Friday, July 31, 2009
Sach Ka Samna: Now face the truth!
New Delhi: The Delhi High Court has refused to release the order to stop airing of the controversial reality TV show ‘Sach ka Saamna’ on the plead that no one should have any problem if people are telling the truth in open should be hailed in more than one ways.
The decision is a body blow to the so-called moral policing elements who day in and day out speak about moral policing and act against everything that has any connection with the western world, be it friendship day celebration, valentines day, or anything they think is obscene.
They will on their own decide what is good for our culture.
On the other hand, the High Court order is a stern warning to those who file public interest litigation just on the drop of a hat, as if there are no major issues concerning the people in the country. This is a classic case of misuse of PIL.
Are these people blind, as they are not seeing far more serious problems in the country? Let them file PILs on black money, misuse of official powers, implementation of government schemes, etc.
Saying that moral policing is not its function, a division bench headed by Delhi High Court Chief Justice A P Shah suggested the petitioners to approach the central government over it.
“It is for the government to decide whether the programme should be banned or not. It is not the function of the court… There are far more serious problems in this country which we have to settle,” the bench said.
Two petitioners, Deepak Maini and Prabhat Kumar, had approached the court seeking a stay on the show being telecast on Star Plus channel alleging that the programme was against the values of the Indian society.
Rejecting it, the court said, “Our culture is not so fragile that it would be affected by one TV programme.” The court has rightly said so. I fail to understand how it can be against the values of the Indian society when someone chooses to tell the truth.
If anybody act against the values, what is wrong in accepting it in public. After all, we all stand by our Father of the Nation Mahatama Gandhi who had no qualms in admitting everything in public.
After all, there is no compulsion to view the programme or to participate in it. If you do not want to tell the truth don’t go and participate. If you do not want to watch it, simply switch the TV off.
For those who want to watch it, let them do it. It is their fundamental right
Truth can't harm, court says; dismisses plea against 'Sach Ka Saamna'
Citing India's 'high ethos' and 'rich heritage' and quoting Mahatma Gandhi, the Delhi High Court Wednesday dismissed the plea against the controversial reality TV show 'Sach ka Saamna' and stated that no one should have any problem if people are telling the truth in open.
A division bench of Chief Justice Ajit Prakash Shah and Justice Manmohan said, 'India is a land of rich heritage and high ethos and speaking truth is not harmful at all..... If someone wants to speak truth in public let him do so...'
Giving the example of the Father of the Nation, the bench also noted: 'If people are taking inspiration from Gandhi and then coming out and speaking the truth, we don't think there is anything wrong in the same.'
It also stated that courts have more important things to do than moral policing. 'It is for the government to decide whether the programme should be banned or not. It is not the function of the court... There are far more serious problems in this country which we have to settle.'
It asked the petitioners, Deepak Maini and Prabhat Kumar, to approach the central government with their plea.
The petitioners had approached the court seeking a stay on the show being telecast on Star Plus channel, alleging that it was against the values of Indian society.
But the court said: 'Our culture is not so fragile that it would be affected by one TV programme. Those who don't want to see it can switch off their TV sets or can watch any other channel.'
The show had last week created an uproar in parliament, following which the information and broadcasting ministry had issued a show-cause notice to the channel.
The petitioners alleged that the programme posed 'obscene' questions to the contestants and cited the example when a woman was asked in her husband's presence if she had a physical relationship with another person. When she said no, the polygraph test said the answer was wrong.
'sach ka Saamna', based on the popular American TV show 'Moment of Truth', started this month and has climbed popularity charts.
Delhi High Court Refuses To Play Moral Police; Sach Ka Saamna Will Stay On Air
The Delhi High Court today dismissed two petitions that sought to ban the telecast of Sach Ka Saamna. “It is for the government to decide whether the programme should be banned or not. It is not the function of the court ... There are far more serious problems in this country which we have to settle,” PTI quoted a division bench, headed by chief justice A.P. Shah as saying.
“Our culture is not so fragile that it would be affected by one TV programme,” the court said. The petitioners had argued that the show was detrimental to Indian culture.
Star Plus has replied to the I&B ministry’s show cause notice. The show was once again a topic of debate in the Rajya Sabha on Monday.
Sach ka Saamna offends? Turn off your TV: Delhi HC
Delhi High Court today threw out two petitions against the game show Sach ka Saamna, saying “moral policing” was not its job, and advised those offended by the show to turn off their TVs.
The judges slammed the petition as an example of the “misuse” of public interest litigation and, going a step ahead, also ridiculed the “hypocrisy of various ministers and parliamentarians” over deciding broadcasting law and television content.
“In this land of Gandhi, it appears that nobody follows Gandhi... Follow the Gandhian principle of ‘see no evil’. Why do you not simply switch off the TV?” a division bench of Chief Justice A P Shah and Justice Manmohan told the petitioners.
“We have very good advice for you. You have got two judges sitting here who do not watch TV at all. It will certainly help.”
Individual ideas of morality were not the business of the court, the judges said. “We are not sitting here for moral policing... You approach the Parliament and get the remedy. The courts cannot be expected to deal with issues that involve different individual perceptions.”
The plea by petitioners Deepak Maini and Prabhat Kumar was an “example of how PILs are being misused” in a country that faces “several far more serious problems”, the bench said. “Let the government decide whether the programme is to be banned or not. We are not getting into it.”
To the contention that the show — in which contestants are asked ‘objectionable’ questions in front of family and friends — was against the culture of India, the court said: “Our culture is not so fragile that it will be affected by one TV show. Moreover, nobody in his individual capacity can be allowed to take upon the social order and ask for directions.”
“You are asking us to entertain an area which deals with perceptions and opinions. Further, morality yardsticks are to be decided by the government. We cannot decide the issue,” the judges told the counsel for petitioners, former Additional Solicitor General Vikas Singh.
While repeatedly directing the petitioners to take the issue to the legislature and executive, the court was scathing on lawmakers.
“I am not sure whether the show has brought out the truth of many people but it is certain that it has brought out the hypocrisy of various ministers and parliamentarians,” Justice Shah said.
He made the comment in reference to the repeated flip-flops by MPs over broadcasting bills and endless debates over self-regulation of TV channels in both Houses. “We have seen numerous debates on self-regulation and what not over the broadcasting rules, though leading to nothing,” Justice Shah said.
“Probably the issue is so complicated that the Government is still contemplating.”
A number of MPs had created a song and dance in Parliament last week over the alleged ‘obscene’ content of Sach ka Saamna, following which the Information and Broadcasting Ministry had slapped a showcause notice on broadcaster Star Plus.
‘Sach Ka Saamna’ plea rejected
Stating that courts have more important things to do than moral policing, the Delhi High Court on Wednesday dismissed a plea to stop the telecast of the controversial reality TV show Sach ka Saamna.
A division bench of Chief Justice Ajit Prakash Shah and Justice Manmohan said, “It is for the government to decide whether the programme should be banned or not. It is not the function of the court... There are far more serious problems in this country which we have to settle.”
It asked the petitioners, Deepak Maini and Prabhat Kumar, to approach the Central government.
The petitioners had approached the court seeking a stay on the show being telecast on Star Plus channel, alleging that it was against the values of Indian society.
But the court said, “Our culture is not so fragile that it would be affected by one TV programme. Those who don’t want to see it can switch off their TV sets or can watch any other channel.”
The show had last week created an uproar in parliament, following which the information and broadcasting ministry had issued a show-cause notice to the channel.
The petitioners alleged that the programme posed ‘obscene’ questions to the contestants and cited the example when a woman was asked in her husband’s presence if she had a physical relationship with another person. When she said no, the polygraph test said the answer was wrong.
Sach ka Saamna, based on the popular American TV show Moment of Truth, started this month and has fast climbed up popularity charts .
