L E T T E R S    T O    T H E    E D I T O R

TV shows out of sync with reality

The tone and tenor of articles “Needed, a reality check” and ‘Time to get real at last” (Nov 22) by Sonal Jhujj and Aruti Nayar essentially go in favour of different reality shows being telecast on our TV channels. Their core argument that if viewers don’t like a certain programme, they can switch off their TV sets, is deceptively neutral. In fact, the Indian TV programmes are cut off from the ground realities of India. They are propagating the decadent life values of the emerging nouveau rich and upper middle class sections.

The much-talked about reality show “Big Boss” is the classic example of the weird, consumerist and narcissistic mindset of this urban class speaking Hinglish and aping Western culture and mannerism. This so-called TV reality show may suit the needs of the market economy but it is going to encourage mindless libertines in the streets of our small towns and villages. If we take a close look at most of our TV serials, they don’t show an iota of reality of Indian villages. Every leading protagonist in such serials has a shining car, lives in style and can break social norms at the drop of hat without any fear of society. The advice to the common viewers that they should accept the compulsions of the market economy and learn to live with such vulgar TV programmes prohibitively dissuades them even from making democratic complaints and protests.

Dr RAJ BAHADUR YADAV, Fatehabad

II

I would say that there is a mixed response to the check on reality shows even if the remote is in the hand of viewers (article, “Needed, a reality check” by Sonal Jhujj, Nov 22). The use of foul language is not at all permissible. Rakhi Sawant should learn a lesson from Lakshman’s suicide.

A prominent writer Sadat Hasan Manto whose “Afsanas” were being challenged in the court of law pleaded that he writes whatever he sees in society. Similarly, I agree that the channels alone are not to be blamed. If viewers stop watching, such shows will stop selling. The electronic media should not only be concerned with its TRPs but should ensure that their shows do not invite any controversy.

HARISH K MONGA, Pune

III

The editorial “Primetime tamasha” (Nov 19) rightly pointed out that television channels must self regulate and avoid airing content that caters to baser instincts of audiences. Television is one of the main sources of entertainment and what is shown on it affects the viewers directly or indirectly to a great extent. As the environment of the child shapes his thoughts and habits in the same way television also affects the general public.

Television shows that depict vulgarity and obscenity must be banned. Shows like “Big Boss”, “Rakhi Ka Insaaf” and “Aahat” are in bad taste.

Only right kind of shows must be shown from which the viewers can get information, knowledge and inspiration. Parents must encourage their children to watch channels like the National Geographic or Discovery.

Even newspapers and magazines must make sure that they cover informative news rather than futile updates of Bollywood film stars.

RAMESHINDER SINGH SANDHU, Khasa, Amritsar

Savour life The middle, “A fly on the wall” (Nov 20) by Rachna Singh deliberates the human quest for knowing the unknown. All our life we put in efforts and wait for results. Sometimes, we are eager to know the results beforehand. This may be due to the anticipation of a happy outcome of some interview, etc, or the fear of testing positive for some disease. Life is a big challenge especially when we face difficult times. On a normal day we don’t seem to notice the period between sunrise and sunset. On the other hand, in case we fall ill, and have to undergo hospitalisation or some tests, the clock just seems to stand still. The tick-tick of the alarm clock seems to alarm us. Now I feel that the time we get to spend is the best thing life can give us. Experience teaches us that we should stop wasting time in mundane activities and try to enjoy every moment.  BHUSHAN CHANDER JINDAL, Jalandhar

Maoist threat

Nepal’s Maoists are baselessly accusing India of interference in the internal affairs of Nepal. In fact, it is Nepal’s Maoists who are responsible for the present chaotic state of affairs in Nepal. They are not sincere about the implementation of the peace accord reached between all the parties.

They are giving training to the Indian Maoists and are thus creating instability in the region as pointed rightly in the editorial “Nepal’s Maoist problem” (Nov 20). They want to establish dictatorship in Nepal. With Tibet under Chinese occupation, India must be on her guard with regard to her security.

AMAR JIT SINGH GORAYA, Griffith, NSW, Australia