Although the genre existed since the early years of television, the popularity has gained momentum only recently.
The never ending soaps and similar story lines on almost all channels have ensured that audiences take a liking to the reality television.
Observers say that the trend to take to reality shows came in a big way after 'Nach Baliye', 'Jhalak Dikhla Ja' and 'Indian Idol'. These shows along with 'Sa Re Ga Ma Pa' revolutionalised the television programming with more and more channels trying to cash in on their success.
'Ustaado Ke Ustad', 'Mr and Miss TV' (Sony), 'Comedy Ka King Kaun' (SAB), 'Jo Jita Wohi Superstar' (Star Plus) are some of the recent new shows.
Anooj Kapoor, business head of SAB TV told PTI that trends are common in television and films. "We give people what they like as their tastes and liking is important for our survival. Fatigue factor is creeping into daily soaps. Reality shows give a break from the fatigue factor. This scenario gives channels tremendous opportunities to try innovative content and give variety."
'Antakshri' and 'Sa Re Ga Ma' were the most popular formats of reality shows on Zee TV when satellite television first made an advent in the early 90s.
