TABLE OF CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY! 4

INTRODUCTION! 5

Project Objective 5

Need For The Study 6

WHAT IS A REALITY SHOW?! 7

REALITY SHOWS: REASONS FOR POPULARITY! 9

THE ORIGIN OF REALITY SHOWS IN INDIA! 13

TYPES OF REALITY SHOWS! 14

THE MECHANISM OF REALITY SHOWS! 17

TOP 5 INDIAN REALITY SHOWS OF 2010! 18

Details 18

Graphical Representation 19

THE REALITY BEHIND REALITY SHOWS- AN OVERVIEW! 20

NEED FOR REGULATIONS AND TRANSPARENCY! 21

THE FICTION BEHIND REALITY TELEVISION! 23

EFFECTS OF REALITY TELEVISION! 24

On Viewers 24

On Participants 25

THE REALITY BEHIND REALITY SHOWS! 26

Only a few lucky get a foothold in showbiz...others just vanish away 26

Tremendous exploitation 30

Playing by the script 331

Reality Overkill on Indian Television 35

Reality Shows in context of ‘Rahul Dulhaniya Le Jaayenge’ 40

Far from being real? 42

Keep Children out of reality TV 46

MTV Roadies scripted 48

Love, Sex Aur Dhoka- No longer a taboo 51

EMOTIONAL ATYACHAAR: A CASE ANALYSIS! 53

Format of the show 53

Season 1 & Season 2 57

Popularity 58

About the channel 61

Emotional Atyachaar is RIGGED! 62

CONCLUSION! 64

BIBLIOGRAPHY! 65

2

3

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

A critical approach to “REALITY SHOWS: AN EMOTIONAL ATYAACHAAR”

The project gives information

about the latest trend capturing Indian Television i.e Reality Shows. The project provides

an insight into the whats and hows of reality television and a look into the authentic

presentation of these shows.

The project also covers a brief study of various popular reality shows running across the

Indian television scene like Indian Idol, Big Boss etc and the genuineness and critical

acclaim of each show. The project also covers the impact of reality shows in the present

society with respect to children, family values and teenage transitions.

Finally, the project will highlight the most popular youth-oriented reality show-

“Emotional Atyaachar” by UTV Bindaas and the actual reality behind it.

4

INTRODUCTION

Project Objective

The project aims at understanding the various aspects of Reality Television Industry in

India namely:

• The concept of Reality Television

• The major reality shows in India

• The question of genuineness raised on reality shows

• The impact of reality shows on society at large

The project also covers the case analysis of India’s latest reality show- Emotional

Atyaachaar presented by UTV Bindaas which is quite the centre of controversy when it

comes to the authentic projection of so-called ‘reality’.

5

Need For The Study

Reality shows seem to be the new age entertainment recipe. They might be selling

controversies or cashing upon peoples emotion; but at the end of the day, they are the most

poplar shows with the highest TRPs.

Since it involves ‘real’ people and ‘real’ emotions of people there are many controversies surrounding it.

Are reality shows scripted? Are they creating fake drama? All these issues need to be monitored and brought to the general public so that they can distinguish the real from the fake.

Are we in India today actually ready for such physically and psychologically demanding

shows?

Are youngsters not being forced to jump into the race for stardom prematurely?

Is it not time that we actually pause and think of the efficacy and utility of such shows?

The need for this study is thus created to understand the actual nature and usefulness/

utility of reality shows.

6

WHAT IS A REALITY SHOW?

Reality shows are a popular genre of television viewing which shows participants in

situations that test their nerves, intelligence, emotions and sometimes even integrity. These

responses are all caught on camera and are therefore totally natural.

Reality television is a genre of television programming, which presents purportedly

unscripted dramatic or humorous situations, documents actual events and mostly features

ordinary people. Participants are often put in exotic or abnormal situations, coached in

certain ways by off screen handlers. Events that are presented on screen are manipulated

through editing and other postproduction techniques. These programmes not only promise

big money but also overnight stardom.

Reality shows stand apart from other television shows because the responses are

supposedly unscripted and unmaneuvered. Their higher than average TRPs could be

because Reality Shows thrive on naked human emotions, and play to an audience that

thrives on voyeurism and hedonism. In many ways, Reality Shows demonstrate the ugly

reality of what people actually want to do in their spare time.7

Television channels have been quick to recognize the lucrative deal that lies within this

genre and have been fast in their responses. In fact Sony which has pioneered the most

successful reality shows in India as Indian Idol and Jhalak Dikhla Ja, a dance based show,

along with the very popular Big Brother, has endeavored to connect with the audiences

and redeem its position as the topmost television channel via these reality shows.

The word reality is defined as "the quality or state of being actual or true, or a real thing or

fact." TV (television) is self-evident. Combine the two and you get a definition something

like, "actual, true, or real things on the television."

Recently I came across the following "modern-day" definition, that someone no doubt

came up with to justify their couch-potatoeness, as they were defending allegations that

Survivor may not be all that real (imagine that). You won’t find this in any dictionary, but

it read: ". . . relating to or being a genre of television in which a storyline is created from

people interacting or competing with one another in unscripted, unrehearsed situations."

Wrong again.

To be accurate, Reality TV is capturing events that would have existed regardless of

whether the cameras had been there to record them. Events such as war coverage, space

shuttle launches and landings, sports, natural disasters, crimes in progress, and countless

other scenarios of daily life. What most of you know as Reality TV is actually comprised

of highly controlled, and pre-determined, situations that produce social drama that has

been specifically fabricated for the cameras — and the television advertisers.

8

REALITY SHOWS: REASONS FOR POPULARITY

All television channels have one basic aim that of capturing as much of the consumer

market as it can. The kind of sitcoms and soaps, the content of shows, is all factored by

consumer preferences. Creative and marketing heads of a channel usually work alongside

ensuring that the viewer gets what he wants and the channel gets to maximize its profits.

The small screen is gripped with the reality fever. Reality shows are running with full

fervor on and catching the imagination of the Indian nation. Indian reality shows like

Saregama and Indian Idol are now the hot topics at the dinner table, in canteen and in

lunch hours.

Reality shows are breaking the traditional monopoly of the scripted drama shows.

Watching and enjoying reality shows has become India's favorite recreational activity.

Reality shows are essentially a publicity device that cashes in on its celebrity and

wannabe-celebrity participants. These reality shows are based on real-life situations where

the universal aspects of human nature are shown in a very expedient manner.

