Television has always been a powerful medium in India, with the ability to influence the way people think and perceive the world around them. As such, it is important for media to portray women in a positive and empowering light. In recent years, there has been a significant change in the way female characters are portrayed on Indian television, with stories becoming more realistic and characters becoming more relatable.
Entrepreneur turned filmmaker and actor, Nikhil Nanda, believes that this change is long overdue. He notes that while there has been progress over the past two decades, the pace of change has been slow. However, in the past year, the focus has shifted towards ensuring that women are portrayed in the right light and are given their due share in the media.
One example of this is the new Tanishq advertisement, which beautifully portrays women not just as superwomen but as humans with strengths and weaknesses. This is a significant departure from the traditional portrayal of women as perfect and flawless, which has been a prevalent stereotype in Indian media.
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The representation of women on television has evolved considerably over the years, with shows like Anupama and Bhabhi Ji.. creating history and setting role models for future generations. These shows have portrayed women from different walks of life and showcased their strengths, despite the challenges they face.
Nanda acknowledges that these shows are not perfect and have their flaws, but overall, they have ensured that strong characteristics of women are showcased, whether they come from a village or a city. This has helped to impress all strata of society, and in turn, contribute to a more gender-equal society.
One of the significant changes in the portrayal of women on Indian television is the shift from the traditional roles of women as caregivers and homemakers to portraying them as career-oriented and ambitious individuals. Shows like Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, Kahaani Ghar Ghar Ki, and Kkusum have depicted women who balance their careers and families with ease, challenging the stereotype that women cannot have it all.
Moreover, the depiction of women in leadership roles has become more commonplace. Shows like Swabhimaan and Shanti have showcased women as strong leaders who can make a difference in society, and this has had a significant impact on how women are perceived in the real world.
The portrayal of women on Indian television has not been without criticism. There have been instances where women have been objectified, and their roles have been reduced to mere eye-candy. However, these instances are becoming rarer, and the focus is shifting towards portraying women as individuals with their own personalities and ambitions.
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The evolution of female characters on Indian television is a step towards progress and empowerment. While there is still a long way to go, the fact that women are being portrayed as individuals with their own strengths and weaknesses is a significant change from the traditional stereotype of the perfect and flawless woman. The shift towards portraying women in leadership roles and as career-oriented individuals is also a positive development. With the right representation, Indian television can contribute towards creating a more gender-equal society where women are seen as equals and not as mere objects.
