Aging and Indian Television: Mega-Serials in Tamil Nadu

• In Event: Civic TV: International Approaches to Audience, Industry, and Policy

Abstract

This qualitative, exploratory study examines issues of age and aging surrounding Indian television, specifically mega-serial (daily soap opera) production in Tamil Nadu. Two data sources are utilized: interviews with 25 members of the Tamil mega-serial industry and focus groups with 16 mega-serial viewers. Analysis yields two core themes: (1) broad issues of age and aging on Tamil mega-serials, including on-screen representation of older adults and elder-oriented storylines, and the role(s) of older actors and actresses in the mega-serial industry; (2) the aging of the industry itself and how industry changes have impacted both industry members and the viewing audience.

Author

• C. Lee Harrington, Miami U - Ohio