So what makes Reality Shows so popular? Here are some basic reasons:

• Reality shows are shown at prime time, between 7-9 pm, which is when the maximum

people turn on their television sets.

• Reality television often has aspirants from the interiors of the country. The very sight of

a person from an obscure place, who has little else other than his talent to bank upon, is

enough to fuel the emotions and imaginations of the people.

9

Indian Idol5 contestant Swaroop Khan from the interiors of

Rajasthan knocked the hearts of millions

• Reality shows give the audience a breather from the run-of-the-mill kind of soaps.

• Reality Shows invariably offer an enormous amount of prize money. The prize

sometimes even entails a contract with a music label or a film production company, like

in Dus Ka Dum or the most popular show on Indian television, Kaun Banega Crorepati

based on the popular show ‘Who wants to become a Millionaire’.

Reality Shows invariably offer an enormous amount of prize money

10

• Another reason for the popularity of these shows would be the anchor or the host. The

host of these shows would invariably be a popular film actor or singer, any body with a

star power and popularity base that cut across rural and urban India. By roping in

Amitabh Bacchan and Shah Rukh Khan, Star TV had a winner in their hands even before

they got started with their show.

Putting a star as a host, Producers have a winner even before the show starts

• They provide a public stage for aspirants to show case their talents. As successful

persons from the field of beauty and entertainment often say when they come to these

shows, this kind of a platform was unavailable till some time back.

• Reality shows pose a win-win situation for every one involved; the contestants, the

production houses and the television channel that airs these shows. It is thus not very

surprising that reality shows are occupying the maximum air space these days.

So people watch Reality Shows because they're fun, they don't require one to think and

they're participatory in more ways than one. A viewer invests as much of his time,

emotions and money (through the votes he sends) as that is invested by the participant.

11

Scripted dramas often have less of twists and turns as those that happen on reality shows.

Hence they are viewed by most people who enjoy a legally allowed peep into other

people’s lives, especially those who happen to be celebrities.

12

THE ORIGIN OF REALITY SHOWS IN INDIA

The first reality based show that appeared in India was Indian Idol, by Fremantle India.

Though there were some other reality shows before Indian Idol, but the spell of reality

shows on the the Indian audience began after Indian Idol.

It was a new concept in our country, because the final decision was in the hands of the

viewers i.e the winner was decided on the basis of voting by the viewers. The viewers had

the power to make or break the future of the contestants.

A new concept was launched- decision by viewers

The entire idea of Indian Idol was copied from American Idol and the concept was

successful in marking a new beginning in the Indian television scenario. After the

popularity and success of Indian masses, other channels did not lag behind in launching

these reality shows for their channels. Today, these reality shows are ruling the market.13

TYPES OF REALITY SHOWS

Reality Shows can be classified thus:

• Documentary based shows in which the participant is asked to behave naturally in a

new setting while the audience looks at his responses. An example would be Big Boss

where the participating individuals were tested by keeping them in simulated places

where their day-to-day activities were monitored. In some shows, the participant may

also be given certain professional tasks. Like in Big Boss, where inmates of the house

were also given weekly tasks to perform. Again there are reality based shows that put

celebrities in a situations and see them going through every day life.

Documentary based shows-Big Boss

• Elimination or Game shows where the participants are required to live in a certain

setting together until all the participants are eliminated one by one. So this is a

documentary show but with a game format. An example would be Fame Gurukul The

Switch. Contestants are eliminated through a system of public voting or through

elimination by the contestants themselves.

14

Elimination based shows-Fame Gurukul

• Talent Hunt shows are also very popular and the difference between these shows and

those that are documentary based is the fact the participant does not have to live together.

Elimination rules remain the same. Examples are Dance India Dance.

Talent based shows-Dance India Dance

15

• Other shows are also quite popular which may be Fear-centric and put participants

through a fearful experience. Example, Khatron ke Khiladi. There are also pranks that

are played on unsuspecting persons,like Chupa Rustom.

Fear Centric shows- Khatron Ke Khiladi

There are as many varieties of reality shows as there are scripted stories shown on the

television. Popular in their make up, these reality shows are here to stay and the television

channels, in India or across the globe are waking up to this genre that seems to have all the

trappings within a single format.

16

THE MECHANISM OF REALITY SHOWS

In addition to all the high TRPs why does a channel prefer to air reality shows? The

answer lies in the fact that these shows are money spinning mechanisms that generate a lot

of revenue for the channel.

To start with, the basic format of the show requires one to vote for his or her favourite

candidate. The voting can be cast through a text message or SMS or through a phone call

which usually is a special number. These sms’s and phone calls cost much more than their

ordinary counterparts. Television channels have a tie-up with the telephone companies in

this regard and this generates a lot of money. Hence the more the votes, more is the money

that comes in.

In addition advertisers also prefer to air their advertisements during the popular shows and

this again translates to income for the channel. So high votes and ratings mean more

advertisers and more money.

17

TOP 5 INDIAN REALITY SHOWS OF 2010Details

RANK NAME OF SHOW TRP RATING (ʼ10) CHANNEL

3 Kaun Banega Crorepati (season 4)

9.24 Sony Entertainment Television

1 Big Boss (season 4) 9.15 Colors

4 Emotional Atyachaar (season 2)

7.65 UTV Bindaas

6 Khatron Ke Khiladi (season 3)

4.66 Colors

2 Indian Idol (season 5) 1.8 Sony Entertainment Television

18

Graphical Representation

Source of ratings-INTAM

KBC 4 Big Boss 4 Emotional Atyachaar 2Khatron Ke Khiladi 3 Indian Idol 5

28%

28%

24%

14%6%

19

THE REALITY BEHIND REALITY SHOWS- AN OVERVIEW

Reality shows are touted as different from the sitcoms and soap operas that were

immensely popular till sometime back. The difference lies in the unscripted nature of these

shows. Participants are allowed to express themselves freely, whether it is to eliminate

some other contestant or to voice other concerns and emotions. This undiluted exhibition

of human emotions is what appeals to most people leading to the higher TRPs.

The modus operandi of these shows has raised several ethical questions. The main point

that is raised is that do these reality shows really show what these shows really profess to

show. Insider information about these shows has led to startling revelations.

The reality shows are not entirely scripted. In fact the footage for the entire day is

collected and then edited in a manner so that it follows a definite sequence. Most of the

participants, even the audience is asked to emote in a certain way.

Participants, especially in celebrity based shows are given a certain brief to follow where

they have to draw up their character according to a given set pattern.

