What is common among Saanchi (Pooja Sharma) from Ruk Jaana Nahi, Gopi (Giaa Manek) ofSaath Nibhana Saathiya, Khushi (Sanaya Irani) of Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon?, Megha (Aakansha Singh) inNa Bole Tum Na Maine Kuchh Kaha, Ambi (Preeti Chaudhary) of Kairi - Rishta Khatta Meetha, Pooja (Kamna Ranawat) of Sapno Ke Bhanwar Mein, Meenakshi (Ojaswi Oberoi) of Aasmaan Se Aage, Jhanvi aka Sia (Sriti Jha) in Dil Se Di Dua...Saubhagyavati Bhav, Monya (Priyal Gor) in Dekha Ek Khwab and Mona (Mona Singh) in Kyaa Hua Tera Vaada, Krishna (Mitali Nag) inAfsar Bitiya, Indira (Rati Pandey) of Hitler Didi, Archana (Ankita Lokhande) in Pavitra Rishta, Lovely (Ragini Nandwani) in Mrs Kaushik Ki Paanch Bahuein, Niyati (Jayshree Soni) in Rishton Ke Bhanwar Mein Uljhi Niyati and Aakash (Pankaj Tiwari) of Jhilmil Sitaaron Ka Aangan Hoga? Any guesses?Well, all these characters are representatives of middle class families on soapbox. The story lines of numerous shows on prime time television revolve around middle class families and thereby striking a chord with viewers. Their hopes, dreams, aspirations and most importantly struggles can make million eyes go wet. So, it's natural for GECs are all out to cash in on the great middle class dream.What makes the stories tick? ProducerHemal Thakkarsays, "It's a representation of hard working positive ethical India. The middle class make a difference to our country and these are the stories which revolve around 'hope' and positivity. And the best part of them is that in spite of all hardships and struggle, you don't see the middle class without a smile."Agrees producer Sudhir Sharma, "The middle class forms a big chunk of population as well as audiences. They have aspirations, dreams, determination and ambition to do well. Audiences relate to middle class sensibilities. Middle class folks represent the essence of hardships and aspirations which have huge connect. Soaps are a slice of real life and people love to see what they can identify with."Interestingly, to make hearts grow fonder and thereby score high on TRPs, economic hardships are now part of the bigger story-line.Ajit Thakur, general manager of a GEC says, "Middle class people comprise majority of the audiences. Even as they struggle in real life, they score high on honesty and ethics. They cherish life despite hurdles and that's what makes them a source of inspiration which is worth capturing in the form of story-telling."Actors who are playing these characters are appreciated by audiences. TV actorMitali Nag, says, "Playing a middle class girl in the show generates empathy. When the audience appreciates me, it adds smile to my face."As long as the sob-stories detailing the financial struggle, high dreams, morals are catered to, the TRPs are definitely going to shoot up. After all, everything's fair in the game of TRPs!
Source: Times of India
