Spiritual Journalism and Indian TV Channels– A Review

Abstract

Spiritual Journalism is an evolving stream in Indian Journalism. In Print media, it is well on track. With regular columns and weekly supplement on spiritual content and special spiritual magazines, it is coming out of its infancy stage. The electronic media is also not far behind. With the advent of TV channels in late nineties, it came into existence. Though its origin can be traced back to the Ramayana and Mahabharta phase of DD serials. Today with about 500 channels there are about 50 channels exclusively dedicated for the spiritual and religious content. Some mainstream news and entertainment channels are also giving special slot to such programs.

The content being broadcasted by these channels is a matter of concern and study, when, the TV media is considered to be the powerful medium to influence the opinion and the psyche of mass audience and viewers. It is especially so, when the society and humanity as a whole is crossing through a phase of grave value crisis and stress. It is important to use the powerful media of TV as a tool of positive change. Its spiritual content on the basis of its sacred and subtler impact can play its decisive role in this context.

The present paper will discuss all these issues after analyzing the content being broadcasted by these channels and the reaction, feedback and the aspiration of its viewers. Also its potentials and challenges will also be discussed.