Sach Ka Saamna gets a clean chit
Recently it was reported that politicians made a lot of hungama over the reality show Sach Ka Saamna, and wanted it to be banned. They alleged that this particular show crossed the line of vulgarity and no family can’t watch it or bear such content. As per our source, “SKS has got clean chit from the court as all the cases that was filed against the show were rejected.”
"Though court has given the green signal, but the producer and channel are still waiting for the reply from Information and Broadcast Ministry. The verdict should be out any time soon. Though the hearing date is declared on August 7,” adds the source. Is the shooting halted due to such pangas. “Not really, as the channel has already shot two schedules i.e. 22 episodes with Rajeev Khandelwal.. The actor is currently in Leh Ladakh for the shoot of his flick. As soon as he returns the shooting will be resumed,” chirps the little birdie.
When asked, what are the chances of the show being pulled off air, our khabroo replied, “There are very less chances of the show going off air. I am sure whatever decisions IBM takes, it will be done fairly.” Sach Ka Saamna has successful climbed the first ladder. Now let’s see what the next verdict is.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
No moral policing: Court allows Sach Ka Saamna
Stating that courts have more important things to do than moral policing, the Delhi High Court on Wednesday dismissed a plea to stop the telecast of the controversial reality TV show Sach ka Saamna.
Sach Ka Saamna facing government scrutiny
A division bench of Chief Justice Ajit Prakash Shah and Justice Manmohan said: "It is for the government to decide whether the programme should be banned or not. It is not the function of the court. There are far more serious problems in this country which we have to settle."
It asked the petitioners, Deepak Maini and Prabhat Kumar, to approach the central government.
The petitioners had approached the court seeking a stay on the show being telecast on Star Plus channel, alleging that it was against the values of Indian society.
But the court said: "Our culture is not so fragile that it would be affected by one TV programme. Those who don't want to see it can switch off their TV sets or can watch any other channel."
The show had last week created an uproar in parliament, following which the information and broadcasting ministry had issued a show-cause notice to the channel.
The petitioners alleged that the programme posed 'obscene' questions to the contestants and cited the example when a woman was asked in her husband's presence if she had a physical relationship with another person. When she said no, the polygraph test said the answer was wrong.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Indian reality TV’s tryst with truth draws protests
NEW DELHI: The Indian version of a US reality TV show that extracts secrets from minor celebrities has caused protests and a furore in parliament with its focus on infidelity, incest and other taboo subjects.
MPs from various parties queued up this week to denounce ‘Sach Ka Saamna’ or ‘Facing the Truth’ as indecent and an assault on Indian culture.
On Wednesday, the government issued the Star TV company that broadcasts the programme with a show cause notice, asking it to explain why the show should not be banned.
Petitions demanding a stay on broadcasts of the show have been filed with the New Delhi High Court and there have been organised protests outside Star's main offices.
The channel insists the programme -- a version of the US show ‘Moment of Truth’ -- helps expose social hypocrisy, while cultural commentators have voiced concerns that the government is overstepping on a free speech issue.
Star India Pvt Ltd. is a member of the regional Star TV stable owned by Australian media mogul Rupert Murdoch's News Corp.
‘Facing the Truth’ features Indian celebrities who are asked a series of personal questions which they answer in front of a live audience, as well as family and friends.
If they answer truthfully -- determined with the help of a polygraph test -- they win 10 million rupees (208,000 dollars).
As in the US format, contestants are free to quit at any point during the show if they feel uncomfortable.
The questions range from the mildly transgressive: ‘Have you ever stolen bed linen from hotels you have stayed in?’ to the deeply personal: ‘Have you ever asked a woman to abort your child?’ Such questions are ‘obscene,’ according to regional Samajwadi Party MP Kamal Akhtar, who was particularly shocked by one woman being asked, in her husband's presence, whether she was ever tempted to cheat on him.
‘The show is against Indian culture,’ Akhtar said in parliament.
Hindu nationalist lawmaker S.S. Ahluwalia said the show's backers were ‘trying to destroy civilised society.’
Star has until July 27 to respond to the show cause notice, which notes charges that ‘Sach Ka Saamna’ includes content ‘offending good taste and decency’.
The television company insists the accusations are unfounded.
‘The show is about having strength of character to face the truth and turn over a new leaf. It is a show that promotes truth and honesty,’ a Star spokeswoman told AFP.
Rejecting the charge of indecency, she argued that viewers ‘have the remote at their finger tips,’ and can change channels if they feel offended.
Siddarth Basu, head of the production company Big Synergy which puts the show together said it was about ‘lifting the veil off hypocrisy’.
‘The contestants know all the questions because the final 21 are chosen from the 50 they face during the polygraph test. What they don't know is the result of the polygraph test which is revealed during the show,’ he told CNN-IBN news channel in an interview.
‘Many of them want to tell the truth.’Media critics have focused less on the show's content and more on the government's intervention, which some see as nanny-state censorship.
Mannika Chopra, columnist with the Tribune and Hindustan Times papers, said it was ‘not up to parliamentarians’ to decide what people should watch on TV, no matter how offended they might be.
Indian Express columnist Shubhra Gupta was similarly insistent that viewers should be the final arbiters of what constitutes good taste -- and good television.
‘Unless it appeals to the audiences the show will not run,’ Gupta said.
‘The line of questioning may be questionable but I don't have the right to force my opinion down anyone's throat,’ she said, adding that ‘Sach Ka Saamna’had ‘raised the bar’ on what is permissible.
‘In that sense it is a landmark for Indian TV.’
Fortified with 'Sach Ka Saamna', Star Plus takes on Colors
Take Colors head on. That seems to be Star Plus' programming plan after 'Sach Ka Saamna' has arrived.
Fortified with 'Sach Ka Saamna', Star Plus takes on Colors
Showing signs of aggression, after being put on the defensive for some time, Star Plus is getting back the Kiran Bedi-hosted 'Aap Ki Kachehri' to fight against Colors' top-rated show 'Balika Vadhu'. The television reality-justice show, which had a successful first run, is returning from 5 August at the 8 pm slot as its original position is taken away by the polygraph-tested reality show Sach Ka Saamna.
"Star Plus is getting on the offensive as they will have two daily prime time reality shows. This could change the game. And we were not expecting 'Aap Ki Kachehri' to occupy the 8 pm slot," says the programming head of a leading Hindi general entertainment channel.
Moving 'Aap Ki Kachehri' into a new time zone could test the strength of the show. When it was launched at the 10.30 pm slot, it had a male skew viewership. "The 8 pm slot in Hindi GECs is female-dominated. The contest with 'Balika Vadhu' will also be interesting as both are non-conventional in approach," says a media analyst.
'Aap Ki Kachehri' drew in more audiences from the northern region and in smaller towns, similar to the viewing base of 'Balika Vadhu'. "We expect Aap Ki Kacheri to expand the market. It could also take away some audiences from Balika Vadhu. We expect it to do a bit of both," says Star India EVP marketing and communications Anupam Vasudev.
Vasudev also expects 'Aap Ki Kachehri' to garner audiences from the non-GEC channels. "There is a significant male viewing population in the non-GEC channels at 8 pm. The show tends to draw in viewership from these channels," he says.
Star Plus' relatively weaker show, 'Kis Desh Mein Hai Meraa Dil', at 8.30 pm is being refreshed with 'Sajan Ghar Jaana Hai'. The channel hopes the new show would have a lead-in advantage from 'Aap Ki Kachehri'.
"Star Plus is creating an 8-9 pm band. And it is the right time to be aggressive and get in Aap Ki Kachehri as Zee TV's new shows are also picking up. If they would have waited for Sach Ka Saamna to complete its run before getting in Aap Ki Kachehri, it would, perhaps, have been a bit late. This is the right time to strike when Sach Ka Saamna is creating a ripple," says a media observer.