For example, Kashmera Shah and Rakhi Sawant were told to behave as a trouble maker

and as a clown who goes about amusing people respectively. There are also romantic

liaisons that are built up so that audience interest is kept alive. There is also an element of

envy, competition etc that are added to keep interests on an upward acccent. In short every

thing about reality shows is not really ‘real’, its manipulated, contorted to suit a story line

and emotions are peddled and used with an amazing lack of scruples. A lot of times the

winners fade into oblivion. The emotions that were manipulated often land the participants

into a lot of distress when they go back to where they came from.

On the flip side to these arguments, participants these days know what to expect and sort

of steel themselves for all the ensuing drama. Even then, should we be as an audience

ready to give in to our voyeuristic tendencies so much that it is at the cost of other people

and their families?

20

NEED FOR REGULATIONS AND TRANSPARENCY

The reality show industry is a market with a huge potential to create wealth and capture

the imagination and emotions of the audience. This industry is estimated to be 100 crores

in worth and this is only expected to grow. In this scenario it is of utmost importance to

regulate this sector so as to mitigate the exploitative potentials and pitfalls that go with an

industry having such characteristics.

• Restructure Content: The first and foremost thing that producers need to do is to

regulate the televised content. The editing table needs to be such that it includes people

with an eye on quality. There is little sense in televising content that borders on vulgarity

because after all television is a powerful medium with an outreach that far outdoes other

forms of entertainment. What is to be shown and what is to be left out is a crucial

decision and there should be an element of morality in the entire procedure.

• Make selection and elimination procedures transparent: Secondly, critics also point

out that the selection procedures and elimination procedures are often shrouded in

controversy. The most controversial candidate, though not the most talented often

remains in the race for a very long time. The reason for this is very obvious-it brings in

revenue. As a show which seeks out talent, this is definitely one of the points that are

hotly debated. Even news channels have included segments debating this controversy.

Like how come Qazi Tauqeer managed to get the crown in Fame Gurukul? Prashanst

Tamang and Dibbendu Barua both got the coveted prize and the same questions were

asked. It is not a coincidence that all these people belonged to a minority religious group

or came from states that are still not considered as ‘mainstream India’.

21

• Money: Finally the whole aspect of a reality show is about money. Hence it is shrewd

business sense to generate more controversy as it translates to hard cash. All these

aspects are hidden from the consumer that is, the audience. This makes the entire

exercise most ‘unreal’ justifying the call to make these shows more transparent. Why

have a reality show that is every bit scripted as the family dramas?

At the end of the day, Reality Shows cheat; connive, blatantly look for ways to bring up

their ratings and certainly do cater to the lowest common denominator -- but they are

popular nonetheless, and here to stay.

22

THE FICTION BEHIND REALITY TELEVISION

Reality TV has all but taken over India’s television screens. However, the reality of what

you see is never what you get. Join me as I delve into this deception of the airwaves.

Indians are captivated each night by a thing called Reality TV. Although I personally have

no use for it, I can certainly understand its entertainment value with the masses.

If only it were viewed in moderation, and perceived for what it is — entertainment, and

anything but reality. What completely baffles my mind is the staggering number of folks

who view this pathetic phenomenon as "real stuff" and actually gauge the appearance of

their own lives against the masquerade of these shows.

Not only that, but these individuals continually put their lives on hold, rearrange their

schedules, and neglect their own real-life obligations, for the soul purpose of planting

themselves in front of their big screens.

23

EFFECTS OF REALITY TELEVISION

On Viewers

Viewers of reality television who are addicted to these daily programs often get deeply

involved into any situation. Often, certain reality television shows are based on topics that

have no thought process or concepts. The audience thus gets hooked on to TV shows,

which do not really have any intelligent concept. For example, reality TV often highlights

constant fights or disagreements between a group and even telecasts certain moments not

suitable for viewing for a family audience. However, some reality shows may even show

positive things, which viewers can learn and apply in their daily life. For example, a

person can learn about teamwork or be motivated in life to achieve their goals or even

chase a dream.

Unintelligent concept- MTV Splitsvilla

24

On Participants

Reality television can be addictive and this is something the audience already knows. Even

participants or contestants who finally get the 'lucky break' also face many effects of

reality TV. The positive thing about such shows is that contestants get a chance to voice

their opinions and showcase their talent, which depends upon the theme of the show.

These otherwise ordinary people now live a life that is watched by people around the

world. While some enjoy celebrity status, others fade into oblivion. Instant success upon

winning a reality television show gives talented people a much-needed break. But instant

success is a thing, not everybody can deal with. While some cash on to this success as they

believe in making hay while the sun shines, others allow success to inflate their egos.

Participants that only bask in the glory of their success and allow it to impact them

negatively often indulge in outrageous behavior in public and even break laws.

Sometimes, certain participants who do not achieve success even tend to go towards

depression.

Unknown faces shoot to fame instantly

25

THE REALITY BEHIND REALITY SHOWS

Only a few lucky get a foothold in showbiz...others just vanish away

Vindu Dara Singh got a new lease on life after winning Big Boss...But not all are lucky

Thousands with stars in their eyes stand in snaking queues for auditions - to sing, dance or

do comic acts. While they see it as a passport to fame, TV reality shows aren't a cakewalk,

success is not guaranteed and things can go horribly wrong.

Apart from hectic schedules and the pressure to perform, the participants also have to bear

with harsh comments from judges. In fact, Shinjini Sengupta, a contestant in Kolkata,

suffered a paralytic attack after judges' rebukes in 2008.

26

Shinjini Sengupta after the reality show

But despite the negatives, kids, teenagers and adults flock in droves to reality shows to get

their 'minute of fame'. And this could also lead to a stampede like in the case of ‘Indian

Idol 5’ auditions held in Noida Tuesday when over a dozen people were injured.

"We were expecting at least 20,000 people at the Delhi auditions but around 40,000 turned

up. That's why all the chaos happened," said a source from Sony TV, which airs ‘Indian

Idol’.

"Reality shows are a shortcut to fame...This is the desire that makes people go to any

length," Abhijeet Sawant, winner of the first ‘Indian Idol’, told IANS.

"I've been a part of a reality show; so I know what it's all about. Many people standing in

lines don't even know how to sing, but they still come for auditions for two minutes of

fame. Cameras are rolling and they just want to be on TV...All this and the urge to be

instantly successful is the driving force," he said.

