Category Archives: TV Watch

Marathi Serials
TV Watch

Are subjects of Marathi serials appealing Hindi viewers?

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Marathi SerialsTill now, we had only heard that the Saas- bahu themes of Hindi TV serials were influencing Marathi serial writers. But now, we are noticing that remakes of Marathi serials are made on Hindi television. There is also news that few Marathi serials will be dubbed in Hindi, thus giving exposure to Marathi artistes on Hindi television. This is certainly a good news for Marathi artistes. At least, they will get noticed at national level and receive good offers from Hindi film producers. Even otherwise, Marathi serials are attracting good viewership, among the regional channels. With the rise in viewership, they are also likely to collect good revenue, through commercial ads.

Based on the story of Zee Marathi’s ‘Honar Suun Mee Hya Gharchi’, Zee TV have introduced their Hindi serial ‘Satarangee Sasural’.  And now, watching the popularity of this serial, it is understood that they are planning to dub their two Marathi serials  ‘Eka Lagnachi Teesari Goshta’ and ‘Julun Yeti Reshimgathi’, which are family dramas. Now, it remains to be seen, how our Marathi artistes will be accepted by Hindi viewers? If it works, it will certainly benefit our Marathi artistes, to reach every household, across the country.

By the way, the news about the separation of Shree and Janhavi in real life, was highlighted on Marathi news channels during the week; with Shashank ketkar filing for divorce, from his wife Tejashree. But, in the serial, we are noticing the possibility of their reunion, with the wicked plans of Janhavi’s step mother, being exposed. Will this prevent their divorce in real life ? Only time will tell. But, there are many cases of settlement, with mutual understanding. Instead of performing separately in different dramas, their admirers would love to watch them together on Marathi stage. Even otherwise, recently they did anchoring together, for an award show ,in spite of the talks about their ‘break up’ taking rounds.

In the coming week, Marathi programmes at  prime time, are likely to face a challenge from IPL T20 matches, which are moving in interesting stage. But when, there hasn’t been much effect of IPL on Marathi films, don’t think that the viewership of Marathi programmes would suffer. It looks like that our Marathi serials  are all prepared to face this challenge.

Marathi MOvie, Multiplex
TV Watch

Multiplex issue still debated on news channels

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Marathi MOvie, Multiplex

Ever since Mr. Vinod Tawde, Cultural Minister of Maharashtra, made an announcement to ensure prime time shows in all multiplexes in Maharashtra, the issue is still being debated on different Marathi news channels.  Last week, on TV 9 Marathi news channel,  there was an interesting debate with film maker Dr. Mrinalini Patil taking the lead on behalf of small budget and medium budget film makers. She not only criticized people like Shobha De, who had spoken sarcastically, that Potato Wada would  be sold at Multiplex  soon. Very cleverly, Mrinalini questioned Shobha De, “When Idlis can be sold in South at Multiplexes, why should someone make a comment on Potato wada?”

Others, who took part in this discussion were Mr.  Vidhani, representing Single Screen theatre, Shaina N.C. from BJP and a representative of MNS. Though Shaina N.C. appealed to all Marathi film makers, to approach Mr. Tawde with their complaints; Dr. Mrinalini Patil openly said that she had already formed a Film maker’s forum, to fight injustice on them. “All those small film makers, facing problems, should join this forum, which will fight for their rights, for theatre availability and other issues.” she said.  “I have left my career as a doctor, I have also left politics, since I was seriously interested in making films. Now, I want to fight, for the rights of film makers.” she concluded.

While watching the Marathi film ‘Zapatlelya Betavar’, one really wondered, when was this unknown, suspense filled film, starring Sachin Khedekar , Vijay Chavan and others was released? Perhaps in the early 90s, as Sachin Khedekar looks much younger and slim. One thing was certain that it was inspired by 1965 Bollywood film ‘Gumnaam’ If, it was so, then 2013 multi starrer Marathi film ‘Ashyach Eka Betavar’ was inspired by which film? Was it ‘Gumnaam’ or ‘Zapatlelya Betavar’?

As the IPL cricket is going on, there isn’t anything remarkable  happening in ongoing Marathi TV serials. Like our Marathi films, the Prime Time seems to be bothering our Marathi TV channels too. But, Star Pravah made a clever move, by introducing their new serial ‘Arey Vedya Manaa’ in 7pm slot. Besides the regular serials, even the promotion of forthcoming films on television channels, has also been affected.

