Why does Indian television primarily use rehashed foreign reality show concepts?

Indian television shows often rely on rehashed foreign concepts due to a long-standing trend of imitation, successful localization of humor and drama, and the strong appeal of popular hosts.

What is the concept of the new reality show 'The 50' in India?

'The 50' is an Indian adaptation of a French reality show where 50 celebrities are placed in a castle and compete through physically and mentally demanding rounds.

How do popular hosts influence the success of Indian reality shows?

Popular hosts like Amitabh Bachchan and Salman Khan significantly boost viewer engagement and ratings, acting as a major selling point for shows, even those based on borrowed concepts.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Indian TV's Reality Show Remix: Copy or Create?

Indian TV's Reality Show Remix: Copy or Create?

1 Feb

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Summary

Most Indian reality shows are imported or rehashed foreign concepts.
The 50 adapts a French format, featuring 50 celebrities from Bigg Boss.
Imitation fuels Indian TV success due to humour, drama, and star hosts.

Indian TV's Reality Show Remix: Copy or Create?

Indian television has a long-standing reliance on imported and rehashed reality show concepts, with original productions being a rarity. Shows like 'Wheel of Fortune India', hosted by Akshay Kumar, and the upcoming 'The 50', hosted by Farah Khan, exemplify this trend as adaptations of successful foreign formats.

'The 50' is an Indian version of the French show 'Les Cinquante' and will feature 50 celebrities in a castle in Mumbai. Notably, 27 of its contestants are drawn from various seasons of 'Bigg Boss', aiming to leverage the existing fan base of Salman Khan's popular show, which concluded recently.

This imitation strategy, prevalent since the early days of Bollywood, continues to thrive due to reasons like a lack of originality in foreign content, and the successful localization of humor, drama, and melodrama to suit Indian tastes. The strong presence of popular hosts, such as Amitabh Bachchan for 'Kaun Banega Crorepati' and Salman Khan for 'Bigg Boss', further enhances viewer engagement and ratings.

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