Television shows that broke common stereotypes, challenging societal orthodox
Television shows have a lot of influence on people in India and often become a reason to adapt to new changes in society. We are all aware of our narrow-minded society, which is caged by its pre-defined beliefs. Viewers are offered enough shows that are change-bringing and come forward to challenge the stereotypes created by society. You can see the makers turning from cliche to a practical and realistic approach while making their shows and characters.
Today, we bring you some Indian Television shows that challenge societal norms by breaking common social stereotypes.
“You don’t need to stop dreaming in middle age.”— Anupamaa
Television’s currently popular show Anupamaa, which consistently tops the TRP charts, has broken many female stereotypes set by society. It breaks the belief that a woman’s world is far more than the house’s kitchen and family. It was thought every middle-aged woman should break free, take a stand for herself, and pursue her dreams. It also disproved the notion that women should not marry after a divorce in their forties.
Rupali Ganguly’s journey as Anupama is surely inspiring to many such middle-aged, separated women who follow this Television show.Â
“Love has no gender.”—Shakti Astitva Ke Ehsaas Ki
This was among the most impressive shows I watched on television. Rashami Sharma’s Shakti Astitva Ke Ehsaas Ki, starring Rubina Dilaik as Soumya, a transgender woman, gained a lot of headlines during its telecast.
This show broke the ugly stereotype of society and taught that love has no gender but is the purest connection between two hearts. A straight man’s love story with a transgender was beautifully portrayed, hoping for a positive change in the community. How Harman accepts Soumya for who she is and fights for their love, radiating discrimination and seeking equal respect for her, is really heart-touching.
“Marriage can’t block your ambitions.”—Tamanna
This is a perfect example for people who think marriage will stop them from achieving their dreams. It follows the story of a girl named Dhara who aspires to become a cricketer, but her dreams fade after she suddenly gets married. After being in a troubled marriage with a narrow-minded man, she divorces him and once again decides to accomplish her dreams.
Dhara sets an ideal example of how women can live by themselves and progress without any male support. With a simple question: Is there an expiry date for women’s dreams? —This Television show left us speechless. It attempted to break the stereotype that a woman has to forget her dreams after getting married.
“Age is just a number.”—Kuch Toh Log Kahenge
Sony TV’s 2011 drama Kuch Toh Log Kahenge had a plot that forced me to watch it. Well, we all know that the channel has always come up with some realistic dramas. Kuch Toh Log Kahenge was one of them and showed the love story of two people with a huge age gap. Currently, we are seeing something similar in Star Bharat’s currently airing show, “Na Umra Ki Seema Ho.” However, KTLK remains my favourite.
This concept taught us that age is just a number and you can choose someone you truly love regardless of his or her age.
“Karma is far above blind religious beliefs.”—Ek Aastha Aisi Bhi
Well, I can’t forget to mention this, as I strongly support the concept. With a very unique concept, this show left a lasting impression even in its short run. The plot revolves around Aastha, an orphan girl who is agnostic and believes in good karma rather than preaching lifeless god idols.
It was fascinating to see what happens after she marries in a religious family. Instead of helplessly running to the temple and asking for help from God, Aastha was a determined girl who resolved all the problems with her knowledge and intellect.
“Who says a woman can’t drive an autorickshaw?”—Saavi ki Savaari
Some people still feel it’s weird if a female is an autorickshaw driver. Saavi ki Savaari debunks the myth that women can’t do it. It tells the story of a 21-year-old girl who drives an auto to support her family and complete her studies.
“Ki and Ka is normal” —Mrs. Tendulkar
This is the typical mindset in many houses even today. You must have seen Arjun Kapoor and Kareena Kapoor’s Ki and Ka, and it’s somewhat similar. Its plot centres centre the Tendulkar family, which becomes the centre of attention and gossip among neighbours. This is because the female character, Vibhavari, is a working woman, and her husband, Suhas, is a homemaker. The couple attempts to change the narrow-minded opinions of society by breaking gender roles with a fun-filled comedy.
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