Time and again, we come across several debates where people talk about how Indian television content continues to be regressive inspite of several attempts of revolutionizing television viewing. From saas-bahu sagas to quintessential potboiler dramas and illogical supernatural antics, some things continue to be preposterous for some and ‘entertainment’ for many.
Recently, we got in a conversation with actress, Ridhi Dogra Vashisth who plays Nisha in the Zee TV show, ‘Woh Apna Sa‘ and got talking about the same.
Ridhi said, “Well, talking about the content being portrayed on television, I do feel that as actors, we have to do our jobs on what is being presented to us. The writers and actors do what they do because of whatever is happening which, sadly is the reflection of our society. When we come across several scenes to perform, we notice that however ‘regressive’ it may sound, it is actually true and prevalent across.”
She added, “It is nothing but taboos and regression of our society that is being portrayed. In India, not everyone but when the masses switch on to watch a TV show, they are not looking for realism and grittiness, but they are looking for drama and plot twists which are relatable. That is because, that half an hour is a period, they forget about their life and are engrossed in a show; so the portrayal has to be catering to them.”
Ridhi also threw some light on the makeshift of television and mentioned, “I cannot deny that there is a makeshift happening on Indian television and I am glad that I have been a part of shows like that in the past too. The best part about the history of my work is I tried to balance the idea of being content driven along with presenting adequate drama which was obvious in Marayada – Lekin Kab Tak?’, Savitri’ and a relatively lesser known show Hindi Hai Hum.’ Even now with Woh Apna Sa’, my character is on the lines of being fierce, negative but also has a certain drama attached to it.”
She also said, “When I come across certain scenes that have been presented, I actually feel like, ‘Really? Who even does this?’. But then many of my co-actors and other people actually tell me that Yes, it happens’ and even tell me instances as to how and when. And this is not even the rural areas I am talking about, it is actually the urban areas we are talking here. I don’t get shocked at all this but feel extremely sad about the state of the country we are living in. Hence, it is not about the channel or a show portraying something of this manner, but it is the state of our country that is the real concern.”
Closing on a mellow note, the actress said, “At the end of the day, we as actors want that people remember us for the characters we played… and entertainment, ultimately is just entertainment. One can’t really change the world and the things said above is nothing but my opinion. When it comes to my work, I approach my work in the most positive manner and I love my job a lot. These topics can be discussed about time and again and be debated on, but that doesn’t take away the love for my profession.”
What do you have to say about the actress’ views on the saga? Leave in your comments below.