The Effects of Indian TV Serials on Indian Society
Indian television has a profound and multifaceted impact on the society, shaping cultural norms, grooming mass attitudes, and even influencing economic behavior. The content that dominates Indian small screens often reflects the nation's aspirations, anxieties, and underlying socio-economic dynamics. However, the influence of these serials extends far beyond mere entertainment, delving into the emotional and intellectual realms of the audience. This article explores both the positive and negative effects of Indian TV serials on Indian society.
Positive Impact
Indian TV has long been a vessel for social awareness and moral preaching. Shows like Ramananda Sagar’s Dharm Ayers projected positive values, fostering a sense of duty and righteousness. Such series not only entertained but also educated viewers on moral and ethical principles, thereby contributing to a more educated and informed society. Additionally, these serials often encourage career aspirations and progressive thinking, inspiring young viewers to pursue education and professional excellence.
Negative Impact
On the flip side, the influence of Indian TV serials can be palpably negative. Shallow storylines often propagate unrealistic expectations, leading to consumerism and materialism. Serials that prioritize glamour and superficial appearances have taught many that happiness is synonymous with possession and wealth. For instance, women characters in sarees with low waistlines and padded bosoms and men with muscled builds wearing expensive ethnic costumes have set unrealistic standards of beauty and success.
A Targeted Influence on Specific Groups
Indian TV serials have a significant sway over various demographic groups, influencing their perceptions and behaviors.
Unemployed Young
Young viewers who are often jobless or searching for employment are shown romanticized versions of success and happiness. Serials depict lavish lifestyles, prompting these viewers to emulate such lifestyles even if they are unaffordable. This can lead to a sense of despair and dissatisfaction when their reality does not align with these fictional portrayals.
UPSC Aspirants
Similar to the unemployed, aspirants for the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) are exposed to idealized versions of success. Instead of focusing on study and hard work, these viewers may be misled into pursuing superficial achievements. The influence of these serials can sap their motivation to put in the necessary effort for their desired careers.
Dowry-Strressed Parents
Serials that propagate negative cultural values, like dowry, can emotionally strain parents who are already worried about their daughters’ marriage. These shows often present dowries as an essential aspect of marriage, perpetuating a problematic tradition that can cause financial stress and emotional distress.
Politicians Selling Nations
Politicians who partake in television serials propagate unhelpful narratives that do not serve the nation’s best interests. These portrayals can shift public opinion and distract from pressing socio-political issues. The glorification of superficial success and ignored governance can lead to a disengaged electorate.
Societal Vulnerability
Indian TV serials often exploit the vulnerabilities of the masses, particularly women, by depicting hyper sexualized scenes and impossibly perfect characters. While the intention may be to attract viewers, the long-term impact is often distortion and dissatisfaction. Women targeted with shallow and unrealistic representations may suffer from body image issues and low self-esteem, while men may be pressured to conform to machismo stereotypes.
Conclusion
Indian TV serials, at their best, have the potential to enrich society with positive values and aspirations. However, when they succumb to shallow storylines and unrealistic expectations, they can create a distorted image of reality, leading to dissatisfaction and materialism. As content creators, it is crucial to balance entertainment with social responsibility, ensuring that Indian TV fosters a more educated, informed, and equitable society.