Overkill of Reality Shows on MTV:

MTV India was known for the Crazy antics of the two Cyrus’, Broacha and Sahukar, the rap of Nikhil Chinappa, bubblyness of Shehnaz treasurywala and a host of other Video Jockeys (VJs) who anchored the different music shows. Currently MTV is synonymous with the bald twins, Raghu Ram and Rajiv Ram, who rule the roost as far as content of programming is considered on MTV.

‘Roadies’ was the first reality show on MTV. It was an instant success. Raghu was the face of Roadies whereas Rajiv was always behind the scenes, far from the prying eyes of the media. They both made 5 successful roadies seasons. During Roadies 6, Rajiv surprised everyone by his appearance i.e. the virtue of being Raghu’s look alike. Roadies’ season 6 was a success. By the time, Raghu had become so famous that audiences watched the selection round of contestants more than the actual Roadies show. His attitude, brashness, and aggressive demeanor are loved by the viewers especially when he rips apart the contestants. It isn’t about the sadistic pleasure for the viewers, it’s that way he slowly makes them confess things and then cross questions.

They made another show, MTV Splitsvilla whose 2 seasons were as successful as Roadies. Currently both the twins are producing a new show, MTV Connected which deals with the chemistry of twins. They seem to have a winner on their hands with this show. It is more since they have Raghu and Rajiv along with Nikhil as judge. The problem though seems to be of viewer fatigue. Raghu is all over the place on MTV. The reality shows have Raghu written all over it. ‘Expect the unexpected’ symbolizes the thinking process of Raghu. Therefore too much of similar stuff cannot be a good thing from future content point if view for MTV.

‘Unique Content’ is necessary on television in India at this point in time to be successful. Monotony should not set in. we can see what happened with the ‘saas-bahu’ series. They had to be pulled off air. Rather late according to me but atleast it’s off air, for good.

After this show, Raghu should take a long hiatus from MTV. This is the only way viewer fatigue can be avoided. Even if Raghu works backstage on a show, his imprint will be felt by viewers. It wouldn’t be a surprise since he is the one responsible for creating a ‘Cult’ of Roadies in India. Wearing that Roadies badge is considered an ultimate achievement in adventure.

Viewers should yearn and crave for Roadies. No one understands this psychology than Aamir Khan who does just one film a year. TRPs will shoot through the roof once new Roadies show will be announced after a long gap.

Care should be taken by MTV producers to rest the hen which lays the golden eggs. An overkill of Raghu would do more harm than good in the long run.