27

Reality Shows are a shortcut to fame... Abhijit Sawant, Winner of Indian Idol Season 1

For instance, Piyush Chopra, who won ‘Zee Cine Stars Ki Khoj’ 2006, ‘Indian Idol’

winners Sandip Acharya, Prashant Tamang and Sourabhee Debbarma faded out soon after

the shows ended.

Though there are a lucky few like Abhijeet and Toshi Sabri, participant of ‘Amul STAR

Voice of India’, and ‘Indian Idol’ participant Meiyang Chang, who have managed to get a

foothold in the showbiz industry.

Vindu Dara Singh said he got a new lease of life after winning ‘Bigg Boss 3’.

"Reality shows are a perfect platform for anyone to get instant fame...Personally, I went to

'Bigg Boss' to achieve what I hadn't been able to in so many years...I get much more work

now than I used to get earlier," said Vindu.

But Ajay Bhalwankar, programming head for Sony, told IANS: "It's not just instant fame

that drives these youngsters to reality shows. Today's youth is looking at different

professions and shows like 'Indian Idol' are perfect platforms to get a push in their career."

28

However, the only visibility that most participants get is in the form of more reality shows

or guest appearances on TV programmes. MTV ‘Roadies’ winner Ashutosh Kaushik

participated and won in ‘Bigg Boss 2’ too. He was also spotted on the finale of ‘Rahul

Dulhania Le Jayega’.

Debojit Saha, winner of ‘Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Challenge 2005’, told IANS: "Reality shows

only give a boost to your talent and help you hone your skills. It's a very tough entry as

you have to compete with millions to get in there."

29

Tremendous exploitation

Middle class families feel these reality shows provide an opportunity to exhibit one’s

talent in singing, music, dance, comedy, laughter, etc and as the show is telecast on

satellite channels, it gives one a global platform to display talent in front of a large number

of viewers. Now, it is up to the viewers of the show to decide whom they like the most.

The role of the judges participating in the show is nothing more than that of a puppet as

they do what the channel marketing people tell them to do. The scripts are written and

there seems to be little left for the judges to do anything of their own. And if the people

have to decide the fate of participants, as most of the votes still get cast considering the

regional preferences of the voters among the participating contestants, then what is the

need of judges who rebuke and scold participants and make young participants feel like

they have committed some crime by coming on to the stage.

Truth is always stranger than fiction and imagination looks brighter than reality. Reality

shows in the name of talent hunt that are going on different TV channels are one such

mirage, which attracts fame-hungry people to itself and then slowly finish them off in a

short span of time. These channels are just exploiting young talents and making millions

of rupees through the game of voting.

Immature minds cannot take failures. They start taking too much stress, thinking about the

consequences of their failure and what their parents, teachers or relatives would say to

them on their failure? How their friends will greet them after watching the show on TV

and seeing them not qualifying for another round. All this psychological pressure takes a

toll on the nervous system of a child and then some unfortunate incident occurs. What

happened to young Shinjni, who is now admitted to a hospital after she suffered a light

paralytic attack following the harsh judgment passed on her by the judges of a dance show.

30

Reality shows are not real as they look. Everything there is dramatised in front of people

and a large number of viewers get fooled. The contestant whom the channel marketing

people think should be the winner, gets the crown. In the past too, there have been

allegations against the famous Kaun Banega Crorepati where people alleged that several

members of the BSNL reached the final 10 contestants.

Everything in reality shows are dramatized and audience is fooled.

So, the parents should realise that their children are not money-making machines and they

must not sacrifice their childhood for such programmes. The Union government must ask

all the channels to stop telecasting all reality shows, which include children under the age

of 18 years. There should be some law to stop child labour that is going on in the TV

industry.

31

A child artiste today works for more than 16 hours. Can you imagine the state of mind of

that child and what problems he has to face after he becomes 40 years of age. He will be

finished by then. It is time to act for the government and there is need to spread awareness

among the parents to stop putting load of your happiness and desires on the weak

shoulders of your children.

A child artiste works more than 16hours a day

32

Playing by the script

Racial barbs against Shilpa Shetty in Big Brother sent the TRPs soaring. Even in its Indian

version Bigg Boss, the scheming and tears continue unabated.

Racial barbs against Shilpa Shetty sent TRPs soaring. Even in Indian Big Boss it continues unabated

Baba Sehgal, who was voted out of the show, says, "Most of the reality shows cash in on

the emotional drama of the participants and the viewers. The drama-quotient is unrealistic

in these shows."

The reality show brotherhood, however, is quick to defend their spontaneity. "Nothing is

scripted,"says Deepak Tijori, who has also been evicted from Bigg Boss.

"However, the channel is definitely riding on the dramatised faces of various characters,

which have been created for the show."

So are the audience taken for a ride when they believe that there is love blossoming

between Aryan Vaid and Anupama Varma or when Rakhi Sawant declared her love interest

for the first time on the show?

33

"It's true that the participants are programmed to show certain emotions and behaviour.

But, so far as I'm concerned, everything shown between me and Anupama was real,"says

Aryan. But talk about the romance continuing in real life, and he says, "I feel it is

premature and unfair to talk about where the relationship will lead."

Game shows and talent hunts have their own brand of emotional contrivance. A Diwakar, a

Sameer or a Sanchaita brings tears to the eyes of anchor Shaan, while judges Alka Yagnik,

Abhijeet and Bappi Lahiri add more flavour by having regular tiffs or serious arguments

over a contestant's grading.

Fighting, crying and romance... Reality shows have their own brand of emotions

34

Reality Overkill on Indian Television

Deepak Dhar, country head, Endemol India says:

Reality television broke the monotony to create

interesting scripts and out-of-the-box ideas that

made them stand out from the run-of-the-mill

shows. Although drama-lovers are still glued to

their television sets at prime time, reality shows are

hogging the limelight.

Besides giving the audience the thrill and excitement of live unedited action, reality

television allows the audience to be a part of the show through engaging media. Basically,

it’s like scripted shows are running a marathon and reality shows are running a 100- meter

dash.

Reality in India has been given out only in small doses primarily packaged around song

and dance ideas. In India, viewers have now started demanding and consuming distinctive

genres thus pushing the envelop within the Indian context. Absolute reality is the next big

wave in our prime-time viewing. Content producers need to look for opportunities to push

fresh ideas and newer approaches in order to spread the reality bug across air primetime.

Take the second season of Bigg Boss that opened with healthy ratings (TRP) of 2.4 on the

newly launched general entertainment channel (GEC), Colors. The show brings together

newsmakers in their own right and from different walks of life, thus catering to a wide

audience.35

The first season of Bigg Boss is again telecast as a re-run on television depicting the

success of the format and its capability to bring back and hook on audiences.

