Opinion Telescope: News without noise
What general news channels could learn from business news anchors
Business news channels are precise and accurate when it comes to news. (file)
When Monday morning’s Breaking News screamed, “Pari-war” (India Today), little did anyone realise then that by the evening, the headline would apply to not one but two famous families. The “Explosive Exclusive” (CNN News 18) of Shivpal Yadav snatching away the microphone from nephew Akhilesh Yadav at the Samajwadi Party (SP) meeting in Lucknow, would also refer to the sudden removal of Cyrus Mistry as chairman of Tata Sons. And “The Big Pot Boiler”, “The Big Shake-Up” (ET Now) that shook the business world, was an apt way to describe the continuing upheavals in the SP.
Since the weekend, we have watched the riveting “Mahabharat” (CNN News 18) of the Yadav clan. Each time Mulayam Singh Yadav, the patriarch, his brother Shivpal or his son Akhilesh coughed, it immediately echoed in the news chambers. When Mulayam reportedly ordered A to “hug” S, it was instantly embraced by the news channels — “Hug Uncle: MSY to Akhilesh” emblazoned the screen (NDTV 24×7): Will he, won’t he? Tantalisingly, that hu(n)g in the balance.
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Like eavesdroppers, we listened in to the entire proceedings of the SP meeting on Monday — the heated exchanges between uncle and nephew, “the liar, liar/house on fire” moments — and saw a bit of the tussle for political supremacy via mobile phone grabs. Even as the news channels lined up for A Family At War, Ratan Tata and Cyrus Mistry took over the screen for the “Bitter Boardroom Battle” (CNBC 18).
It’s at times like these that you appreciate the business news channels. CNBC 18 and ET Now discussed the tectonic events at Bombay House (Tata’s HQ) with many business and legal experts — calmly. On Monday night, anchors/editors Shereen Bhan (CNBC) and Supriya Shrinate (ET Now) asked pointed questions (“Were you shocked by the way it was done? Does it leave a lot to be desired?”) and received straightforward answers (“Tata Sons is over and done with” — Anil Singhvi, ET Now); (“There was no focus (under Mistry)” — a 100 companies were “unmanageable” — Stanley Pignal, The Economist, CNBC TV 18).
Seems silly to say this but everyone was allowed to speak, mostly for as long as they wanted before follow-up queries. The discussions were intelligent, informative and even critical of India’s iconic company: Questions were asked, replies received and the viewer went away somewhat better informed than before. General news channels could learn many (good) lessons from these business news anchors. Now, if only they would.
In the faraway world of entertainment, Bigg Boss (Colors) returns with a new format, housing celebrities and “India wale” — members of the public. Not much to report thus far: The public seems more interesting than the celebrity participants, but if there’s one thing to ogle, it’s Salman Khan’s wardrobe. On Sunday, his jacket defied description — blue with pink flowers, butterflies — blobs?
Speaking of clothes, Sarah Jessica Parker’s signalled that she’s not Carrie Bradshaw and this is not Sex and the City; she’s Frances in the throes of a possible middle-aged Divorce from Robert (Star World Premiere). This one is long on the skirts, shirts, hair and dark humour. Try it out.
Also on Star World Premiere, Westworld. This is serious sci-fi: Set in a Western theme park filled with not just cowboys but synthetic androids who will “host” anyone willing to pay its price to play a “newcomer” guest. The newcomer can do whatever he/she likes in the park, with impunity. So a cowboy can slug bullets into you and you keep on walking. Bizarre, haunting. A star cast includes Anthony Hopkins, Ed Harris, James Marsden and Evan Rachel Woods. Check it out.
And welcome back Hugh Laurie (House). Yes, he’s a doctor here too but this time a forensic neuroscientist — whatever that means — who has an affair with a patient and faces the consequences. Seen one episode, so can’t say much except, here’s looking at you, Hugh.
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