Puja Thombre, Swanandi Tikekar
TV Watch

Has ‘Dil Dosti Duniyadari’ captured new viewers?

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Puja Thombre, Swanandi Tikekar

Film maker Sanjay Jadhav knows very well, how to capture new audience. After ‘Duniyadari’, though his experiment failed in ‘Pyar wali Lover story’ he has found small screen to present his latest serial ‘Dil Dosti Duniyadari’. Very ideally he selected the time 10.30 at night, which is well suited to today’s young  generation. Already having one Christian girl Anna in the group of six friends living together; now, we find a Gujarati character of Kinjal walking into the serial, as a talkative girl friend of bearded Ashutosh. No wonder, instead of IPL Cricket, nowdays, youngsters are only talking about Prarthana Behere in ‘Coffee Aani Barach kahi’ Marathi films and the characters of ‘’Dil Dosti Duniyadari’ serial. Good move, by this serial’s producer Sanjay Jadhav.

Today, time has come, where the serial makers of all the channels need to study the viewer’s psychology, instead of presenting the traditional family socials and banking on the existing viewers. Frankly speaking, depending on the regular viewers, is a risky step. Instead, it is always better to tap the new viewer to Marathi television. One should not forget the competition from Hindi entertainment channels. ‘CID’ did it, by grabbing the Marathi viewers, then ‘Pavitra Rishta’ did the same and now ‘Reporters’ on Sony television at prime time, is also expected to take away regular Marathi TV viewers, if they do not find Marathi serials interesting enough.

But, ‘Dil Dosti Duniyadari’ is doing exactly the opposite way, which is good for Marathi television. Hope, it continues to present interesting happenings in the screenplay, in days to come, if it has to reach popularity heights. Swanandi Tikekar is the best among the new talents. She seems to be a perfect choice  for the character of Meenal.  Wishing the entire team, all the best.

After that unexpected ‘Double role’ drama played by the hero Harish Dudhade in the serial ‘Majhe Mann Tujhe Jhale’ on Colors channel; now it’s time for Swarda’s character to give ‘Agnipariksha’, which is new way of extending the story of this serial . By the way, the character played by Aditi Sarangdhar, seems to have disappeared from this serial.

Star Pravah’s ‘Jayostute’ presented all such happenings in the recent past, which has taken away the interest of the audience from this serial. There was no logical thinking used in all those recent developments, in this so called justice based serial. Instead, it seems to be dragging on with the individual issues of every character, rather than offering justice to the deserving  people very much in need of it.

Marathi MOvie, Multiplex
TV Watch

Why debate on Marathi films getting prime time at multiplexes ?

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Marathi MOvie, MultiplexThe Cultural Minister of Maharashtra State Mr. Vinod Tawde made an official announcement yesterday , stating that  all multiplex owners will be asked to allot prime time to Marathi films. And, we saw mixed reactions coming from different people. Though Marathi film industry and especially the Marathi film makers welcomed the move, those, perhaps opposed to this announcement, could not digest it. Our own Marathi news channels highlighted their comments, which were tweeted by them on social networking sites.

Those who opposed, felt that force from the Government was not required on multiplexes, to show Marathi films at prime time. But none of the news reporters questioned such people, as to why  the multiplexes were given special concessions ,including tax exemptions by the State Government ? Moreover, there is already a Government order issued in 2010, asking all the multiplexes to compulsorily show a Marathi film, for fixed number of days in a year. But, it was not implemented strictly. Therefore, a debate on this issue was not necessary. In fact, our Marathi news channels should have pointed out, how in Southern India, this rule was strictly implemented in multiplexes, to show local regional films. Surprisingly, our multiplexes are allotting shows to other regional language films. Isn’t that an injustice on Marathi cinema ?