Internationally, reality shows are shown back-to-back and the same trend has been

replicated in India with reality shows hogging the prime time during the weekdays against

the former weekend slots. Fear Factor was capsulated to a month-long back-to-back of 16

enthralling episodes. Being the driver show for Colors it substantially contributed to the

overall GRPs of the channel.

The show became the No. 1 non-fiction programme on Indian television with a TRP of 2.7

in week 32 and ended with a spectacular rating of 3.26 in week 33 (the grand finale on

August 14). Content producers must look for ideas that would grab mass attention with

made-in-India formats in the manner of The Great Indian Laughter Challenge, Jo Jeeta

Wohi Super Star (JJWS), Mission Ustaad etc. These shows are about people’s

participation, journey to fame and a lot of passion and emotion. JJWS on STAR Plus

topped the talent shows across GECs during the period by delivering an average TRP of

2.67 in 13 weeks. The JJWS finale touched a rating of 5.82, which was higher than the

finale of a popular show previously on the same slot.

Another example is The Great Indian Laughter Challenge on STAR One. In its fourth year,

the show has garnered an average TRP of 1.72 and catapulted to the top-rated show for the

channel.

In sum, the market is getting interesting for content creator as audiences get fragmented

and emerging multiple networks battle for eyeballs. Investments are directly proportional

to the ideas being produced.

The edge for content producers would lie in their commitment to story-telling, production

and viewer-engagement values.

36

Albert Almeida, Exec. VP, Sony Entertainment Television

“Is there not an overdose of reality shows on Indian television?” is the question I am often

asked by many a journalist friend. At first I was defensive in answering this question and

was often guilty of being short and abrupt with my response. I think it is partly because

one felt the question came almost like a personal assault of sorts because one happens to

represent the network that truly pioneered the advent of this genre in the country with the

path breaking reality format Indian Idol (which is now in its fourth successful season).

It was not just this but many other innovative ones that followed on the back of this

successful show like Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa, Naya Roop Nayi Zindagi (Extreme Makeover),

Comedy Circus and even the premier’s of Bigg Boss and Fear Factor on Indian television

that strengthened this perception.

Having been, in a way, accused of being party to driving the reality juggernaut or as some

say the “overkill” of reality shows on Indian television let me first share my personal

belief and unabashed support for the genre. I believe reality shows make for truly great

entertainment especially if they stay true to the core of their existence and that is for being

real. If they do so, they have the unmatched quality of being pure, of being not scripted, of

not being manipulated -all of which makes for a great journey of unpredictable twists,

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turns and what gets thrown out is great content that is rich in a myriad of emotions making

for great entertainment.

Further, for the viewer, there is a clear destination and journey to follow.

Having seen this on show after show that we have produced, and having understood this

essence I have rid myself of the guilt of feeling persecuted for having had a hand in

bringing this genre to our viewers here in India. On the contrary one takes pride in giving

Indian viewers something new and clutter-breaking!

I think there are two issues we need to understand and debate here.

One, what does this label, reality show, that we keep attaching to our shows really mean to

a viewer? And two, how much is too much?

My view on the first issue is that viewers do not attach labels the way we in the industry

do to shows. They recognise shows as brands and they stick with those brands that mean

something to them and provide them with entertainment they see value in — pretty much

like any conventional brand that would either satisfy a functional or emotional need or

both. It’s when viewers start rejecting me-too brands or brands that do not fulfill a need

that we start reading it as overkill. If this were the issue you would not have viewers

waiting for and giving a thumbs-up to successive seasons of shows like Indian Idol.

As far as the second issue is concerned, while I have partly addressed it already, I want to

lean on some statistics to make my point. If we look across channels in the general

entertainment category, all channels without exception have nearly a 70:30 skew in favour

of fiction or scripted shows. How come we never seem to ask the question — is there an

overkill of fiction shows, or an overkill of a certain kind of fiction show even though there

are a large number of them struggling to cut through and garner a share of the viewers’

time?

The truth is that you cannot hold the number of shows as being the reason for the lack of

traction-be it fiction or reality. You do not have to look to deep but rather think of it simply

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– Are all reality or scripted shows fulfilling the needs of our viewers? The answer is a

clear ‘No’.

If there is a successful music reality show, we believe we can all create a me-too that will

succeed and the same for dance and so on and so forth. What can be confidently said in

favour of great reality shows is that they are clutter breakers, audience builders and

revenue drivers. So rather than treat them as stranger than fiction and blame the quantum

of shows as the issue, we need to follow the simple principle of not dishing out more of

the same. But dish out more differently.

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Reality Shows in context of ‘Rahul Dulhaniya Le Jaayenge’

Reality shows seems to be addiction for those viewers who love it and follow the these

reality shows like die hard fans, but felt cheated and hurt when they come across those

rumors , according to which the events which took place in those reality shows were

scripted or played as if it was directed . The hunger to see the reality of others life is the

key which is making the shows popular.

Just take the example of most popular reality show “Rahul Dulhaniya Le Jayega”. In one

of the episode it shows that the girl with the name Dimpy is caught telling lie that she is

not having any past life. But the host Ram Kapoor gives such information that puzzles

other participants as well as the viewers.

The Psychology or say the mind set of all the viewers will react to this part of the show

differently. Who are emotional will feel sorry for Rahul , some other think that Dimpy

should have been shown the exit door while big chunk of viewers will think that the whole

drama of acceptance by Dimpy about her past lover and ringing to her past lover in

Australia is completely scripted.

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To an extent they are right, because the whole thing was directed in such a way that

anyone can doubt about the reality. The moment she make a call to her past lover in

Australia , she grab the receiver as if she knows how to handle the situation, in the entire

conversation she was speaking and all of a sudden ends the conversation after wishing

him. How to show this entire show can be said scripted , as it was totally in the hand of the

management of “Rahul Dulhaniya Le Jayega” . They might have edited some doubt part

and let the girl remain in the show to make the show interesting and full of suspense.

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Far from being real?

Imagine nurturing a dream of becoming the biggest singing sensation of your generation

and one fine day, getting an opportunity of showcasing your talent in front of one billion

people. Or how many of us have wondered how celebrities actually look like in a de-glam

avatar? How many of us day-dreamers have always wanted to become millionaires

overnight; without having to slog throughout our lives? How many of us always wanted a

make-over and wanted to stun the world around us? Enter reality shows. Reality shows

have equated fiction with reality, with effortless ease.

