When they win, you discuss it with family and friends; when they don’t, you blame the channel, the voters and the world at large!Reality shows and their one-hour package of the highs, lows and drama have really caught the fancy of Gen i. They were introduced to Indian TV viewers in 1993 with Zee TV’s show Antakshari. Now, more than a decade later, DT explores what makes reality television such a draw...
‘It’s all about the minute’
Reality TV is the spice that has been added to the Indian audience’s platter. Opines Prem Kamath, VP, marketing and communication, Star India Pvt Ltd, “It is easier for the viewers to identify with the participants of reality shows than fiction shows. The viewers sit on the edge of their seats when, week after week, the participants perform and are eliminated the very next day. That’s their high.”
Kunal Ganjawala, one of the judges on Star TV’s latest offering, Star Voice of India Chhote Ustaad, avers, “Such shows suit the busy, work-filled lives that youngsters are leading these days. It is all about the minute.”
‘Every performance is make or break’
For the participants of these reality shows, it is the no-retakes rule that gives them a real high. “No scripts, no manipulations, only real talent for the performing arts or daredevil stunts – that’s the reason why participants are hailed by the viewers. It is all about instant gratification,” says director Karan Johar, who will be judging celeb participants on Say Shava Shava.
‘It’s the prizes too’
Kaun Banega Crorepari’s contest Har Seat Hot Seat made every viewer vie for the prize money of Rs 2 lakh. No wonder, another reason for the viewers to watch the show is also to win big prizes and meet stars like Big B and SRK. “From all-expenses-paid trips and cell phones to cash prizes, these shows make the viewers participate as well,” says Gyan Sahay, director of one such show.
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