Anyway, on IBN Lokmat channel , we found good suggestions coming from invitees like Abhijit Panse, Aditya Sarpotdar, Gajendra Ahire & Sameer Dixit. But, there was no need to give importance to others, who were against the growth of Marathi cinema. Don’t think, the entire Bollywood is against  showing Marathi films at prime time. If it was so, why would some of the Bollywood film makers produce Marathi films ? It clearly indicates that there are good returns from Marathi films, if the film receives proper distribution. Besides making the prime time shows compulsory at multiplexes, in major cities of Maharashtra, there is also an urgent need to start showing Marathi films, at drama theatres or halls in  small  towns at other district places. And, this issue certainly needs a debate.

It is also high time that our own TV entertainment channels come in support of award winning and quality Marathi films, by acquiring  their satellite rights and showing them to home viewers. If you offer something good to the Marathi home viewers, they will develop a taste towards good quality cinema. And, Mayboli & Star Pravah Channels , have already started showing good quality and award winning Marathi films.

On Sunday, Star Pravah showed one such mind blowing film ‘Ek Cup Cha’ starring  Kishore Kadam, Sunil Sukhtankar, Mrunmayee Deshpande , Padmanabh Bind, Ashwini Giri and others. It was certainly a film with a strong message on importance of existing RTI act and how a ST Bus conductor taking help of it, to fight injustice on him, by the electricity Board. Thanks to Sumitra Bhave and Sunil Sukhtankar for making such a wonderful film. Unfortunately, this film was not released in Mumbai. But, at least, Mumbaikars and people from other places in Maharashtra could view it, on their TV sets. Thanks to Star Pravah channel once again.

Television
TV Watch

Live telecast or Limited telecast?

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Television

Last week, on an invitation from MNS chief Raj Thackeray, many celebrities from Mumbai had responded, by taking part in a debate on proposed ‘Mumbai Development Plan’ by the state government. It was called a non political debate. Almost all Marathi news channels started showing the Live Telecast of the so called meeting, attended by prominent personalities like Aamir Khan, Salman Khan, Farhan Akhtar, Javed Akhtar, Salim Khan, Riteish Deshmukh, Bharat Dabholkar, Dilip Vengsarkar, well known architect and town planner P.K.Das and many other artistes from Marathi entertainment industry.

But, after the introductory speech of Raj Thackeray, Mr. P. K. Das was called upon to brief the participants, on how wrong was the proposed plan. But, surprisingly, the so called live telecast, was suddenly stopped by all these channels. Later, when some of the channels showed the reactions of the celebrities, it became clear that they were in agreement with what Mr.  P. K. Das had said. But, what P. K. Das said about the plan, was not known to the viewers. But, through the statements made by some celebrities, it became clear that they had opposed the proposed plan, especially the construction of car shed in city’s green belt in Aarey Colony.

In fact, what Mr. P.K.Das’ presented through visual display on screen and what he had suggested, was disclosed by other news websites later; but, the TV news viewers were deprived of this most important speech of Mr. Das. Instead of showing his speech, the news channels gave preference to the news on AAP party politics, which was not so relevant to people in Mumbai and Maharashtra. And, that was a big disappointment for the Marathi TV viewers.

Sometimes, while watching the advertisements of Hindi TV programmes on some Marathi channels, we fail to understand, why such programme ads are shown on Marathi channels? It is a clear indication that the Hindi entertainment channels are trying to invite more and more new Marathi viewers, to see their programmes too ? If it is so, then our Marathi entertainment channels, will have to offer quality entertainment, so as to retain their viewership .

With the new colorful look taken by an existing Marathi channel, our Grand old Doordarshan’s Sahyadri channel is also preparing to make its presence felt. It is understood that Mr. Mukesh Sharma has till date, successfully managed to introduce many new interesting Marathi entertaining programmes. And, they are receiving good response, to some of these programmes which were introduced during the past few months. But, now the news is that something more interesting will be offered by the national channel, for Marathi viewers. So, do switch on to this channel too, for a change.

 

etv colors, marathi, channel
TV Watch

‘Colors’ begins new chapter in Marathi from 23rd March

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After official launch of the channel on auspicious Gudi Padwa day, ‘Colors Marathi’ has begun its  Marathi chapter from 23rd March 2015. On Sunday  22nd March evening, the channel offered variety entertainment , with telecast of MICTA awards event , which was held in Dubai, last month.  Surprisingly, the new channel will continue with some old serials of ETV. However, three new serials/shows have been added like ‘Aamchya Gharaat Sunbai Joraat‘, ‘Majha Hoshil ka’, and ‘Sakhi‘. There are many new young faces noticed in these new serials, though some of the veteran actors are also seen in character roles. We only  hope that these three new serials,  will offer something more interesting, if they need to stay in competition with other Marathi channels.