Reality television was an attempt to break the monotony of drama series. Exciting scripts

and out-of the box ideas are two aspects which have made reality TV stand out.

Reality shows come in different forms –game shows, talent hunts, celebrity shows, make-

over shows, adventure based shows. Such a huge variety ensures that the audience is spoilt

for choice. But the common element in all these varieties is watching how ordinary people

or celebrities react in real life situations.

With the SMS voting system, reality shows emerged as the next big thing on television

because of the factor of audience involvement. Talent hunts and celebrity reality shows

involve choosing the winner through a public voting system.

Speaking of Indian TV, at a time when K serials hogged the prime time slots, Kaun

Banega Crorepati ( an adaptation of the popular US quiz show- Who wants to be a

millionaire ?) became a huge hit with the masses because of an interesting mixture of

reasons, the most important one being The Big B. A quiz show with a very different feel to

it, KBC brought with it soaring TRPs. It is still remembered as Amitabh Bacchan’s biggest

comeback. What followed was a flood of reality shows on Indian TV.

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Most Indian reality shows have essentially been adaptations of western shows. For

instance Indian idol is our desi version of the American Idol, Jhalak Dikhla Ja of Dancing

with the Stars. However reality shows have always managed to keep the audience glued to

their seats. They were a welcome change for TV viewers who were fed up of the saas-

bahu sagas. Most of these reality shows became instant hits with the audience, and the TV

producers kept rolling one season after another.

KBC has got soaring TRPs since season 1

Indian Idol’s first season was extremely popular with Abhijeet Sawant becoming the next

singing phenomenon. However the other seasons did not manage to create the same hype.

This is in contrast to American Idol wherein all the seasons have been equally popular and

is now into its 8th season. Sa Re Ga Ma started as a humble talent show hosted by Sonu

Nigam soon metamorphosed into an ultra-glam, uber-dramatic reality show with the

various celebrity judges like Himesh Reshamiya, Alka Yagnik, Abhijeet and Ismail Darbar

constantly at loggerheads with each other.

MTV Roadies is still a huge rage amongst youngsters on the sheer strength of being an

original and innovative concept. Jhalak Dikhla Ja, The Great Indian Laughter Challenge

have been other popular Indian reality shows.

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MTV Roadies

Reality shows have had their fair share of controversies as well. It has been alleged that

reality shows are ‘planned or scripted’ and the voting system was often criticized for the

lack of transparency. Reality shows were probably born from the idea that if one knows

how to play around with the element of human emotions wisely, it could be extremely

rewarding in every which way. Hence TV producers have never failed to add a bit of

drama to the so-called reality shows every now and then.

Indian Idol judge, Anu Malik is shown to be extremely rude to his co- judges and overtly

critical of most of the participants, considered to be a publicity stunt by most people.

Celebrity judges threatening to leave the show because of constant tussles with fellow

judges has also been considered as a publicity gimmick. Dance shows which have shown

episodes of the celebrities performing inspite of injuries have garnered huge TRPs. We

love our rona- dhona at times don’t we? It is also said that affairs among participants have

also been intentionally highlighted to give that much needed boost to sagging TRPs.

With reality shows becoming the talk of the town, the stakes are extremely high. The

ultimate litmus test is to survive the SMS poll. The formats may vary but the SMS poll has

been a huge money spinner for both the news channels as well as the mobile operators.

The equation can now become simpler to us. More the controversies, more people get

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engrossed, what with the channels reaping double benefit not only with higher TRPs but

higher number of SMSs and more cash!

I have been a huge fan of the popular drama show Balika Vadhu for the simple reason that

it has managed to show the stark reality of the customs and traditions happening in our

villages and the mindset of a large part of India which hasn’t undergone a change in an

extremely convincing manner. The costumes, the sets, the dialogues, and the situations-

everything about this serial has led me to call it a “Reality Show”.

So are reality shows far from being real? We may agree on the fact that ultimately TV

channels are running into a profit making venture, so it is not unfair to capitalize on all

those factors which yield and have always yielded profits, both in the short and long terms.

But as individuals who shell out money from our pockets, the expectations for that

element of transparency cannot be ruled out. As for now, just sit, back and relax…. The

remote (or the choice) is yours.

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Keep Children out of reality TV

Reality shows are here to stay.The days of scripted shows, highlighting family drama, and

'saas-bahu' sagas ruling the TRPs in television, are dwindling. Reality shows are becoming

so hugely popular that most of them are showcasing repeats for the umpteenth time.Most

often, these repeats involve children's participation.

Reality shows across all genre have children partaking in them -- be it music shows Amul

Chote Ustaad, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa and Amul Maha Mukabala or dance shows like Boogie

Woogie, Dance India Dance, Zara Nachke Dekha and Nach Baliye, quiz contests such as

Bournvita Quiz and Kya Aap Panchvi Paas Hain? comedies like Laughter Challenge and

Comedy Circus and talent hunts like Entertainment Ke Liye Kuch Bhi Karega and India's

Got Talent.

Amul Chotte Ustaad

Since there is no legality involved or any minimum age bar for a child to participate in

these programmes, it is a matter of personal choice of the family for children to take part

in these shows.

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This topic is however very controversial due to the anxiety and stress that these reality

shows create in the fragile minds of youngsters.

While the television ratings may go up with children's involvement, some fatal cases

involving accidents with broken limbs, even deaths and suicides due to these shows have

been reported.

While children's involvement may prove beneficial to the producers and sponsors, the

harsh and negative comments given by the judges may prove too much for children to deal

with emotionallyas even adults find it difficult to cope up with such severe criticism.

Experts opine that, handling disapproval and failure maybe too stressful for children since

they have not yet reached an age of maturity. Besides, the fear of rejection and elimination

can cause additional pressure.

On the flip side, sudden adulation and limelight is a matter of adjustment, since as the

spotlight moves away, it can cause undue frustration and often children are unable to

readjust to the lack of attention and may get into depression sometimes cause harm to

themselves.

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MTV Roadies scripted

The nasty, tawdry nature of yet another uber popular 'reality television' show has finally

come out in the open.

Although it may not come as a huge shock to some viewers, it has been revealed that the

massively popular MTV Roadies is scripted right from scratch. Nothing about the show is

genuinely impromptu. All the roadies, their selection, their tasks, their arguments, their fist

fights, Raghu's outbursts, Ranvijay's lines are pre-decided and pre-written. You don't need

to have a PhD to figure out that the winner is pre-decided as well. The whole show from

day 1 is planned and all that the 'selected roadies' have to do is act like everything is real,

challenging and new.

