to be continued

sadhuji

We have got accustomed to TV soaps that continue for ages – when Doordarshan ruled the skies, serials were slotted for thirteen episodes, the logic was that the audience would not be able to accept anything bigger. Also, it allowed greater participation by other serial makers and the audience was treated to a wide variety of offerings. Exceptions were made for the epics Ramayana and Mahabharata because it marked the entry of special effects on the small screen. The special effects were nothing really impressive but, to the viewers of the eighties, these were mini revolutions, till more dynamic serial makers descended on to the scene and grabbed the attention of the viewers. Family soaps hit the screens – they began so very innocently like the famous SBKBT. Remember the innocent Tulsi, daughter of a priest and the apple of the eyes of the Virani family. She finally becomes a part of the family itself and one has lost count of the number of plots that have been woven around her. This is one serial that does not seem to have any end because by the time one problem is resolved, another one crops up.

The popularity of this serial has spawned a whole new generation of serials – majority of these are from the same production house. With a change of name here, a change of location there and a slight modification of an earlier plot, emerges a new product. And, through the make believe characters on view, new dress codes are marketed, new values of social structure are defined. Extra marital relationships are no longer taboo and, creating trouble for others is as simple as the snap of a finger. It is just as easy to get out of trouble yourself.

This feature of ‘to be continued’ has now made an entry into the advertising world. Cold drinks giants have so much to say that they find the allotted time slot too small. Or, they are in a hurry to say something and hold the viewers attention while the remaining part of the ad is being finalized. Hence, they launch the ad partially. Or is it to gauge viewer acceptance? Whatever be the reason, it makes a mockery of youth when you see actors past their wonder years gawk at hip swinging belles who have the stamp of authority on their derrieres.

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mooning over a moon journey

jyotirmoy

I always went to the barber, mother dairy booths etc. while Ramayan was being telecast.... with every one glued to the tube got work done quickly & smoothly.

Paagla Dashu

So you went aginst the flow - I hope the morality brigade does not blame you for being "anti-cultural".