and gripping storytelling, which avoids typical cinematic gimmicks. This devotional drama resonated deeply with audiences through its natural performances, particularly by Karan Joshi, and its seamless blend of survival drama with spiritual awakening.
SonyLIV’s heavy reliance on Jazz City and the lack of big releases in the last couple of months (including March 2026) is a massive step back for the streamer in the OTT market.
Ultimately, March served as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the streaming business. While SonyLIV clearly bet big on its original IP to drive new subscriptions, it was the proven reliability of a theatrical hit that kept the platform relevant.
It’s clear that SonyLIV needs some new and gripping originals to get back in the game. Stay tuned for more updates.