Happy Weekend

The channel’s decision regarding KBC’s programming,however,didn’t come as a surprise to the industry as Hindi general entertainment channels (GECs) have been attempting to spruce up their weekend line-up with an eclectic mix of shows that might be at odds with the weekday programming.

The otherwise conservative Star Plus steered the revival of the Sunday morning slot with Aamir Khan’s Satyamev Jayate and has followed it up with Lakhon Mein Ek that tells stories of real people who fought back against injustice. In the evenings,their fictional characters step out of the kitchen — Arjun is a crime drama whereas Teri Meri Love Stories is a series of romantic telefilms. Zee has launched Ramayan in the mornings and Fear Files – Darr Ki Sachhi Tasveerein in the evenings. Colors,too,has tied up with Sahara to air music talent show Sur Kshetra. Rush,a series of independent yet interconnected stories,are MTV’s way of tapping the youth. The show,upon conclusion,will be replaced by 10-episode fiction,Bring On The Night.

“The gradual change in lifestyle and preferences of the families is changing entertainment patterns. They want extra zing in the shows,” explains Manisha Sharma,Weekend Programming Head,Colors.

Most of the GECs,therefore,are trying to build a steady weekend audience with shows across genres and demographics. “Movies don’t create loyal viewership and reality shows are high on cost. Fiction fills that gap,” says Bahl,referring to their mix of weekend programming with KBC and Crime Patrol.

The channels also want to tap into the men,youth and children,who are neglected over weekday primetime programming. “Teri Meri Love Stories is targeted at 15-24 years whereas Arjun will resonate with everyone,” Nachiket Pantvaidya,Head – Star Plus,had said in a previous interview to The Indian Express. Explaining Zee’s inclusion of Fear Files,the channel’s Fiction Programming Head says,“The audience looks for an easy escape over the weekend and horror shows engage accordingly.”

Reality shows fit in,says Motwani,because they offer a glimpse into the larger-than-life glamour world. Riding on the basic instincts of survival and hope,the reality shows offer drama,competition and entertainment. “The Dance India Dance finale helped boost our ratings a fortnight ago,” he points out.

The need for weekend programming has parallely revived another trend — there are shows with independent episodic content again. Bahl explains that the format is driven by the very nature of weekend programming. “You can’t expect the viewer to remember what happened last week and then follow up. This format therefore works well,” says Bahl.