MUMBAI: If one were to chart the evolution of Hindi general entertainment in India, it would begin with Doordarshan. The genesis of small screen programming and its many and varied offshoots can all be traced back to the state-owned TV network. From depicting the struggles and aspirations of the emergent Indian middle-class, to socially conscious programs, the birth of the Indian soap opera, and the migration of viewers to newer channels with peppier programming, DD has seen it and withstood it all.
As the nation became rapidly globalised, small screen directors started deviating from the melodramatic saas-bahu sagas to create something better, for a more discerning audience. A resurgent Doordarshan has started “weekend premiere programmes” on DD National that seek to tell stories with a difference. One such new series – Phir Subah Hogi –, produced & directed by Pinku Biswas, is striking chords with viewers for all the right reasons. The show have got accolades because of its variations and production quality and is flying high with a slot in the ‘top ten programmes’ within the flagship channels of DD. According to BARC viewership data, the serial clocked the maximum viewership amongst all weekend premiere shows of DD and one of the top five shows of DD national.Phir Subah Hogi is produced by ‘Ayanaa Cinematics’.
Launched on 19 September 2020, Phir Subah Hogi examines the serious issue of malpractices in India’s medical sector. The plot revolves around Anupama, played by Shalini Vishnudev, a doctor with an indomitable will and a wish to live life to the fullest, while going against the tedious norms imposed on her by society. Armed with a strong moral compass, she aims to eliminate corruption, malpractices and other evils that are still rampant in many parts of India.
Unlike conventional ‘heroines’ in Hindi serials, Anupama is bold, outspoken and believes in making her own way. She chooses to serve local people by opting for the noble profession of a doctor. She is openly critical of cases of misconduct in the medical profession, and goes to the extent of fighting against the goons who hoard or supply spurious medicines. The show also reminds us to value the doctors and hospital staff who are trying to save our lives. More importantly, the series emphasises on the importance of imparting proper education to women so they can be financially independent and gain respect and dignity. It also highlights social concerns like dowry, domestic violence and illiteracy. With a firm focus on the lived reality of women in India, the story follows various ups and downs in Anupama’s life and the way she deals with them.
The cast and their natural acting, the camera work, tight direction and background score add to the overall high quality of production. Biswas has envisaged an out-of-the-box concept and is executing it skilfully with complete sincerity. The show is hard-hitting while simultaneously playing on the emotions of its viewers, and even as it presents a contemporary and progressive outlook, it’s rooted in family values. No surprise then, that it trends on social media whenever a new episode is telecast.
Phir Subah Hogi provides renewed hope to many middle-class girls who aspire to stand on their own feet and make a difference in the society they live in. Without being blindly idealistic, the show depicts the experiences of career-oriented members of the fairer sex, the challenges they face and the sacrifices they must make – something that has been true for a while now and will resonate with the modern woman.
Phir Subah Hogi airs every weekend on DD National from 8:30-9 pm.