What's more heartbreaking is that even the auditions that are broadcasted in the earlier

episodes are fabricated just to hook in viewers.

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Here is what Roadies 6.0 contestant Palak has to say about the show:

"I don’t want to take names but MTV Roadies is totally pre-planned. Their show is

tweaked on the basis of TRPs. And whichever participant they believe can help them

garner more TRPs is pushed ahead in the show, irrespective of their true caliber...this is not

‘reality’ television.

In fact, I was told by someone that participants were made to sign a contract according to

which, if they revealed the goings on in the show, they would have to pay a penalty of Rs

10 lakhs. Even I was asked to sign an agreement but thankfully I refused. At the time, I

wasn’t aware of this clause.

They got me back as a wild card entry on the show after I got eliminated and then started

accusing me of bringing down their TRPs. If that was the case, why did they bring me

back at all, and why didn’t they let me go the second time when I was close to

elimination? Instead, a strong contender like Sufi was sent out.

It was all a game, smartly played by the producers. First, they made me an aggressive

character on the show and then told me that people hate me. Even in the semi-finals, Kiri

had decided to fight it out at the finals with me but, for close to an hour, Raghu, Ram and

other members kept on abusing him and made him choose Nauman.

Even when I fainted on the show, their cameramen surrounded me and kept on recording

me from different angles for close to five minutes before getting me medical attention.

This is not it. What they showed on screen was also edited. They showed me get up,

crying within seconds and then added bytes by other contestants, who blabbered about

how I had put up a fake act. This is the level they can stoop to.

They don’t care about anyone. On purpose, they make incompatible, hot-headed people

stay together to create some fireworks. They have cameramen following every participant

and provoke us to say controversial things. Even the bike that was promised to me has still

not been delivered to me.

I just want to tell every youngster out there, who dreams of becoming a Roadie, that it is

an insensitive show. They only know how to exploit youngsters for money."49

Reality television was invented to provide a revolutionary, alternative form of

entertainment. Now its just about making a quick wad of cash by fooling viewers. Isn't that

thievery? Good luck watching the seventh season, guys.

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Love, Sex Aur Dhoka- No longer a taboo

Television has glorified washing dirty linen in public. The closest approach that people

used to have towards taboo topics like cheating, two-timing, breaking up and gory little

details about relationships is no longer hidden inside the four walls of one’s home- its

considered ‘cool’ to bare it all on television now.

Shows like swayamvar, emotional atyaachar, axe ur ex, splitsvilla, sach ka saamna etc have involved serious issues like infidelity, revenge, cheating and sex.

The content developers claim that such shows are coming into existence and doing well

because there is a demand for it from the audience.

Shalini Sethi, programming head of a television channel says, “Today’s generation is

practical, positive and are not ashamed to display their feelings. These shows are a

reflection of whats going on amongst the youth today.”

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She feels that the target audience of these shows are generally the youth. The creative team

behind these reality shows feel that issues like cheating and sex are very popular with

college-goers.

Kaanchan Adhikkari, TV Producer says that “somehow i feel these shows are scripted. Its

not possible to put up a camera without the person knowing about it.”

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EMOTIONAL ATYACHAAR: A CASE ANALYSIS

Format of the show

A new show on UTV Bindaas Channel – ‘Emotional Atyachaar‘ spies on your partner

to check his/her loyalty. Somewhat similar to ‘Cheaters’ of the West, the show with its

team of investigation spies on the activities of the partner and then reveals to the partner.

What follows next is an emotional confrontation with forms the real juicy part of the

show!

’Cheaters’ in the west

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In this show, if a person doubts his/her boyfriend's/girlfriend's loyalty, can ask for a loyalty

test on him/her. The person checking his/her partner's loyalty is referred to as the lead,

while the person on whom the loyalty test is being performed is called the suspect. The

crew members follow him/her and also ask another boy/girl to act as if he/she is intimate

with him/her. These are caught on camera and shown to the lead on their request. The

entire investigation is conducted over period of 4-5 days.

‘Emotional Atyachar’ brings raw emotion to TV like never before. As one partner’s actions

are caught on hidden cameras, the other is watching what happens. If it all gets too much,

there is a button which he or she can press during the live streaming to bring a halt to the

proceedings, then leave the studio and meet his/her partner. Bindass ‘Emotional Atyachar’

takes the concept of love and fidelity to a whole new level, revealing the real truth behind

relationships on national television.

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Watching the show from the comfort of their homes, viewers will be on the edge of their

seats, as the action unravels during this path breaking reality show.

Commenting on the launch of ‘Emotional Atyachar’, Heather Gupta, Channel Head- UTV

Bindass says, “This concept is a stark contrast to the regular and rather monotonous form

of reality shows which involve music, dance, etc. This is a groundbreaking and original

concept which promises not only to be an extremely engaging watch but also a reflection

of what people actually experience. Fidelity is an absolute requirement in most

relationships and a test of that on national television will certainly be worth the watch.”

Angad Bedi, the host of the show comments, “My role in the show is to watch as the

action unfolds, and be a support for the person who is watching the investigation. I’m

there for them as they watch, and there to support them as they confront their cheating

partner, if indeed that happens. The discovery of infidelity is a truly painful experience,

but I genuinely believe that it is better to endure a short term pain, than to discover an

infidelity down the line, when a relationship may have moved to a much more serious

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level. After all, if someone was cheating on you, wouldn’t you rather know? Thankfully

UTV Bindass is here to save you from ‘Emotional Atyachar’.”

Angad Bedi- Host of Season 1

Promising to keep you glued to your television screen, ‘Emotional Atyachar’ will give you

the excitement of being able to witness the drama of a real relationship as well as gain

insights into life and love. This show will certainly keep you at the edge of your seat and

gripped with tension as you witness the Bindass Crew unfold the drama of love, lust and

potential confrontation and no one can predict the extent of the fireworks that will follow!

To add on to the program, a robust marketing plan has been crafted with a mix of various

media including TV, radio, print, web, multiplex, trade and BTL in multiple cities will be

held in these cities to create buzz.

‘Emotional Atyachar’ is being produced by UTV Television with inputs from creative

director and writer Roshni Ghosh. The program is conceptualized by the Bindass Team

with input from head of programming Shalini Sethi, creative director Shifa and executive

producer Divya Sanjeev.