Colors Marathi TvOn Sunday 22nd March ‘Mayboli’ channel offered two sensible movies ‘Khel Mandala’ in the afternoon and ‘ Ankaganit  Anandache’ in the evening. For home viewers, it was a great satisfaction of watching these two films. Thanks to Viju Mane and Girish Kolapkar for offering  variety, through these films. Hope to see many more such films, on this channel.

In  ‘Jayostute’on Star Pravah, we are watching all those happenings in this serial, which we notice in all those Hindi serials, on the style of Yash Chopra film weddings. For the past four –five episodes, there is nothing but, preparations and celebrations going on, for lead character Pragati’s marriage, like Sangeet(Music )programme, offering  enough scope to Priya Marathe to dance on the tunes of popular songs with her ‘would be‘and also former Boss, in a dream sequence. It was so much of time wasting in this serial;  which otherwise offered some interesting stories of court cases, fought by the leading lady in the court. It is almost like saying ‘goodbye‘  to give justice to deserving people. Anyway, it seems that this serial  is now deprived of  more interesting stories to offer.

Last week, during the week end, there  was a talk going on among few ladies at a Public place, as to why Janhavi was taking so much of time, to inform her husband, that she was pregnant. And, one of them quickly  said, “The makers of this serial wanted to just drag on this issue, till world cup cricket was over, as they very well knew that even those who follow this serial, were not going to watch it, during this period. And, this comment was certainly worth taking note of, as many other serials did the same, during the past one month”. So, don’t be surprised, if you notice the leading stars of some of these serials, singing or dancing on popular songs, for next 5 days.

Gudi Padwa, Star Pravah
TV Watch

Star Pravah is banking on ‘Chaitra Chahool’

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Come ‘Gudi Padwa’ and Marathi entertainment channels get ready to offer something new to the home viewers. In this race, Star Pravah is getting ready to offer variety, through their entertaining programme, suitably titled ‘Chaitra Chahool’ . At least, the promos of this programme indicate that it is going to offer good entertainment. So, all eyes on 21st March at 6.30 pm on Star Pravah channel.

Gudi Padwa, Star PravahThe first look of this programme, shown in trailer, gives an impression that they have honoured some well known personalities like Bharat Dabholkar, Neena Kulkarni and Ravi Jadhav with much deserved ‘Pravah Ratna’ awards. Even otherwise, Star Pravah is gearing up to face the competition, with the arrival of ETV’s new Colourful look; with the introduction of two new serials ‘Priti Pari Tujavari’ and ‘Tu Jivala Guntavave’. But, that’s not enough. Though their two serials ‘Lakshay’ and ‘Jayostute’ are doing well, they have to think something big, instead of continuing with the outdated subjects.

Talking about the competition, Zee Marathi has already made a good beginning, in March, with their Brand new serial ‘Dil Dosti Duniyadari’ targeting the young generation and selecting the best suited time for them to telecast this serial, i.e. 10.30 pm. This serial, produced by Filmmaker Sanjay Jadhav and directed by Vinod Lavekar, has Amey Wagh , as the only known face . While there are two star daughters namely Swanandi Tikekar and Sakhi Gokhale , daughters of Uday ( Babaji fame ) Tikekar & Aarti Anklikar Tikekar and Shubhangi Gokhale respectively.

ETV, which is soon changing to Colors, have started new serial ‘Majhiya Mahera’ in February . Even this serial is yet to pick up popularity; but, the new actress Nakshatra Medhekar, looks pretty and shows promise. By the way, Rajan Bhise, who plays Suruchi Adarkar’s father in ‘Ka Re Durava’ is seen as Nakshtra’s father in this serial. Does that mean, that he is taking a break from ‘Ka Re Durava’, finally approving Suyash Tilak’s business proposal , after humiliating him to give credit to his daughter. Hope, this new serial’s story turns interesting in near future.

etv colors, marathi, channel
TV Watch

E-TV to turn ‘Colors Marathi’ soon

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etv colors, marathi, channelThe big news on Marathi Small Screen entertainment is that Viacom 18, which is a big media company in entertainment field, will be taking over ETV under their new banner Colors -Marathi. As a result of this, from the coming Gudhi Padwa day, we will find Marathi entertainment turning more colourful. On the very next day of their launch, Colors-Marathi will present a big awards event, which was sponsored by them outside India.