Star Plus is also strategically pushing the two prime time shows Kis Desh Mein Hain Mera Dil and Raja Ki Aayegi Baarat to the afternoon band. "They have enough steam left in them to do well in the afternoon band," says Vasudev.
Vanita Kohli-Khandekar: Star's moment of truth
Sach ka samna is a gripping show. It asks perfectly ordinary people 21 intimate questions. These could be around their deepest thoughts and feelings — about partners, family, spouse, society or just anything. The participant’s ability to answer these truthfully could win them some money. The show, a licensed version of the American Moment of Truth, has been aired in 23 countries. It is known for its corrosive impact. In one instance, a marriage broke up on air.
The first episode had Smita Matai, a middle-class lady from Mumbai. She lost out when the polygraph machine, which decides whether you are telling the truth, said she was lying. She had responded in the negative to a question on whether she had considered sleeping with someone other than her husband.
While voyeurism and everything else that goes with it is part of the appeal of the show, so is the apparent honesty and decency of most of the participants. As you peer into their fears and insecurities and form judgements on their ability to deal with them, one question will bother you. Can you take this truth test?
Tougher questions than that will be bothering the (brand new) management at Star India, which launched the show on July 15 this year on its flagship channel, Star Plus. The most important among them is whether this show can work in India.
Of the 134 million TV homes in India, more than 98 per cent are single-TV homes. This has been one of the biggest stumbling blocks to programming experimentation. According to one report in a trade magazine, single-TV dominance now has less to do with purchasing power and more with societal thinking. Most families do not want a second TV because they believe it will cut down on the moments the family sits together to do something — watch TV.
When DTH (direct-to-home) took off in India a couple of years ago, there was some hope that programming experiments would get more frequent a la multiplexes. (See The Multiplexing of TV, May 6, 2008). When multiplexes took off in 2000, they offered different films to different sets of people, at different prices and at different times of the day, making it easier for film-makers to experiment. So all kinds of films could find their audience.
Similarly, as different ways of distributing TV signals emerged (DTH, IPTV), there was some hope that programming experiments would begin. Freed of the dependence on mass viewership-led ad revenues, broadcasters could also sell differentiated programming to groups of consumers willing to pay for it.
There are several reasons this has not happened — regulatory, structural and so on. But the biggest by far is the single-TV factor.
Given this backdrop, Sach Ka Samna or shows like it face a rather uphill task. While the first week’s rating of over four looks promising, the show has an invisible barrier to cross if Star wants it to become bigger. Kaun Banega Crorepati, another unusual format that Star experimented with in 2000, was successful simply because of its appeal across different members of the family. I can’t see too many Indian parents watching Sach Ka Samna with their kids, without cringing with embarrassment. The funny thing is that while we have evolved somewhat as a movie-going audience we haven’t as a TV-watching one. Maybe because TV is inside the house while films are something we watch outside.
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has already issued a show cause notice to Star on the show. This is in response to a question raised in Parliament on the decency and morality of the show. I have no doubt that one of those sundry groups which surface when a big film is about to hit the screen will file a case against this show or do some of the usual drama in the name of public morality.
Star Plus is a popular channel which is experimenting with one show. The single-TV reality of the Indian market has made life difficult for dozens of niche channels whose premise is different programming.
So go ahead and enjoy this romp into the human psyche till the show is on air.
Star Plus replies to I&B notice on Sach ka Saamna
Star Plus replies to I&B notice on Sach ka Saamna
Star Plus has replied to the Ministry for Information and Broadcasting show cause notice issued to it last week for the controversial show Sach Ka Saamna.
I&B Ministry had issued a show cause notice to Star Plus for Sach Ka Saamna last week after there was a furore in Rajya Sabha over the programme.
The controversial reality TV show was on Monday once again debated in Rajya Sabha and MPs demanded that it be banned.
The programme has been in trouble after MPs from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Samajwadi Party (SP) complained that it was obscene and against Indian culture.
Communist Party of India-Marxist politburo member and MP Brinda Karat called for a regulatory body to keep an eye on TV programmes. She only criticised many TV programmes calling them casteist and vulgar.
"It is the utter failure of media. There is no media self regulatory body to control this. Parliament has to take it up and we say no more of this superstition and caste biased content. It is abhorrent. It is time the government should come up with independent body to monitor programmes. We are not for moral policing but freedom cannot be misused. We should set up a regulatory authority," said Brinda during a debate in Rajya Sabha.
BJP Spokesperson Ravi Shankar Prasad too demanded a regulatory body to regulate TRPs.
"The government needs to take notice of what goes on air. It is high time we have an autonomous regulatory body to regulate TRPs. TRPs should be monitored on a monthly basis and not on an hourly basis," said Prasad.
I&B minister Ambika Soni, while participating in a short-duration discussion on "increasing obscenity and vulgarity in television programmes in Rajya Sabha, said her ministry has sent around 278 notices to TV channels over the last few years for various reasons".
Sach Ka Saamna breaches no official rule
STAR Plus, the general entertainment channel, has said its reality show, Sach Ka Saamna, has not violated any programming guidelines prescribed under the existing cable laws in the country.
On July 22, the I&B ministry had issued a showcause notice to STAR Plus for alleged violation of section 5 of the Cable TV (Regulation) Act, 1995, for showing a television programme that depicts “vulgarity, indecency and is against good taste”. The ministry gave time till July 27 to respond to the notice.
STAR Plus sources say it is based on an international game show and it does not, in any manner, depict obscenity or vulgarity. “STAR Plus is airing a parental guidance warning during the telecast of each of the episodes. Also, the show is being aired at a late night timing of 10.30 pm. The channel has not violated any provisions of the programming code,” said a company source requesting anonymity. However, when asked to comment, a company spokesperson declined to do so.
In the show, the contestants are asked 21 varied and intimate questions about their personal and professional life.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Sach Ka Saamna breaches no official rule: STAR Plus
STAR Plus, the general entertainment channel, has said its reality show, Sach Ka Saamna, has not violated any programming guidelines prescribed under the existing cable laws in the country.
On July 22, the I&B ministry had issued a showcause notice to STAR Plus for alleged violation of section 5 of the Cable TV (Regulation) Act, 1995, for showing a television programme that depicts “vulgarity, indecency and is against good taste”. The ministry gave time till July 27 to respond to the notice.
STAR Plus sources say it is based on an international game show and it does not, in any manner, depict obscenity or vulgarity. “STAR Plus is airing a parental guidance warning during the telecast of each of the episodes. Also, the show is being aired at a late night timing of 10.30 pm. The channel has not violated any provisions of the programming code,” said a company source requesting anonymity. However, when asked to comment, a company spokesperson declined to do so.
In the show, the contestants are asked 21 varied and intimate questions about their personal and professional life.
No 'bedroom talk' on TV - are policymakers playing spoilsport?
First it was strict guidelines for kid actors, then a demand to ban popular TV show "Balika Vadhu" and now a debate on reality show
"Sach Ka Saamna" -- the Indian TV industry is witnessing a sudden spurt in interference by policymakers, say viewers.
Samajwadi Party MP Kamal Akhtar's recent outburst in parliament over "obscene questions about a person's bedroom life" on STAR Plus' "Sach Ka Saamna" has raised eyebrows among viewers about the regulation of TV content in the country.
"I don't understand what the MP is debating about," said 22-year-old Neha Gadi, who watches the show with avid interest.
"What's wrong with personal questions if the contestant has no problems in answering them? I don't think anyone else needs to have an issue. If he (Akhtar) thinks it's obscene and it is not a good show to watch, he must not watch it -- why impose something on others unnecessarily," added Gadi, an event management professional.
Nakul Mehta, who works in a human resource management firm, echoes the sentiment.