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Season 1 & Season 2

In its first season, Emotional Atyachaar was a path breaking new reality show that put

relationships to the ultimate loyalty test. People watched behind the scenes as their

cheating partner’s actions were caught on hidden cameras. Armed with the truth, these

individuals confronted their cheating partners and saved themselves from Emotional

Atyachaar.

The second explosive season of Emotional Atyachaar takes place not just in Mumbai but

across the country. The stories are more twisted, the confrontations more public. Even

family members get involved!

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Popularity

The ‘Emotional Atyachaar’ show of UTV Bindass has become very popular among the

youngsters. The channel is now trying to syndicate its format to US.

The popularity of the show has inspired the channel to earn some money from it. The

business head of UTV Bindass, Nikhil Gandhi says, “Emotional Atyachaar is an entirely

new concept with fresh format. We are trying to explore the opportunities of syndicating

the format of the show to the US.”

Gandhi refused to admit that there is some similarity between this show and the

international show ‘Cheaters’. The mentioned international show is based on spying on

one’s partner. He said that ‘Emotional Atyachaar,’ shows young couples on the stage and

‘Cheaters’ deals with only married couples.

UTV Bindass is now in talks with Shemaroo to launch the home videos of ‘Emotional

Atyachaar’.

“I like ‘Emotional Atyachar’ because it tests your love. It checks whether a person can

really resist temptations and stops where his limit is. These show teach you that

commitment requires a lot of dedication. Love is not that easy…so better commit to

someone when you are 100 percent sure,” said Jitin Gulati, a college student.

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“The ratings for ‘Emotional Atyachaar’ are very high. We basically target these shows at

people aged 15-24 years…people who are typically college students or in their first jobs

and they are doing pretty well,” Heather Gupta, UTV Bindass channel head, told IANS

over phone from Mumbai.

“These shows based on love are doing well among this target audience mainly because this

is their age of experiencing the emotion and they connect to the shows very well,” added

Gupta.

Unlike Gulati, there are avid watchers of these reality shows not because they test one’s

love but because there isn’t much else to watch on television except the usual soaps. Some

people admit they just get a kick watching people fight or fall in love on television.

“I think these shows are cool and funny. Cool because they try and show how love

develops and dies in different ways and funny because it’s crazy to see people slapping

and abusing each other on screen,” said 23-year-old Kabir Manchanda.

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“I also feel there’s hardly anything for us to watch in terms of Hindi shows. Even though

the ’saas-bahu’ sagas are over, others that have taken over are made keeping housewives in

mind,” Manchanda told IANS.

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About the channel

Bindass (also known as UTVBindass), is a Hindi entertainment channel in India targeted

at Indian youth. It was launched on 24 September 2007 under CEO Zarina Mehta.

Bindass is defined by its brand values of being Fun, Frank, Fearless and Free. It is India's

first 360 degree brand with verticals across television, web, mobile, gaming,

merchandising & nation-wide ground events.

Current Shows:

• Bindaas Bhopu

• Juke Box

• Bindaas Sham Singh

• 2 Idiots

• Ugesh Sarkar 3rd Degree

• Benny Hill Show

• Big Switch

• Emotional Atyachaar

• Beg Borrow Steal Woof

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Emotional Atyachaar is RIGGED!

In an interview on HT Cafe, a girl, who participated in UTV Bindaas’ Emotional

Atyachaar, reveals that not only was she paid by the channel to enact the drama, she did

not even know the boy who was shown to ber her boyfriend on the show!

I had never met this ‘boyfriend!’

Speaking on condition of anonymity, she says, “I am 24 and, like any girl my age, I

jumped at the opportunity to be on TV. After making me sign a confidentiality clause, I

was told that Id be given a ‘fake’ boyfriend on whom the show would conduct a loyalty

test on camera. I had never seen this ‘boyfriend’, who had been picked from an audition of

aspiring models. We were told to say that we’ve been in a steady relationship, and the

channel shot footage of us ‘in happy times’. Later, they shot a few ‘candid camera’

sequences of this guy making out with the undercover agent. He was aware that he was

being filmed. There was make-up and rehearsed dialogues too. I was paid 20,000 by the

channel, half in cash and half in cheque.”

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We were paid to cry and slap our fake ‘boyfriend’

The revelation was backed by Vibhore Choudhary, 23, a Delhi model who says, “I was

contacted by UTV for the role of a ‘boyfriend’. But when I was told that I would get paid

only 15,000, I refused.”

Are celebrity episodes also stages then?

TV actor Bobby Darling, who has appeared on the show says, “Yes. Including the way I

had to slap and cry.”

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CONCLUSION

Well nothing in this world is perfect and neither are these shows. However some shows are

very well prepared and executed and liked by all, like “Kaun bangena crorepati” ,”Hasn

baliye” or “comedy circus” or right now Sohs’s “ Khelo jeeto jeeyo” show where people

win numerous gifts and enjoy themselves and I am sure that many would like to

participate in shows like these ones.

Definitely seeing these shows is no crime. As I mentioned earlier that some shows are very

well prepared keeping in mind all age groups. In some programs you get to exhibit your

talent like, “ Entertainment ke liye kuch bhi karega” but some shows like “ Roadies”,

“Splitsvilla”, “ Iss Jungle Se Mujhe Bachao” are of the category where some restraint is

required. Why?

Well because you see such things and their effect creeps into your life as well. For eg.

After watching an inspirational movie like “Chak de”, there is a different feeling inside

you. You may not be able to express it in words, but the presence is felt. And a different

feeling after you watch a horror flick. Also language is an essential part of our lives. Using

slang’s have became a habit, but not a healthy one. So see the shows, but fights and vote

outs can be avoided as your mind then tends to be on them only.

Whether we like it or not, reality shows are here for the time being and have a large viewer

ship. They are at least better than the “K” serials where extra marital affairs and fights

between family members, not to forget the constant howling is prominent.

We are responsible for whatever we do. Why expect someone else to change? You don’t

like something, the choice and remote both are in your hands. Do the needful.

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BIBLIOGRAPHY

www.rediff.com

www.indiainfoline.com

www.business-standard.com

www.India-stats.com

www.Agencyfaqs.com

www.Equitymaster.com

www.indiantelevision.com

www.myiris.com

www.ibef.org

www.thehindubusinessline.com

Channel heads- Endemol and Sony Entertainment Television

Newspapers- Hindustan Times & Mumbai Mirror

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