Reality Shows: TRP Race or Mirror Society
Last Updated on April 2, 2023 by Administrator
Reality shows have been the new age in the world of television. The fictional shows were being telecasted long back when television was being opted in society. However, the idea that the show was not written and is not fictionally gained more popularity. The concept of unpredicted direct shows without any script was termed reality shows. And it eventually gained more popularity when a person’s life was directly seen. The thin line between fictional and non-fictional makes watching it more interesting and demanding. Shows like competitions in singing, dancing, talent search shows, shows with hidden cameras and life being monitored etc, are regarded as reality shows. Shows like talk shows, news, and sports are not been categorised as reality shows.
Looking into the scenario of how reality shows have impacted society and the younger generation especially, we notice that some of the virtual experiences are shown. How the competition among individuals has been at a greater rate, and people with different talents are being appreciated. This is a change that this generation has seen and moreover also enjoyed. The biggest criticism of reality shows is that even though these shows are being regulated and modified, people are being taught how to act on screen. Moreover, some portions are being edited, cut and then telecasted in the said time. It is not being live telecast, so it is not completely unscripted. On the other hand, in some shows where there is competition, people who do not reach the desired level get demotivated and humiliated as being rejected on a larger platform and in front of a huge population. The intelligence is being mocked on a public platform.
The race of TRP for the world of television, regarding fictional or non-fictional shows, has been of great importance for everyone associated with that show. A target rating point (TRP) is a type of calculation or metric to know the targeted audience and the demand for that particular show or advertisement. For this, we have an Indian agency named “Broadcast Audience Research Council” using the BAR-O meter, which releases the weekly TRP for all the channels and shows. It is noticed that with the TRP, it becomes a little advantageous for the advertisers on seeing about the popularity of shows, they are able to decide on which channel and in between which show their advertisement would flash that would be beneficial for the profit and a whole number of population can know about the same. With the help of TRP, we can learn about the likings and dislikes of the content shown to the public. Whether people viewing it are enjoying it or otherwise, the content needs to be changed or brought modifications are later than discussed.
If we talk about the expenses i.e. spent for the creation of the reality show, we notice that around Rs. 50 lakhs to Rs. 1 Crore is spent per episode. Taking into consideration the high-star cast and their payment. So, if the show is unsuccessful, it again becomes a huge loss for the makers. Taking up something new is always challenging. No doubt, it has gained popularity in business which is something different. Change is the law of life, and we cannot deny that changes have been adopted, which might be advantageous and sometimes disadvantageous for society. The generation of reality shows has definitely brought some changes in the minds and life too. Shows like “Kaun Banega Crorepati” have brought changes with knowledge. Shows like “Khatron ke Khiladi”, “Roadies”, and “Big Boss” have been popular among youngsters for a different level of entertainment being given by them, which is accepted by the younger generation.
Written by - Debabala | Edited by - Ayush Kumar
