The author of the book titled Prime Time Soap operas on Indian television visited the set of Bidaai. The author presented the book to Sara Khan and producer Rajan Shahi, and spoke about how Bidaai was a source of inspiration during her research for the book, and how she follows the show and loves it.
This is the first book to examine prime time soap operas on Indian television. It proposes that this particular genre of popular culture provides important resources for insights into contemporary social issues and practices. Closely examining the following prime time soaps- Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, Kahaani Ghar Ghar Kii, Kasautii Zindagi Kay, Saat Phere. Saloni Ka Safar, and Rajan Shahi’s Sapna Babul Ka Bidaai- the book analyzes how prime time soaps work as flagship programs and brands for television channels. While influenced by a variety of sources, both from India and the West, the author dwells on the distinctive features of Indian prime time soaps and their production styles and values. The book also analyzes narrative structures of soaps in the context of their fractured and never-ending time frames and plot outlines. The book explores the centrality of family; the importance of parivaar aur parampara (family and tradition); themes of ‘Indian-ness’; and constructions of femininity and masculinity in prime time soap discourses.
Much has been written on constructions of femininity in texts of popular culture. There is a general tendency to dismiss constructions of femininity in soaps as ‘regressive’. Examining soaps as sites of contestation, the author takes up how women in soaps are constructed as strong women; and how their powerful representation comes from the contradictory demands made of them by their central role in the family and the manner in which soaps’ narrative action calls for spectacle and glamour. The author analyzes how such representational ideals challenge accepted wisdom about women’s roles and responsibilities, particularly within the context of joint families; and suggests that while soaps may help maintain the status quo, they also work positively in influencing attitudes and behaviors.
Meticulously researched and persuasively argued, the book tracks how prime time soaps in India have made the small screen a big medium in reaching out to people. Written in an accessible, jargon free style, the book never sacrifices academic disciplinary rigor. It is of interest to students of anthropology and sociology, media and cultural studies, visual culture studies, gender and family studies, and also Asian studies in general. In addition, the book is an important resource for media producers, both in content production and television channels; as well as a general readership.
