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The Hindu
The Hindu
Comment
Nimra Ahmad

Shocking reality

Gone are the days of wholesome family viewing. Indian television screens are ablaze with a new breed of “entertainment” – reality shows. But are these shows truly reflecting reality, or are they instead warping the minds of our youth, cultivating intolerance, and breeding hate?

The answer, unfortunately, is tilted towards the latter. These shows often thrive on manufactured drama, pitting contestants against each other in a cutthroat struggle for fame and fortune. Backstabbing, manipulation, and even physical aggression become accepted forms of “entertainment,” normalizing toxic behaviour for impressionable young viewers. The lines between competition and outright cruelty blur, leading to a decrease in tolerance for differing opinions and perspectives.

In recent years, Indian reality shows have become a cultural phenomenon, captivating audiences with their drama, emotion, and fierce competition. While these shows have undoubtedly entertained millions, there is a growing concern about their impact on the youth, as they are contributing to a decrease in tolerance levels, the rise of hate toxicity, and the creation of divisive fan wars on social media platforms.

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