"If people want to regulate TV content, they must do it for news channels first. Some of them are ridiculous. Shows like 'Sach Ka Saamna' are gripping and interesting, and more importantly, a matter of choice for the viewers," he said.
Minister of Information and Broadcasting Ambika Soni believes there must be a defined limit to the content shown on television.
"A 'Lakshman rekha' (a limit) is required. We are copying Western culture and a line needs to be drawn somewhere, we have received the same kind of feedback from the masses too," Soni said in an interview to a TV chat show.
Some parliamentarians have taken a strong stance against the show "Sach Ka Saamna".
According to Kamal Akhtar, who raised his point in the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday, other shows like "Rakhi Ka Swayamvar", "Balika Vadhu" and "Iss Jungle Se Mujhe Bachao" also need some regulatory body to monitor the content.
"These shows do no value addition to our society. There is no good message that they are trying to send out -- on patriotism or on Indian society. So it is my plea that the government must look into what reaches the viewers after proper censorship," Akhtar told IANS.
Some viewers have however expressed disgust over the personal nature of the questions asked on "Sach Ka Saamna".
"The questions asked are very voyeuristic, very titillating, maybe that is why the programme is such a hit. I think some of the questions they pose are simply disgusting," according to Vandana Sharma. She said her 12-year-old son is very keen to watch the show, after hearing about it from his classmates, and she has a tough time keeping him away from the TV.
Janata Dal-United president Sharad Yadav had caused much brouhaha when he approached Soni to ban "Balika Vadhu", a show which deals with child marriage. Yadav argued that the show did nothing to discourage the age-old social practice. However, Soni gave a clean chit to the show's broadcaster Colors after detailed scrutiny.
Sandhya Bajaj, member of the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), had also expressed resentment over Colors' show "Na Aana Iss Des Laado", which deals with female infanticide, when it began. She had felt that the subject was hard-hitting for a TV show meant for entertainment, but maintained that such shows could be aired on a mass medium provided they are handled in a "very subtle" manner.
Bajaj has also recently submitted a list of dos and don'ts for TV shows involving children to the women and child affairs ministry -- she demanded a counsellor be present on the sets of the show, limited work hours for child actors and no heavy make-up for them, healthy food and recreational facilities on the sets and the presence of a parent or guardian during shoots.
In "Sach Ka Saamna", an adaptation of American show "Moment of Truth", contestants are required to answer 21 questions about their lives after undergoing a polygraph test that determines if an answer is true. If successful, the contestant can walk away with a prize money of Rs.10 million.
The information and broadcasting ministry has sent a show cause notice to Star Plus following Kamal Akhtar's objections to "Sach Ka Saamna". The channel has to respond by Monday.
Now, Shivraj Singh Chouhan opposes 'Sach Ka Saamna'
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan Sunday voiced his opinion against Star Plus's controversial reality show 'Sach Ka Saamna', saying that the programme was 'not in the interest of our society'.
Talking to reporters outside the venue of an official function, Chouhan said: 'The programme is not in the interest of our society and I am personally against its airing. Anything and everything for the sake of earning money is not correct.'
On whether the state government would ban its telecast, Chouhan said: 'Legal opinion would be sought in this matter.'
A Bharatiya Janata Party ( BJP) legislator, Dhruv Narain Singh had July 24 in the state assembly demanded banning the telecast of the reality show in the state, describing it as against Indian culture and dignity of women.
BJP spokesperson Umashankar Gupta also supported the demand, saying undignified questions were being asked from women contestants during the programme and its impact was bad on Indian families.
Sach Ka Samna: The problem with Truth
It’s a show made for Raja Harishchandra.
But then reality TV is not exactly known for bringing out the real person in the participant perspiring for the prize. And this is not ‘satyuga’.
Maybe that’s why no one has yet hit the jackpot on Sach Ka Samna. Or maybe the producers have another truth behind it which concerns money not morality.
Now saying the truth is not a new concept- we are aware of its simple merits since the days of Rama, and it was given a cool shade by Bapu’s white drapes. And unlike the copied format of Moment of Truth, the idea of being honest is khalis desi: ‘Satyam Vada, Dharmam Chara’ goes a Vedic hymn.
So what’s the breaking news about a new show that encourages people to speak the truth? One would expect parents to lovingly tell their little monsters to grow up and win the Rs 1cr cheque from the stern & suave Rajeev Khandelwal.
The only problem that fly-swatting, scalp-rubbing intellectual types could have is that it takes Rs 1 cr for folks to put it out straight and unfuzzy. Black & White. That is enough to take away all the wind from the puffed up chests of a ‘truthful’ nation like ours.
Channel-flicking, soap-suckers may wrack their eroded brains thinking why would any one want to reveal whether they have wanted to sleep with their hubby’s friend in the hubby’s presence on the sets? Or why would anyone choose to spill the beans on their illegitimate children on national TV?
Their curiosity about dirty linen has given a sharp boost to the sagging fortunes of Star Plus. Which ofcourse makes one conclude that we are basically a pervert voyeuristic creed interested in knowing the darkest and stupidest moments in the life of everyone which is not us- including Fiza (Chand Mohammad’s on-&-off wife irritating her co-junglees on Mujhe Iss Jungle Se Bachao) and Rakhi Sawant who may get married and settle down in the neighbourhood of my north Delhi locality. Oh Jejus!
Curiously, the show is placed in the same time slot where the legendary Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi once occupied the position of pride. Ironically, the saris and kurtas and sindoors and namasteys that made some think satyuga had made a U-turn is now replaced by sari-clad women and septuagenarian grandpas coming clean on their fantasies.
Even Smriti Irani of the sari-clad-even-while-sleeping-fame-Tulsi has objected to the show. Ofcourse the truth that her own comedy show is worse than the Laughter Challenge may be the reason of her anger towards her once co-star Rajeev who, she thinks, looks disturbed in asking questions. He may now find this amusing, and I am hoping doesn’t burst into laughter while asking ‘Did you feel happy when your dog died?’ on his show.
But our elders in the House are not amused. No, I am not talking about your naani, who is sulking for having been politely thrown out of yet another reality show called ‘India’s Got Talent’ by a guffawing Kirron Kher in open hair and forehead defying bindis. I mean honorable Members of Rajya Sabha.
Yes they are watching a lot of TV and they don’t like Sach Ka Samna one bit. And they don’t want you to watch it.
Among others, Samajwadi Party’s Kamal Akhtar stopped all other business concerning the people of India to raise what the Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha said was a ‘serious issue’- obscene questions being asked about the participants’ personal lives before their family members.
BJP ofcourse brought in the ‘Indian culture in danger’ refrain to a discussion that promptly led the Government to issue a notice to the channel airing the truthful show.
It is not immediately clear what was the exact problem of the MPs. Was it the ‘obscene’ questions? May be they want questions like ‘What’s your favourite party symbol?’ or ‘Do you brush your teeth daily?’ to replace the more direct ones like ‘Did you see male strippers naked and get erec…er…I mean happy?’
Or may be one of the MPs participated on the show and is now dreading all the cats he let out while on the hot seat. Imagine what the SP chap would have said about his party’s snuggling up with the UPA last year…or what Narendra Modi might have revealed!
This latest parliamentary halla follows another one, not on the issues of roti and paani- Sharad Yadav who is opposed to the original women’s reservation bill let loose his ire on Balika Vadhu in the Lok Sabha early this month.
Whatever be the case, this latest small screen rage has brought a lot of people face to face with their own truths and that may not be a very good feeling if you happen to be Bobby darling, who also participated. It has brought forth another issue- people in this country want to know the truth, but aren’t sure about facing its consequences.
That’s saying something in the land of Gandhi, Buddha and Govinda from ‘Kyunki Main Jhooth Nahi Bolta’.
That humans were never comfortable with truth even though it would set them free was a known fact, but they don’t even want others to embrace it is a new and twisted sign of the times we live in.