On the other side, Zee Marathi channel is all set to present their new serial ‘Dil Dosti Duniyadari’, which is targeted at young audience. This new serial is about six friends Kaivalya, ashutosh, Sujay, Aana ,Minal & Reshma. The serial is produced by popular cinematographer-director Sanjay Jadhav’s ‘Dreaming Twenty  Four Seven’ company and is all set to air on 9th March at a new time 10.30 pm. Vinod Lavekar is the director of this serial.

By the way, if Zee Marathi has to compete with new programmes expected to be offered by Colors-Marathi, it has to seriously think about  new subjects during prime time. It is high time to say goodbye to serials like ‘Honar Sunn Mi Hya Gharchi’ and ‘Julun Yeti Reshimgathi’ as both these serials have failed to appeal during the past few weeks.

On the eve of International Women’s day, DD-Sahyadri presented a very good informative programme ‘Hello Sakhi’, in which we saw Meghana Erande sharing her valuable experience in the field of Voice over and dubbing. Meghana appealed to all newcomers to train themselves in this field, as career wise it was a good option.  According to her, for all those aspiring actors, knowledge of Voice Over and dubbing, is a must.

On TV 9 Marathi, we saw actress Kranti Redkar expressing  her frank views on women’s rights. “I am myself fighting for my rights against a media company, filing defamation case against them. Every month I go and attend the hearing, because I feel that no one should take a woman for granted,” she said. When asked for a message to other women, she said, “Every woman has to strike a balance. On the contrary, If she is too much submissive, she cannot do justice to herself.”

TV Watch

No effect of Cricket on Marathi programmes

icc-world-cupPeople in Maharashtra seem to have lost interest in cricket, ever since the retirement of Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar from Cricket. This is at least true in the case of women folks, who take no interest in watching cricket on television now days. Few years ago, there used to be discussions among young and middle aged women, during the World Cup Cricket. But, now we hardly hear anyone gossiping in trains, buses and public places about cricket. Instead, ladies still continue to speak about their favourite serials and TV artistes.
Even otherwise, with so many new teams and no competition noticed from them, watching these cricket matches, that too eight hours continuously during the daytime on television, is not possible for even cricket lovers today.
There is hardly anyone talk about their favourite Janhavi in ‘Honar Suun Mi Hya Gharchi’ , Even if somebody speaks, it is about her changed attitude. Even Meghana of ‘Julun Yeti Reshimgathi’ doesn’t seem to interest the regular viewers. Their favourite today is Aditi played by Suruchi Adarkar. It is her character, which inspires young and old today. Is that not enough hint for others to either say good bye or bring in some positive change in the story ? Simply dragging the serial for too long, is like taking the viewers for granted.
Recently, on the occasion of World Marathi day, we saw writer Aruna Joglekar and actress Rohini Hattangadi, speaking on the topic of ‘Woman in Marathi Serials’ . And, they too hinted that the viewers should not be taken for granted. “Creativity is lost, if there is interference from marketing team of the serial,” was the opinion of film maker Virraj Raje; while one Marathi film Journalist openly stated that the woman characters in the Marathi serials were utterly unrealistic . Is this not enough, for our makers of Marathi serials?
During the past week, we saw the return of Shivani Surve through a new serial ‘Tu Jivala Guntavave’ on Star Pravah at prime time. But, this serial has failed to capture the desired attention of viewers. Perhaps the selection of lead actor Prasad opposite Shivani, doesn’t match well with her, as he had earlier played a villain, in previous serial. Also, Apoorva , who plays the sister in law of the hero in this serial, had played leading lady in previous serial. In short, the casting in this serial is not very appealing. Even the story of this serial is not very gripping at this initial stage. It all remains to be seen, how it progresses further. Hope it does well, as we would like to see something different from Shivani, this time.

In the meanwhile, we are watching most of the serials getting ready to catch up with the festival of colours. So, you will notice all these serials celebrating the festival.