IWMBuzz

An analysis on the current scenario in the spectrum of Indian reality shows

“Life is short, though I keep this from my children”, are the first words of ‘Good Bones’, a poem by Maggie Smith that often gets reposted on social media.

The magical words intend to highlight the gruesome grimness of human existence on this soil. It also, however, strikes a positive note and rekindles faith & hope and inspire one to continue with the journey called life.

The thought uncannily finds a bind with the current scenario of talent hunt reality shows on Indian television.

The space has always been intriguing, tugging the aspirational chords of middle class India. Be it getting groovy on stage to displaying one’s vocal valour, talent hunt reality shows have drawn crowds in droves.

The feeling of seeing a boy or girl next door kiss the air of fame is orgasmic for a country marred with everyday struggles.

Like Maggie Smith’s poem, the scenario is dystopian. One is aware that the space is over exploited and the journey is bitter sour… yet, thanks to the aspirational spirit of India, participants ride in and out without leaving any impressive trails.

Yesteryear blockbusters Antakshari, Meri Awaz Suno paved way for modern day marvels Indian Idol, Dance India Dance…rest tip toeing on similar grounds.

Last few months saw a overdose of talent hunt shows on TV, making it difficult to differentiate one from other.

The Voice &TV, Indian Idol on Sony TV, Dil Hai Hindustani on Star Plus, SaReGaMaPa Li’l Champs on Zee TV beamed simultaneously.

Sleek in packaging and high on drama, the shows hit the rut mode hurrying on with its dal chawal creative chores.

Result? None made an impressive mark and its contestants, even winners, entered the bleak world of oblivion post a flicker of fame.

Talk about a successful reality show artist, Abhijeet Sawant’s name is perpetually ingrained in the minds of audiences.

Couple of years back Shakti Mohans (DID)of the world did find a connect but in recent times it’s all too miasmatic.

Like Maggie Smith’s poem, the scenario is dystopian. One is aware that the space is over exploited and the journey is bitter sour… yet, thanks to the aspirational spirit of India, participants ride in and out without leaving any impressive trails.

The makers need to introspect on the viability of the genre. Identical look & feel, swapping judges from one show to another and scripted melodrama… in the greed of numbers, talent finds itself weeping in a dark room.

What new can be offered? What is the formula to regain the lost glory?  Pertinent questions are needed to be answered and the circus of clowns tossing ambition in the air needs to cease.

Talent for talent’s sake… art for art’s sake.

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About The Author
Siddhartha Laik

With over 10 years of experience in media and entertainment, Siddhartha believes in the importance of attitude over aptitude. With Masters in English Literature from Fergusson College, Pune (First Class) and a Diploma in Journalism, he has immense knowledge in diverse fields of editorial, content creation, effective communication, team building, leadership, motivational speaking, personality development, success principles, digital, print and broadcast media, soft skills et al. “In today’s time it is all about multi-tasking. An individual has immense potential to break notions and conventions and explore unchartered territories. All one needs to do is work hard on self development and BELIEVE”-Siddhartha After being part of editorial teams in organizations like Times of India, Mid Day, Magna Publication, Indian Express, Sakaal Times, Indiantelevision.com Pvt Ltd Group, in capacity ranging from a reporter to Managing Editor & Head of Business, Siddhartha is the Founder & Editor-in-chief at IWMBuzz (earlier known as IndianWikiMedia). His role includes heading editorial, building and motivating teamforce, crisis management, business strategy and launching new properties. A communicator par excellence, a motivator, a leader, an innovator, a risk taker, Siddhartha was awarded the Best Student in his journalism course and has also featured on India TV as a commentator, Bigg Boss as a news seeker, and is a visiting faculty in multiple media institutions. His hobbies include playing a guitar, reading and writing fiction literature, debating and discussing on current affairs and watching superhero movies.