While we have already looked at the content in reality TV in Australia and India separately, sometimes it is easier to see the differences in content side by side. So here’s the breakdown:
As we can see, the content in reality TV shows in Australia is quite different than the reality shows in India. The content in each country is reflective of the cultural values.
When we look at Australia, we see the culture is reflected in the content of the reality shows. Australian identity is embedded in individualism and self-indulgence. This makes sense as to why they have multiple shows of individuals exploring love and relationships as well as actively involved in competition.
Funding and ownership also reflect upon the differences in the content of these reality TV shows. When looking at Australia, we see a privately owned media system that essentially lies directly in the hands of Rupert Murdoch and John Fairfax. Murdoch and Fairfax fund their media corporations largely off advertising. Advertisers seek out channels that will reach not only their target audience, but also have the greatest reach. Consequently, the look to advertise between the programs of shows that drive up network ratings. Murdoch and Fairfax therefore use shows with content that is culturally relevant and will attract the largest audience. In their case, they play to people’s individualistic needs, thrill of competition, art and diversity as well as self-indulgence.
This video clip below further elaborates on this.
Then we look at India. India does not have reality TV shows that revolves around dating or marriage. Culturally speaking, India holds the union of marriage in a high position and believes it is to be respected. Using a reality show that promotes dating around and multiple romances would contradict this message. Similarly, India’s collectivistic attitude leads to the content of reality shows promoting ideas that will better the country as a whole – such as finding the next best chef for everyone of the country to benefit from. Dance is a huge aspect of Indian culture, so having an identity in this reality TV category of dance makes sense.
This is where the battle of ownership of media comes into effect and why there are many reality TV shows with the same content in India. Indian broadcasting is also funded by advertising, therefore, the multiple private owners are looking to bring in advertising dollars by using reality shows with the content that is most pertinent and representative of the people of a country. This is why dance shows are so popularized and using celebrities is a common theme. Advertisers know the largest audiences will watch these shows.
This clip below further elaborates on this.