TV producers had a sigh of relief on completion of IPL-T20, as it had taken too much of viewership away for the past 45 days. Those lucky families who had two TV sets in the house, could view the serials, especially the women folks. But, those having only one set, the male members in the house played dominant role watching the matches during prime time. At least the housewives could watch some of their favourite serials during repeat telecast in the afternoon or evening; but those working women only cursed Mr. Lalit Modi, for introducing such a stupid sport, which according to them was just a way of making money. No wonder, these curses had its effect, with Modi being shown the door by IPL committee.

It may be recalled that when IPL-T20 was first introduced and there was a session on ‘Cricket popularity in Indian entertainment’ during the FICCI-Frames yearly seminar. it was Mr. Lalit Modi, who was then one of the speakers; spoke openly about his intentions to start IPL-T20. “ I just want to have these IPL-T20 cricket telecast during prime time, so that people shouldn’t watch those stupid Saas-bahu serials,’ he said; clearly indicating his hatred towards such programmes. And he did succeed in his mission. During the IPL cricket matches, the TRP’s of all such serials did drop down. The only way out left with the makers of such serials was to drag on with the story using time pass methods.

Now that the IPL season has come to an end, the serial makers are gearing up with new additions and at the same time some of the channels are introducing new reality shows. If we talk particularly about the Marathi serials, it was the same story. Almost all the serials didn’t show any important happenings and just dragged on for a while. ‘Agnihotra’ which was nearing completion, just had some fun games like singing songs, chit chat etc. among the artistes with not much progress towards the happy end. The introduction of new serials has also been delayed, though repeated advertisements about their arrival are flashed.

On the news side, there is nothing much for the news channels to report, as the Government is finding no opposition to rising price rise of essential commodities . Thanks to division of vote amongst opposition parties. The divide and rule game of the ruling party has been managed well. In fact, there is nothing for the news channels to report, except for holding debates. But, they are doing their job of creating awareness about the rights of the citizens. If there were no news channels, some of our politicians and heads of the sports bodies would have taken the people for granted.

by Ulhas Shirke © MMW