I wrote an article for an upcoming independent e-magazine called Indian Mutinies. Here’s the link to the edited version on their website

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At a recent family dinner, one of my older (and louder) uncles downed an entire whiskey glass in his hand before particularizing the state of the nation. “The biggest problem with the country is these news anchors on TV. For the sake of a few bloody rating points, these channels create mountains out of mole-hills”, he boldly expounded and continued. In another corner of the same room, I winced quietly at this generalisation. This wasn’t the first time someone shared a similar sentiment. There is no comparison between the sedate newsreaders of yesteryear with the current crop. However, I was uncomfortable at his ire being directed elsewhere.

As per my uncle, TV channels have compromised on their quality to pander to the gallery. For want of more “TRP” or “Television Rating Points”. His outburst got me thinking for the next few days.

When did the word “ratings” start such becoming a negative word? Why does a section of individuals, like my elderly uncle, feel that “ratings” are a bad thing?

As an employee of a multinational TV broadcasting company, I have the privilege of being witness to the use of ratings within the business. We are required us to pay close attention to these numbers since it forms the measurement basis of two key components – viewership & advertisers. In reality it translates into a series of mundane and cold calculation that is the daily work of so many office-goers. So what’s the fuss all about?

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