In defence of Bangladeshi TV programmes

I have been watching Bangladeshi TV programmes in different channels from Canada for over a year and greatly appreciate the quality of the different serials, soap operas and other indigenous contents.

In spite of the low budget, compared to heavy investments on small screen in neighbouring India, the quality of the drama produced in Bangladesh is genuinely outstanding.

While most TV serials in India—whether Bengali or Hindi—are marked with overacting, expensive costumes, glamorous set designs, unnecessary make-up, irrational story lines and clueless direction, I found Bangladeshi dramas to be more realistic and captivating, with quality acting and direction and excellent story lines.

Some of the actors I have watched on screen are outstanding performers. What is most interesting about Bangladeshi dramas is that most actors have training in stagecraft that adds to the quality of the productions. In particular, the focus on rural Bangladesh is highly appreciable.

I would like to encourage local viewers in Bangladesh to support their TV industry and not rely too much on Indian programmes with little depth and quality and superficial pomp and grandeur.

Saikat Kumar Basu, Lethbridge, Canada