The Role of Tabla in Indian Reality Television After 2000 and Its Positive Impacts

Abstract

This study examines the positive impact of the Tabla, in Indian reality programs produced after the year 2000. The focus is on the featured/solo performances of Tabla as well as the performances in which Tabla is as accompaniment instrument in musical orchestra of the selected episodes. The main objective is identifying the impact of Tabla on the Indian reality TV programs after year 2000 in relation to cultural heritage, method of teaching and responses on the audience. By using purposive sampling, the study identifies and analyzes certain episodes of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa, Indian Idol and India’s Got Talent in which the performances on Tabla were featured. These featured performances on Tabla were either solo/individual performances or part of the whole musical orchestra of the show. The study has been carried out by means of thematic and discourse analysis and it discusses the cultural symbolism, the pedagogical narratives and the reactions of the audience. The study reveals that the tabla is not only an instrument but also a cultural symbol and by linking up Hindustani classical music with today’s audiences. The study finds that the tabla regenerates interest for the heritage as well as for the much traditional guru-shishya parampara which is brought to life by the reality shows. These reality TV shows not only help in discovering talent but also support in the career of a musician. The tabla player on these reality TV shows functions as cultural ambassadors. They defend classical heritage, promote music and present Indian classical music on a global platform.