There exist two distinct sets of audiences: one follows celebrity fashion and social updates with keen interest, observing what they wear and who they are seen with. On the flip side, another group prefers exploring substantial information, such as individuals who've represented India on the global stage in sports, arts, or literature, acknowledging noteworthy achievements. The media shoulders the significant responsibility of meeting the diverse needs of both of these audience groups.
Have you ever encountered situations where you easily found detailed information about a celebrity's outfit but struggled to find news about a sportsman's medal-winning achievement or an actor’s successful acting performance? Or vice versa? Often, everything seems to be covered, but what gains significant traction on the internet is solely based on the viewers' interests.
Suchitra Krishnamoorthi on 'Orry Culture' and How Dangerous It Is
Suchitra Krishnamoorthi, famous for her role alongside Shah Rukh Khan in Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa, recently via her Tweet raised concerns about something called the 'Orry' culture. She thinks that the media focuses a lot on celebrities' clothes and their lifestyles, forgetting to celebrate their professional successes. She feels the Hindi film industry has turned into a 'ticketed zoo.' Here, being seen matters more than talent, and success is all about being popular.
The actor went on to say, "And of how irresponsible our mainstream media has also become, that propagates this flamboyant extravagance circus( all paid ofcourse) where they chose to highlight the price of an isha ambanis or alia bhats dress rather than the achievements of an olympian or social worker or even a self-made hard-working entrepreneur." (sic)
Orry Reacts
Following the viral attention to her words, Orry responded on Instagram, expressing how those particular words "haunt him and keep him awake all night." He shared a screenshot of actor's words and wrote, “Who is this woman? And what even is Orry culture? What is going on? And why does she keep talking about me? I am so confused right now. I have never met her. And why is something someone’s friends saying making headlines? These are the questions that haunt me and keep me awake all night! (sic).”
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Is The Media Solely To Blame?
She wants the media to talk more about people who've worked hard to succeed, not just what famous people wear. However, there's room for debate on whether this approach by the media is entirely wrong or simply catering to what audiences want.
The person in the spotlight is Orhan Awatramani, popularly known as Orry, who has recently gained prominence despite being part of the entertainment industry for decades. Did people's comments on celebrity posts featuring Orry prompt the media to cover him in response to these inquiries? Alternatively, was it the media that began capturing Orry everywhere he went, leading to public curiosity about his identity?
The media covered Orry left, right, and centre, but they didn't dim the spotlight on every film released in 2023, including trailer launches, promotional events, premieres, and success celebrations. They kept tabs on both who wore what on the red carpet and who won what for which work on award podiums!
While some parts of media might prioritise superficial aspects over more substantial achievements, it's important to acknowledge that media coverage often caters to the public interest. It's a balance between what captures attention and what truly deserves recognition. There's room for improvement in terms of what gets highlighted, but not all media is solely focused on superficiality.
Views expressed by the author are their own
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