For several years now, Aamir Khan’s TV show Saytamev Jayate has discussed a range of problematic social issues that plague India. The three previous seasons have not only taken an in-depth look at various social issues but have also presented solutions and put into place certain initiatives to actually drive change. There are reports that Saytamev Jayate will return with its new season in January 2019. Here is what we know so far:
The first season aired in 2012 and marked the debut of Aamir Khan on TV. The first episode took on the rampant evil of female foeticide in India and then went on to look at child sex abuse, the big fat Indian wedding, intolerance for interfaith relationships, persons with disabilities, domestic violence, toxic chemicals in food and alcohol abuse. The show also examined the vestiges of untouchability that still exists in India in this day and age, the issues that seniors face, the water crisis as well as a look at the idea of India.
Each episode was obviously very thoroughly researched and brought forward some often horrific stories as well as inspiring ones about people who were committed to bringing about positive change. Season aired in 2014 and explored issues such as fighting rape, the role and image of the police in our society, about repurposing garbage and the criminalisation of politics. One episode tilted Kings Every Day also attempted to promote the idea that it isn’t enough for citizens to merely vote but also to become involved in the decision making processes that matter to them.
This season aired later in 2014 and first episode examined how a Ball can Change the World; why sports associations should be run by competent sportspersons and not bureaucratic officials. The episode Road Accidents or Murders examined chaotic Indian roads and the need to have better laws in place for protecting all including pedestrians. The show also tackled health issues relating to mental health and the serious issue of TB in the country.
Apart from tackling grim realities of female infanticide and the resultant poor gender ratio, the show also has examined issues such as alternative sexuality, to try to reduce the prejudice and ignorance that still exists with regard to this in our society. The last episode also examined the little discussed issue of how toxic masculinity is, harmful not just for women but for men as well.
In the time that the show has been off air, several initiatives such as the clean and green initiative, care for rape survivors, helping alcoholics, conservation of water, making healthcare affordable have been ongoing. Now several publications have reported that the TV show will return with the new season which will air in January 2019.
Reports suggest that the first episode will examine the ongoing #MeToo movement. This is an issue that has blown up into a huge movement in Bollywood; with many calling out A listers for remaining mum on the issue. While stars such as Amitabh Bachchan have refused to comment when questioned about Tanushree Dutta’s charges, Aamir Khan was known to respond by saying that her charges merited investigation. While the response was not as categorical as it should have been, it wasn’t a complete cop-out. Hopefully the new season will do justice to the many tales of horror that continue to tumble out in Bollywood as well as other spheres of our society.
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