Hello everyone,
As most of you regulars know, I am not Indian but 4th generation South African of Indian origin. I am very much Indian at heart and have been fairly exposed internationally, which provides me with a very holistic and practical view of the world. I catch BALH on DSTV here (cable TV) and I have been an ardent fan since the beginning of the serial. My lifestyle and existence otherwise, allows for the following of one serial only and I categorically made BALH the show of choice. I chose BALH from the other hordes of serials because of its unique storyline for an Indian soapie, the almost real-life characterisation of the protagonists (no heavy make-up, jewellery and outrageous garb) as well as the time slot when I am winding down from a hectic day.
Now, to my point of discussion – the international view on the "Big C" night in BALH:
I must admit, when I first saw the promo, I was pleasantly surprised. I thought that finally India is coming of age with the portrayal of a love story which is as close to reality than I have ever seen before. In the event of a personal union on the small screen, we were previously subjected to a nonsensical display which generally consisted of unnervingly contrived and suggested visual analogies to express the nuptial union. In my opinion, I did not find the BALH consummation promo offensive or distasteful whatsoever; I really enjoyed and appreciated the almost realistic approach to displaying a sincere moment of togetherness. The depiction in the promo was so skilfully managed that it displayed the panache and sophistication that would compare directly to its global counterparts of soapies. I know that this is going to be difficult to believe, but the lovemaking episode itself was somewhat lukewarm for me at the beginning (with Priya repeatedly avoiding Ram's attempts at kissing her on the lips), but eventually progressed into a well-paced and normal display of affections. Intimacy involves hugging, touching and kissing and is all part of physically revealing the emotional aspect of affection. What's so wrong about that, especially if it shown respectfully within the confines of marriage? I am still highly confused as to what is indeed offensive to all those complaining across social forums about the exceedingly unpleasant display of Ram and Priya's affection on their big night. It was neither explicit, nor obscene and certainly not disrespectful. I loved the style and class in which the episode and the final act of love were illustrated. It contained the grace and refinement that would leave many a director in awe at the execution of perfection. It is almost as if the people who are complaining ignored the forewarning of the promo and expected the fictitious symbolism of flora and fauna as usual. Why are they so desperately trying to avoid the stark reality that loving your significant other physically is contained in everyday existence? Why are they discrediting Ram Kapoor and Sakshi Tanwar for portraying this as realistically as possible? On the contrary, we should collectively be proud of Ekta Kapoor and all those responsible for taking Indian television to new and unchartered heights.
Here's to the BALH team from your international audience – we appreciate your work, congratulations and compliments on a job well done.
Shiv Shakti
