There has always been a special and inseparable bond between women and the small wonder called television. And in most cases, this admiration is mutual. It is also an undeniable fact that women audiences constitute the majority, and propel the much-needed television rating points, and revenue which TV needs to survive. Unlike the silver screen which still predominantly runs on heroisms of a male-dominated industry, television stars are it’s women stars. Be it the attesose sagas, family dramas, reality shows, and so on, it is the female power which runs the entertaining mill. On International Women’s Day, Bengaluru Chronicle speaks to a few female stars on Kannada TV who are proponents of the progress of women.
In a majority of TV shows, soaps feature female artistes in the lead. While heroines in movies have a very limited shelf life, television gives these ladies an added advantage, irrespective of age. They simply rule the roost as long they choose to. It’s pure talent, and sustaining popularity which keeps them going.
The popular character Pratibha from Pattedari Pratibha, Kannada TV’s first-ever female detective is also a housewife. Actress Sharmila Chandrashekhar, who plays Pratibha says, “Power and empathy are two sides of the same coin, called woman. My role as Prathibha, balances it and has set an example for many.”
And speaking about women’s empowerment, “Women are no longer confined to the four walls, neither have they forgotten their role inside the house. My role as Prathibha is of a powerful, yet empathetic woman, who can balance work and life. We need more roles like Prathibha’s, who inspire us to keep going, come what may!” she adds.
Gundamma in a scene from Brahmagantu
TV’s current hot favourite teacher Janaki essayed by Chaitra Rao from Jodi Hakki, feels that 10 years ago, a typical serial heroine would be an ideal housewife and a soft character, who would weep throughout episodes. “Now, a heroine on TV stands up against injustice, fights back, and has control over her emotions. The media has played an important role in developing choices that have resulted in youngsters showing interest in television serials.”
Women power has grown exponentially, and has resulted in many popular actresses welcomed onto the silver screen with grand launches. More than 50 per cent of TV actresses’ are acting in films essaying lead and sensible roles. Women are no more just added glamour or typical housewives and vamps, TV also has turned to more sensible and sensitive portrayals. Gundamma from Brahmagantu has managed to touch hearts with her sensitivity. “If a woman learns to accept and love herself, she will gain strength to move past judgements and stereotypes. Similar to the character that I play – Gundamma, there have been instances in my life where I have been teased and mocked for my appearance. However, I have learnt to accept my body and make a stride towards becoming a confident person who is capable of achieving great success,” feels Geetha Bhat who plays Gundamma Geeta wraps up thankful for the progressive roles that have begun to emerge in the television industry.
