Experts Debate Content Strategy in Era of Infinite Digital Media

On the sidelines of TechSparks 2026, three executives gathered to address a central dilemma for modern media: how to secure audience attention when content is abundant but human time remains limited. The panel, titled “The Format Is the Product: When Content Becomes Infinite,” featured Avinash Mudaliar of HT Media Labs, Deepit Purkayastha of Inshorts, and GSN Aditya of Eloelo Group.

Balancing Content and Constraints

The speakers agreed that the primary challenge facing creators is not a lack of material, but the finite nature of consumer time. Avinash Mudaliar argued that format, distribution, and personalization are not competing strategies but must function as a cohesive unit. He pointed to his development of the Saregama Carvaan, a device designed for users who wanted to avoid the complexity of digital interfaces and app logins. By limiting user choices and digitizing a radio-like experience, the product provided a specific, accessible format that resonated with its audience.

Deepit Purkayastha, co-founder of Inshorts, noted that user needs shift toward reliability as digital noise increases. He stated that his platform, which launched 12 years ago, prioritizes factual information over the provocative nature of social media. Purkayastha described the app as a tool for users seeking to stay informed without the clutter often found on other digital platforms.

Adapting to Changing Consumer Tastes

For the Eloelo Group, success has relied on the micro-drama format, which allows for faster storytelling and broader reach. GSN Aditya stated that while content is infinite, the top 5% of material captures the majority of audience attention. He emphasized the need for platforms to reinvent story arcs and utilize data science to personalize content delivery, ensuring users consistently engage with relevant material.