HC adjourns hearing on 'Sach Ka Samna' TV show
HC adjourns hearing on 'Sach Ka Samna' TV show
The Delhi High Court adjourned the hearing on the controversial TV serial 'Sach Ka Samna', a game show where contestants are asked a series of prying questions.
A single-member Bench of Justice Sanjiv Khanna referred the matter to a Division Bench headed by Chief Justice A P Shah.
The matter will come up for hearing on July 29.
During the proceedings Justice Khanna observed that the two petitions seeking a stay on the telecast of 'Sach Ka Samna' are of public interest and that should be heard by the chief Justice.
The show is based on America's 'Moment of Truth' in which contestants are asked 21 questions, mostly embarrassing as they are personal in nature. Those who pass the polygraph test become eligible to win up to Rs one crore in prize money.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Bobby Darling in sach ka saamna
Pankaj Sharma was born 10 January, 1976 in Meerut. He is the second of three children of a Professor. As a young boy, he played only with
girls and wanted to be a woman. In the eighth grade, he started using his mother's lipsticks and saris.
In the 12th grade, he had his first serious relationship with a male classmate. His parents took him to a sexologist, a psychiatrist, and even a temple.
One day he ran away with his boyfriend because he was afraid of flunking his final exams. The couple traveled to the Far East and Noida, doing odd BBA Studies. He returned when his father told him his mother was dying of kidney failure. After this , His father disowned him through a legal notice published in newspaper.
Pankaj Sharma then came to Noida Sec-47 from Delhi. He spent a fortnight at the station, sleeping on stairs. He was invited to live with four girls, who worked in a dance bar in Malad. The girls told him about a gay man who used to earn a lot as a dancer. He decided to become a dancer, and earned Rs. 170 for his first performance. He decided to become an actor after reading Bollywood actress Rekha's interview, in which she said: "If you're famous, people love you for being famous. They don't care about your personal life."
He struggled for two years before he started getting small roles in films. He started getting known as "Bobby Darling" (Bobby was Pankaj Sharma's pet name). He also became a known name in Mumbai's party circuits.
Acting career
Bobby Darling has worked in many Hindi films such as Taal, Style, Na Tum Jaano Na Hum, Maine Dil Tujhko Diya, Stumped, Chalte Chalte, Valentines Day, Page 3, Navarasa, Kyaa Kool Hai Hum, Apna Sapna Money Money and Tum.
He has also worked in TV serials such as Jassi Jaissi Koi Nahin, Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, Yeh Dil Chahe More, Kittie Party, Kahin To Milenge, Kahi Kissi Roz, Kyon Hota Hai Pyar, Hum Paanch, and Professor Pyarelal
He recently appeared in the Indian version of the reality TV show Big Brother (called Big Boss) where he was evicted from the house in the first week through an audience poll. A rumor has been going around regarding his involvement with Deepak Parashar - this rumor is still very strong, as people keep claiming that Bobby is Deepak's gay mistress.
Bobby Darling dared to share the moments of truth in ‘Sach Ka Saamna’ with the host Rajeev Khandelwal. Bobby’s life has been an open book but some unshared chapters of her life will unfold on the show.
“People almost know every thing about me but through this show they will know 30% more,” bobby reveals.
Apart from several facts, we will witness the emotional side of playful Bobby Darling. “I did get emotional at times; anything related to your life evokes emotions. I also realised my young age follies.”
“My brother and sister were present on the show to support me.” Bobby admits, “They had done rigorous research on my life so I was little scared of lie-o-meter.”
“I wish after seeing this show some sensible director will come forward to make a movie on my life. I would love to be featured in my biographical film” hopes bobby.
As of now bobby is celebrating the verdict of court in favour of gay community.
'Sach Ka Saamna' With Alwin D'souza
Sach Ka Saamna 23rd July 2009 participant Alwin D'souza.. Rajeev then asks Alwin what he does..he says he works in a manufacturing company then they show the polygraph tests clipping of Alwin..& then Alwin's family is introduces..His wife Purvashi, mother, elder sister & mother in law have come .. Rajeev asks them if they are getting scared, then
1Q Have u ever troubled ur wife's cat Tinker Bell...
Reply: Yes... & the Test says it is True..
then Alwin says kii cat uske pairon ke pass aathi thi & he used to push it away..he asks Purvashi she laughs & says she does not know abt it..Alwin says now he loves the cat..
Rajeev asks Alwin whether he is adventurous..Alwin says yes..
2Q Have u ever sneaked into a washroon 2 kiss a girl..
Reply: Yes... & the Test says it is True..
Rajeev laughs at this..& Alwin says it was before marriage as his wife says it was not me..Rajeev asks Alwin abt his nature...
3Q Have u ever chased a begger to give him money..
Reply: Yes... & the Test says it is True..
then Rajeev says matlab begger agge aur aap peeche..so Alwin says kii once he was in the car with his wife, tab one begger came & knocked on the window & before Alwin cld give him the money the begger went away, so his wife told him to go & give the money to the begger so he went behing the beggar..
Rajeev asks Alwin abt his work..
4Q Have u ever lied to ur wife abt ur work & go out with ur frnds..
1st Break..After the break Rajeev welcomes & the 4th question is repeated..
Reply: Yes... & the Test says it is True..
then Rajeev talks to his wife if she knew abt it..she says he never used to pick calls, i used to w8 for him & he used say meeting and all..aur jab woh pakda gaya tho usne Alwin ke saare credit cards, ATM cards le liye..
5Q Do u believe that ur wife enjoys criticizing abt u to her friends..
Reply: Yes... & the Test says it is True..
Rajeev asks Purvashi, she says she din't know that..& Alwin says she is very straight forward..tho woh bol dethi hai kuch baatein jinke saamne nahii bolna chahiye..
6Q Have u been with any other women while u were dating ur wife Purvashi..
Reply: Yes... & the Test says it is True..
Rajeev then talks to his MIL, she says kii she knew it, Alwin ne sab sach bataya tha when he & Purvashi declared abt their affair..then Rajeev asks Purvashi, she says usne pata lagaya tha through social networking & contacts... tho Rajeev mazaak mein kehtha hai kii she is a jasoos too..Alwin says kii she shld open a detective agency...all laugh..
2nd Stage-7-11 Questions- 5 lakhs
Rajeev asks him whether he stays with his parents..Alwin says he lives with his wife, near his wife's home..
.
7Q Ru happy mann hii mann that ur elder brother takes care of ur parents...
2nd Break..
After the break Rajeev welcomes all & the 7Q is repeated..
Reply: Yes... & the Test says it is True..
Alwin says kii his elder brother is a father figure & woh jitna khayal rakh sakthe hai unka he can't keep..then Rajeev asks Alwin's mom, she says all r children take care of her..
Rajeev asks Alwin abt his & Purvashi marriage time he says 7 months, Rajeev asks him kii ur a Christian & she is a Hindu [or something like that] so did u face problems..Alwin says problems were there but they over came it..
8Q Do u believe that ur sis disappointed the family by getting married to a person of other Religion...
Reply: Yes... & the Test says it is True..
Rajeev asks Alwin kii he himself has married a Hindu..tho Alwin says tab when his sis got married to felt like that but not now as she has married the one she loves..Rajeev talks to the sister she says like jab thak khud par nahii beetthi u won't understand..
Rajeev asks Alwin abt his being ambitious...
9Q Do u feel pressurized to live upto the expectations of ur wife...
Reply: Yes... & the Test says it is True..
Rajeev asks Purvashi..she says kii she does pressurize him as she feels kii he can do better & she gives him the push...& then Alwin says kii Pressure is Motivation for him...
10Q Wud u ever have a physical relationship with other women if ur wife does not know abt it..
