Even before the news channels can mutate any further, the entertainment channels have already done their bit, by moving heavily into mythology, where extraordinary feats and supernatural events are the star attractions. The epics reinforce our belief in other worldly forces in control of our lives. There’s been resurgence in myth and epics: NDTV Imagine launched itself, early this year with Ramayana as its flagship. Last week, it added Mahima Shaani Maharaj Ki to its evening schedule. The new channel, Colours, has Jai Shri Krishna as its trump card, and Ekta Kapoor’s Kahaani Hamaaray Mahaabhaarat Ki premiered this month on 9X. “Traditional beliefs are being brightened and reinstated. Though mythology is good as an art form and should be appreciated as great literature, the combination of mythology and superstition is creating a disease,” says Edamaruku.
He should know. It tried to kill him.