Avoid racially insensitive content

Recently, a local television channel aired a telefilm called Chobir Proticchobi, which I later watched on YouTube. What particularly drew my attention was that the film featured two actors of African descent, who were referred to using the "n-word." I do not understand how in this day and age derogatory terms such as this are allowed to be used on a public platform. True, racism isn't a big issue in Bangladesh and most of us aren't even aware of how bad it can be in the more advanced countries, but shouldn't the scriptwriters have at least researched before putting it out there? The film also featured two well-known Bangladeshi social media stars. What worries me is that their presense might have the effect of endorsing and promoting objectionable and racially insensitive remarks.

I think it's high time we stopped making telefilm to cater to a specific group of audience. There are many talented and seasoned actors, writers and directors in our media industry and their talent and knowledge should be utilised when producing content. In any case, social media stars, who hanker after instant fame, are not the best people when it comes to representing our society.

Zinath Jahan, By e-mail