Sach Ka Saamna 22nd July 2009 Urvashi Dholikia
Reply: Yes... & the Test says it is True..
Rajeev is like u have worked with me also..she was like she feels like that...he can take it in any sense...
then Rajeev asks her about being yom boying & all..
3Q Have u ever peed in the swiming pool in the childhood...
Reply: Yes... & the Test says it is True..
Rajeev makes a cute face expression..she laughs & says kii it is a natural phenomenon & people who say they have not they r lying..
Rajeev then asks her abt her acting career...
4QWud u be happy if at ur mom's age u will look like her...
Reply: Yes... & the Test says it is True..
then Rajeev says kii if it is like that then she will be very beautiful as her mother is very beautiful..
5Q Have u ever felt that other women r jealous of u becoz ur beautiful...
Reply: Yes... & the Test says it is True..
6Q Do u believe that most men u meet want to sleep with u..
Reply: Yes... & the Test says it is True..
then Rajeev says the first stage is crossed..he congratulates her..& keeps remimnding her saying kii is she wants she can quit..she says she wants to play....
2nd Stage- 7-11 questions- 5 lakhs...
7Q Have u ever had a affair with a married man,.
1st Break..
Rajeev welcomes all after the break..& the 7Q is repeated..
Reply: No... & the Test says it is True..
then Rajeev talks to her mom...she tells she wanted to know the answer to the question..
8Q Have u ever felt that ur friend shanaila {the girl who has ccome with Urvashi, tries to control ur life..
Reply: Yes... & the Test says it is True..
Rajeev asks the friend abt it she says she is over protective so may be Urvashi ko aisa laga ho..
9Q Have u ever enjoyed a male stripper taking off all his clothes at a party...
Reply: Yes... & the Test says it is True..
& Rajeev is like that's a big admission..& Urvashi keeps laughing..
Rajeev from time to time tells her she can quit..but she says she wants to play..
10Q Have u ever had a surgery to enhance ur physical appearance...
Reply: Yes... & the Test says it is True..
11Q Was there a time where u were at the stage of becoming a alchoholic..
Reply: Yes... & the Test says it is True..
Rajeev asked y..she said akelapann, doston ne saath choda & all that stuff..
then the 2nd stage has been crossed..She has won 5 lakhs.. Rajeev then tells her about the 3rd stage..-12-15 Questions- 10 lakhs
12Q Have u been expelled from ur collg for being pregnant as a minor..
2nd Break..
After the break Rajeev says welcome back to Sach Ka Saamna & the 12Q is repeated..
Reply: No... & the Test says it is True..
Rajeev asks if she wants to talk abt it..she says kii she was not thrown out but she left her collg...
13Q Do ur children mean 2 u more then anything in this world...
Reply: Yes... & the Test says it is True..
then Rajeev asks abt her kids..& all..Urvashi answers them with a lot of cofidence..
14Q Did u ever feel mislead that ur parents misguided u by saying that ur half brother was ur real brother...
Reply: Yes... & the Test says it is True..
Urvashi says she has the habit from childhood to look for things & find out 7 that's out she found out..then her Mom says yes she was angry but today she[Urvashi] loves him a lot..
15Q Have u ever felt that ur friend shanaila wants to be ur friend as ur famous...
Reply: No... & the Test says it is False..
After ‘Balika Vadhu’, ‘Sach Ka Saamna’ finds its way in Parliament discussions
Just as the new Government is settling in, the broadcasting industry is seeing more than its regular share of attention in Parliamentary sessions.
Last week, Member of the Parliament Sharad Yadav had voiced his reservations against Colors’ show ‘Balika Vadhu’, stating that the show promoted child marriage. On July 22, 2009, there was chaos in the Upper House of the Parliament again, where some members felt that Star Plus’ new show, ‘Sach ka Saamna’, went against the morality of the Indian society and “offended good taste and decency”. Samajwadi Party’s Kamal Akhtar had raised this issue.
Subsequently, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has sent a show-cause notice to STAR India, asking the channel to clarify its position on the objections raised by the Members of the Parliament. The channel has time till July 27, 2009 to reply to the notice.
Some sections of the broadcasting industry also informed that the two episodes had led the MIB to call for a meeting with the Indian Broadcasting Foundation (IBF) and the News Broadcasters Authority (NBA) on July 23, 2009, to discuss regulation of content on television.
A senior industry source informed, “The meeting had to eventually happen anyway as the MIB had stated its intention earlier to discuss content regulations issue and the Broadcasting Bill soon after the newly appointed Minister and other officials had assumed office. These incidents have just sped up that process.”
Meanwhile, STAR India officials had not received the show-cause notice till late evening on July 22, 2009, and did not offer any comments on the development. Sources familiar with the situation informed that a sense of blame-game on a rival broadcaster could already be felt in both the channels.
Khandelwal tells the truth...Interview with the 'Sach ka Saamna' host
Khandelwal tells the truth...Interview with the 'Sach ka Saamna' host
Rajeev Khandelwal is back on television with a bang. He is hosting one of the biggest shows ever on television, 'Sach Ka Saamna'.
The actor initially was not too keen on accepting the offer but discloses that it were the clippings of the original show ('Sach Ka Saamna' is an adaption of an international acclaimed show called 'Moment of Truth') that prompted him to sign on the dotted line.
He had earlier hosted a few episodes of another game show 'Deal Ya No Deal', on Sony which apparently wasn't critically up to the mark. Surprisingly the host is a shy conservationist and it needs persuasive skills to draw him out. The reticent actor talks about his alleged affair with Aamna Shariff, his current love interest and his new avatar (host).
Excerpts:
You never really accepted the truth about your alleged link-up with a popular television actress?
I never denied anything as there was actually nothing then. I am man enough to accept and admit my relationship. You must have read recent reports where I have accepted my relationship.
What prompted you to host this show?
The concept of the show charmed me and thus I accepted it. Like any other ambitious guy I would not like to miss anything challenging, exciting and unusual. I want to make sure that when I look back at my work I should be proud of my achievements. I want to do shows which are not just run-of-the-mill kinds.
I wasn't ready to host this show till I became aware of the concept. Babu (Siddharth Basu) has called me up and offered me to host a show. My immediate reaction was that I have the time to do the show. I saw the DVD of the international show and told myself that if ever I have to host any show then it has to be this. I feel so proud to be a part of this show.
Were there any contractual limitations from your film producers?
Yes, there were certain initial hiccups. They didn't want the look of my second film 'Peter Gaya Kaam Se' to come out. I just requested them to watch the series of the DVD that Babu has given me. After watching the CD they gave me the go-ahead to do the show. The look though in the movie is completely different. Here I am trying to push my locks back with the help of gel to look decent and composed. Whereas, in the movie its all the more wild.
As the promos suggest the contestants will be fielding some really uncomfortable personal questions. How comfortable or uncomfortable were you throwing those questions?
Oh! I was uncomfortable asking such questions. In fact, everytime I have to throw such questions, I tell the respective contestant that the next question I have to ask makes me uncomfortable so I can only imagine how uncomfortable you are going to be while answering the same.
But some of the questions may even break families?
Or can make the families as well. See, unfortunately we all have a very negative attitude towards the truth and it's so ironical that we, the same people, also propagate the ideology that one must always speak truth. How long can a family survive on a bundle of lies? I feel that truth buried deep inside can be fatal.
In the Indian milieu, such openness is not yet acceptable?
No, I disagree with you. When you see the show you would realise that the questions I ask help in bringing out the truth whether positive or negative. It might help a wife mend relations with her husband and family. We do not drag people from their houses to come on the show. They are well aware in advance what they are getting into and the questions they will be asked. And as you said if a wife decides to come on the show there has to be some motivation or drive behind it. And despite knowing the sort of questions she will be asked if she is keen on appearing what right do we have to be judgmental about it? I was equally judgmental before doing the show but hosting this show has changed me.
