Reality TV covers a broad spectrum of topics, from quiz game shows to singing competitions. Culture, therefore, plays a large role in the kinds of reality shows that each country chooses to show. For an understanding of the types of reality shows each country displays, here’s a brief background on Australian and Indian culture. The diverse cultures and histories of these countries interested me into understanding what makes the content of their reality shows so different and provide a better way to understand them when comparing them.
Australia:
Population: 22,507,617
Language: No official language, but English is most widely spoken
Capitol: Canberra
Location: Sits between the Indian Ocean and South Pacific Ocean
Education: 99% Literacy Rate
History: Australia is the only country that is also its own continent. Add to that, it is also an island. It began as an island inhabited by all aboriginal people speaking over 250 languages. These diverse people lived all over the island, from the snow capped mountains to the outback. In the late 1700s into the early 1800s, British settlers began invading the island and exploiting the aboriginal people. In 1850, gold was discovered on the island, attracting even more British and Chinese settlers to the island. By 1901, Australia was established as a single nation under the reign of Britain. Following the Second World War, Australia began to grow more independent and tried to pull away from Britain, resulting in a massive change to their political, economic and social atmosphere. Today, Australia continues to pull away from Britain and operate on its own political system.
Culture: Australian culture is heavily immersed in the arts, sport and humor. It is similar to the Western style of culture, with a heavier outlook on individualism and self-indulgence. Australia is a highly diverse land, with multiple languages always being spoken and many ethnicities present on the island.
Below is a video highlighting some of Australia’s beautiful cultural elements.
India:
Population: 1,236,344,631
Language: Hindi and English
Capitol: New Delhi
Location: South Asia, bordering the Arabian Sea
Education: 62.8%
History: The history of India begins 75,000,000 years ago, with some of the first signs of modern human life. The Indus Valley was one of the first major civilizations in Southern Asia. A technologically advanced civilization grew out of this area, and saw the teaching of Gautama Buddha. Over a period of time, different parts of India were ruled by various Middle Kingdoms, and in time saw the resurgence of Hinduism in what is known as the “Golden Age of India.” Following this, India went through a period of wars over religion and ownership of land, but out of this, came a shining period of a mathematically advanced nation. Large areas of India were taken over by Britain in the 1700s and 1800s during the trade exploitation of the British East India Trading Company. In 1947, India finally gained independence from Britain and divided into India and Pakistan. India’s history is characterized by a constant reforming of structures and adaptations due to outside influences in the political and economic sphere.
Culture: India is the birthplace of Hinduism and Buddhism. It has seen the over ruling power of various kingdoms and therefore it’s culture reflects this diversity. Indian culture is filled with vibrant festivals and arts. There is an absolute respect for marriage and an emphasis on collectivism within society. Food, sport and dance also play an integral role in Indian history and culture. Hard work is a key element to success within the country.
Below is a video highlighting some of India’s beautiful cultural elements.