In the beginning of this new year, we saw a very good film ‘Natasamrat’, which presented a very sensible subject, reminding one and all about the morale values. And, this film received an overwhelming response. This indicates that people in Maharashtra, are keen to watch such subjects. But, are our Marathi TV serial makers taking any such steps, to pass a social message to home viewers ? There are lakhs of viewers of television in different age groups, scattered across Maharashtra.

Actually, Maharashtra is known as the land of saints, who offered teachings on morale values. Barring very few serials, most of the Marathi serials today, are sending across a wrong message to the society, presenting all such happenings, which are unethical practices.

Now, take for example the happenings in Zee Marathi’s ongoing TV serial ‘Nanda Soukhyabhare’. It is surprising to see, the behavior of Swanandi’s parents in law. One never expected to see them stoop so low. They even go to the extent of stealing the ornaments of their daughter in law and insulting her, by presenting her Sarees, which are supplied to an orphanage. The melodrama noticed between Swanandi’s mother in law and Vachhi- the match maker, also seems to be beyond convincing. In short, this serial is going from bad to worse.

Somewhat similar type of situation, was noticed in the TV serial ‘Runji’ on Star Pravah. This serial started off well. But later lost its track, to highlight the gimmicks of negative characters giving them more than required hype. ‘Colors’ channel is also nowhere behind, when it comes to showing all immoral happenings. Even the language used by some of the laughter shows, is very bad. A lot of liberty is being taken, in the name of comedy. Some of our news channels are also nowhere behind these entertainment channels. One channel was repeatedly showing a news clipping, where a cruel daughter in law was shown beating up her old helpless mother in law, mercilessly. Isn’t that passing a wrong message?

One really wonders, how, the makers of these serials, can take the viewers for granted ? Will our honorable Cultural Minister of Maharashtra, who is always prompt and active , take serious note of such happenings, noticed in such programmes.

By: Shweta Khot © MMW Network