The international concept has some explicit content but the Indian format will be toned down a bit considering the Indian sensibilities. Don't you think that would take the sting off the show?
Yes, we have taken Indian sensibilities into consideration. But what you have seen is just a teaser. Trust me, there is lot more in the offing.
Was there any difference between the reaction to the answers given by the girls, boys, youngsters or the adults on the show?
My heart goes out to the women (laughs). I can't make out as I am there as a host doing my job. Married women actually had the courage to come out in the open and accept the truth.
Have you prepared yourself for this show?
I have not worked on my hosting skills on the show. I just decided I will go and be myself. I will deal with them on a human level as it's definitely not easy considering the kind of questions I have to ask.
Is hosting easier than acting?
These are two different things. Hosting this show wasn't an easy job as it is not normal old school hosting. Here you are confronted with a contestant whose past and present is right infront of you like an open book. You have to handle the entire show wisely. You have a script when you are acting but there was no script here. I just hope people accept me as a host and remember me for this show.
On what occasions do you lie?
I am a normal human being who lies at the drop of a hat. Supposedly, if my mother rings me to find if I have had my food I end up lying to her.
Would you like to be a participant on Sach Ka Saamna?
No, not at this point of time. I am not afraid of facing the truth but I am not is a state to disclose all the intricate details of my life.
'Sach Ka Samna' TV show challenged in HC
The show is based on America's 'Moment of Truth' in which contestants are asked 21 questions, mostly embarrassing as they are personal in nature. Those who pass the polygraph test become eligible to win up to Rs one crore in prize money.
One Deepak Maini has approached the court alleging that the show telecast on entertainment channel Star Plus is against the values of Indian society.
"Some of the questions which were so shown are not only vulgar but the same are obscene also...
Urvashi Dholakia's 'Yes' or 'No' battle on Sach Ka Saamna
The actress who made her debut at the age of six in Waqt Ki Raftar and went on to climb the TV soap ladder as an adult by starring in acclaimed shows such as Dekh Bhai Dekh, Kasauti Zindagi Kay and several others, was in the hot seat of Sach Ka Saamna in Episode 6.
Rajeev Khandelwal quizzed her on everything from having an affair with a married man to having had plastic surgery. Urvashi was seen looking down mostly, breathing heavy and glancing at her mom seated with the audience.
But she came out of it unscathed as her answer to the question on the affair was a 'No' and the test proved her right and she admitted that she had had plastic surgery.
Dholakia's probably most embarrassing revelation came when Khandelwal queried her on whether she had enjoyed watching a male stripper take off his clothes at a party. She said yes and burst out laughing along with the host.
The soap star was also quite candid about the dark phases in her life. She admitted to having almost turned an alcoholic when things were rough.
Her honesty brought her up to Rupees five lakhs. But a seemingly harmless question compared to the more scandalous ones that preceded it, made her go back home empty-handed. Urvashi had brought her friend Shanaila to the show. And the question that got her out of the show penniless was the one on the friend. “Do you believe that your friend Shanaila is friends with you because you're famous?” asked Khandelwal. Urvashi replied 'No'. But the lie detector thought otherwise.
On the whole, the episode with Urvashi Dholakia was an exciting one where she didn't mince words or lie often. She sure did endear herself to us.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Kambli has no qualms on his confessions in Sach ka Saamna
Kambli has no qualms on his confessions in Sach ka Saamna
Vinod Kambli has no qualms of what he said on Sach Ka Samna,but insists he didn't slam buddy Sachin Tendulkar
VIinod Kambli is a relieved man. He is also an angry man and his ire is directed to the media who he says accused him of slamming his childhood friend Sachin Tendulkar on Sach ka Saamna, the game show which was aired last night.
However, to a question on whether Tendulkar could have done more to help him during his self-destruct phase, Kambli replied in the affirmative on the show and went on to add that he would have been better off with some motivation. Doesn't that entail slamming a friend? "No," insisted Kambli. "I think the motivation word has been misinterpreted. Everybody needs a push and a kick. Probably, Sachin could have given me a kick up the backside. And when I say that, it does not mean I am criticising him," Kambli told MiD DAY.
Relief
On the relief he experienced, the left-handed batsman, who last played for the country in 2000, said: "I am very relieved. I have always been a genuine person and I just went out there to tell the truth and it's off my back. I am not ashamed about whatever I have said."
The anger towards the media interrupted the conversation. "I am taking legal advice on this issue. There were things that were reported which I didn't say on the show," he remarked.
Though the show is all about spilling the beans, Kambli shocked viewers with confessions which related to sex.
He also admitted that he would never want to live with his family like he had done before leaving home at the age of 11.
Is there a possibility that Kambli said things which were reported (like he being discriminated by cricket officials because of his caste) in the polygraph test? A spokesperson of the show clarified that answers on the polygraph section of the show where 50 questions are asked (before the main show) is only restricted to 'yes' or 'no'.
The contestant is only allowed to elaborate only on the main show.
However, it must be noted that Kambli quit the show when things were getting hotter in terms of the questions.
"I did not do this show for money but to let out some truths. If I wanted to do it for money, I would have played another round," Kambli said.
Breaker
My respect for Vinod Kambli has risen after watch the show. At the end of the day, he is a good human being and he showed that yesterday. You need to have guts to face this kind of questioning and be blatantly honest about things. I don't think he criticised Sachin Tendulkar when he said he should have motivated him more. It was portrayed as if he said Tendulkar is to be blamed but he did not say that.
Milind Rege
(Former Mumbai captain)
I think things were overplayed in the media (about Kambli blaming Tendulkar). At the same time, Vinod saying that Sachin should have motivated him more is a soft excuse. Remember, Sachin did not score those two double hundreds for him. I think friends can help you in your personal problems. In your professional life, friends can only be behind you.
Rajeev Khandelwal Bares The Truth With 'Sach Ka Samna'
Rajeev Khandelwal Bares The Truth With 'Sach Ka Samna'
He began his career on small screen. Now the heartthrob Rajeev Khandelwal is again set to woo the audience with the show ‘Sach Ka Samna’, the Indian version of ‘Moment of Truth’ on national television.
The daring show started yesterday, and has been adapted to suit the Indian sensibilities. The original show was also popular among the Indian audience. In the show the contestants have to do nothing but speak the truth to survive and will be rewarded for their honesty.
Rajeev’s job is not limited to hosting but besides that he has to give constant support to the participants who will go thorough the emotional turmoil while facing very personal questions related to their life. The participants are selected after they go through psycho-analysis of personality type and their past experiences. Then they have to give three tests and interviews before reaching the polygraph test. In the test, participants are put on the hot seat and asked 50 questions and have only 25 seconds to answer each. And as the game progresses the questions become tough and edgy.
However, the contestants have the option of leaving the game mid-way any time. Siddharth Basu the famous quiz master has conceived the show and is producing it, which will air on channel Star Plus. Rajeev has got a new look for this show, he has grown his mane.
Controversy surrounding Kambli's remarks against Tendulkar to end today
Controversy surrounding Kambli's remarks against Tendulkar to end today
The bigger answers may come today, but Vinod Kambli did reveal some shocking truths about himself in game show Sach ka Saamna last night. And he has absolutely no regrets.Among other answers, what was quite touching was the bit about his teacher Vishakha Raut and cricket coach Ramakant Achrekar paying his school fees. "It is a fact and that's why I made it a point to make a mention of them. I am grateful to them," Kambli told MiD DAY last night.
Vinod Kambli watches the much-talked about game show along with friend Marcus Couto at his Bandra residence yesterday. pic/sameer markande |
"So where was the question about me saying things against Sachin?" he asked.
When reminded that the Sachin question will be aired today, he insisted that he had not said anything against his friend.
