Such are the binary paradigms within which a woman s role is subscribed till date by our society. The only thing that such contradictory descriptions have in common is that they are both clich d and that the standard of measurement used is that of men. Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi. What we see in such works is nothing but a hierarchical and patriarchal set up that perpetuates stereotypes.
Cultural conditioning is the means by which injustices against women are perpetuated and sustained.
Unfortunately for us, the media instead of fighting such sex role stereotyping serves to further reinforce them thus becoming a part of the problem instead of helping us fight them. One doesn t need to be an avid TV viewer to realise the truth of what is being referred to. Almost every channel has its own rendition of the eternal family saga, a variant on the basic theme of a joint family presided over by a Maaji or a Babuji and the trials and tribulations therein with the eventual triumph of tradition. Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi and Kahaani Ghar Ghar Kii, Zee has Amanat , while Sony has Kanyadan and Ghar Ek Mandir . However it is Star Plus, intent on wooing the desi audience, that leads the way.