DURING the holy month of Ramazan, the programmes one is likely to see on TV are shows that are specific to Ramazan. These programmes are similar in format irrespective of which channel it is.

The transmission of such shows usually starts a few hours before Iftar, and they go on during and even long after Iftar. The anchors of these shows are mostly famous showbiz personalities or the hosts of morning TV shows.

The Ramazan show trend has become so popular in the last few years that every television channel has got into the act. So much so that there is a fierce competition for TRPs, and a show’s producer can resort to bizarre gimmicks to stay in the race. Some of these antics can be offensive and bring protests from viewers.

It seems the TV channels have weaned the viewers away from a spiritual journey to a crass and at times perverse behaviour which is a far cry from the teachings of the holy month.

I would like to remind all and sundry that Ramazan enjoins us to contemplate and take stock of our lives. This beautiful month also instructs us to share our blessings with the less fortunate.

One hopes sanity prevails and the TRP ratings race is put on hold during the holy month.

Muzna Khan

Karachi

Published in Dawn, May 25th, 2017