"As I said, people will have to watch the show to understand things better. I can only say that I have spoken the truth and I am not scared of anything.
"It's sad that people think I am doing it for publicity."
He also agreed on the show that his first wife was a reason for his downfall. His second wife Andrea was on the show too.
On the cricketing side, he slammed the selectors who dropped him from the team and stressed on the fact that no one told him where he was going wrong.
Sach Ka Samna Review
Sach Ka Saamna Reviews
In a conservative country like India which loves family entertainers, comes a very intense and different reality show hosted by the charismatic Rajeev Khandelwal, widely believed to be one of the most talented newcomers in Bollywood today.
Its hard for a concept like Sach Ka Saamna to receive universal acceptance in a country like India as its certainly not something that you’d be comfortable watching with your grandparents or even parents. It also isn’t a show to be watched with kids, hence its aired late night from 10:30 to 11 Pm, which is just about perfect for an “Adults” show.
The format of Sach Ka Samna
Following are the 6 levels, numbers of questions and prize money.
Level 1 - 6 questions - Rs 1,00,000 Level 2 - 5 questions - Rs 5,00,000 Level 3 - 4 questions - Rs 10,00,000 Level 4 - 3 questions - Rs 25,00,000 Level 5 - 2 questions - Rs 50,00,000 Level 6 - 1 question - Rs 1,00,00,000 Before the show,
Sach Ka Saamna challenges users on mobile
Sach Ka Saamna challenges users on mobile
The show Sach Ka Saamna hosted by Rajeev Khandelwal is yet to hit airwaves, but it has already generated immense curiosity among people. The producers Big Synergy and Star Plus are going all out to promote the show; they have already started the promotion of the show thorough mobile.Yes mobile
Star Plus is marketing the show and they have launched a new mobile game where users can test their friends’ courage quotient by a playing a quiz on their cell phones. All they have to do is answer a few personal and embarrassing questions on their friends like “Has your friend ever been attracted to one of his/her teacher?’
The answers are then cross-checked with friends’ and well let’s put it this way, it takes a lot of courage to face the truth and know what people really think about you.
The interactive mobile game will definitely help the channel to generate interest on the show. It will help the show to catch-up with youth and create a new sensation. The show will be going on air from 15 July.
Earlier, it was Rakhi Ka Swayamvar, which launched its online game and now it’s Sach Ka Saamna. Well the producers are awakened to develop their shows as brands and en-cash on the hype to mint moolah. -Rachana Trivedi/ Sampurn MediaVictory of truth on Sach Ka Samna
Victory of truth on Sach Ka Samna
One of the contestants in Sach Ka Saamna has dared to make it up to the level four and earned Rs.25 Lakhs, by alienating his family members for the greed of making a quick buck.Sach Ka Saamna is a show that makes a contestant answers the questions in front of their family and friends, questions that are extremely personal and embarrassing; if they are revealed in-front of everyone. The contestant has the option to leave, or tell their hidden feelings; the real truth that is bound to break many hearts. This intense reality show tests the contestant’s greed for money over relationships.
According to our sources, “This contestant dared to reveal several truths of his life only because he somehow wanted to convey it to his parents. He really had some grave truths to reveal.”
“He quit after winning 25 Lakhs because he did not want to play for money anymore. He only played the game for his dear ones,” adds the source. Contestant can quit at any stage and take the money they have earned and go home. Maximum amount that can be earned is Rs. One crore.
Desi-version of ‘Moment Of Truth’ has subtly become a platform to make confessions. Wonder if people are taking the game seriously or just playing agony aunt. Are the audiences game for something like this when the world is full of lies and double standard?
But most of all, the million dollar question remains; can an honest person worth Rs. One crore be found on the show.
Urvashi Dholikia On sach ka saamna
Urvashi dholikia on such ka saamna was asked a shocking question by host Rajiv Khandelwal.
Que : Kya aap ke college days mein aap ko teen age mein pregnent hone ki wajhe se college chood ne ke liye kaha gaya tha....??
Amrita refuses grilling ‘Sach Ka Saamna’
Mumbai: Looks like Rajeev Khandelwal’s gruesome bounty of questions on ‘Sach Ka Saamna’ have already started haunting Bollywood celebs with the latest proof of it being Amrita Singh’s refusal to be a part of the show.
Amrita has maintained a dignified silence following her divorce from Saif. “This could’ve been her golden chance to come out with the truth in public but then it’s her personal choice”, says a source.
We feel nothing but admiration for this woman as even the possibility of winning a crore didn’t change her mind!
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Sach Ka Saamna | Asking India Can You Handle the Truth?
Truth is an incomplete lie, well India is about to unveil a lot more than that in the upcoming reality show on Star Plus - Sach Ka Saamna. It's the official Indian version of The Moment of Truth.
The format of the show is simple, one contestant is chosen via auditions to participate he/she shall be asked 21 uncomfortable questions prior to the show and they need to be answered with a polygraph machine (lie detector). The machine will help determine if the answers given is a lie or truth. On the final shoot same questions are repeated and every truthful answers wins money and a lie... well takes you off the show. Now this game show isn't as easy as it seems since the American Series The Moment of Truth is known for dwelling a lot into the territories of promiscuity. Do you think it's easy to answer questions like?
Would you ever cheat on your spouse?
Have you ever felt attracted to your friend's spouse?
Have you ever called in sick at office when you were well?
Do you borrow money with no intention of paying back?
Contestant alienates family in Sach Ka Saamna
According to our sources, “This contestant dared to reveal several truths of his life only because he somehow wanted to convey it to his parents. He really had some grave truths to reveal.” “He quit after winning 25 Lakhs because he did not want to play for money anymore. He only played the game for his dear ones,” adds the source. Contestant can quit at any stage and take the money they have earned and go home. Maximum amount that can be earned is Rs. One crore.
Desi-version of ‘Moment Of Truth’ has subtly become a platform to make confessions. Wonder if people are taking the game seriously or just playing agony aunt. Are the audiences game for something like this when the world is full of lies and double standard? But most of all, the million dollar question remains; can an honest person worth Rs. One crore be found on the show.
If Rakhi Sawant went on Sach Ka Saamna
If Rakhi Sawant went on Sach Ka Saamna
What would happen if you combined television's hottest new shows Rakhi Ka Swayamvar and Sach Ka Saamna?
The reason I'm asking is because often, when I watch Rakhi Sawant on television, I wonder: who exactly is she trying to fool? Don't get me wrong, I'm as addicted to the show as all of you are, but at times the show seems more fiction than non-fiction.
And what about all those contestant-grooms who keep saying they would do anything for Rakhi? Hmm. Now that Sach Ka Saamna has gone on air, I'm sure NDTV Imagine's kicking themselves for not thinking of the idea--they could easily have made all contestants undertake a polygraph test where they had to answer one question honestly to be part of this show: Do you really want to marry Rakhi Sawant?
As for Rakhi Sawant, I can think of lots of questions Sach Ka Saamna host Rajeev Khandelwal could ask her.
Did you think the show would be such a hit?
Were you planning to get married when you started this show?
Now that the show is a hit, have you changed your mind?
Will you actually marry a poor man?
Do you want to have sex with Manmohan Tiwari?
Are those real tears?
Is this the real Rakhi Sawant?
Do you enjoy playing the part of demure bride?
Do you like wearing all these Indian outfits?
Do you find Toronto businessman Elesh Parujanwala boring?
Isn't he the most likely to win because he is wealthy?
Do you think Indian men are boring?
Have you undergone botox treatments for your swayamvar?
Did you know beforehand that the Kashmiri policeman contestant on your show was already married?
Did you drop Luv from the show for shock value?
Is the show rigged?
If your ex-boyfriend Abhishek proposed, would you marry him?
Is he going to come on your show?
Do you think Manas is too young?
etc etc etc