𝐄𝐯𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐰𝐬 𝐅𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐁𝐫𝐨𝐚𝐝𝐜𝐚𝐬𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐃𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐬

…𝒂𝒔 𝒕𝒓𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒂𝒍 𝒏𝒆𝒕𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒌𝒔 𝒆𝒗𝒐𝒍𝒗𝒆, 𝒐𝒏𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒆 𝒑𝒍𝒂𝒕𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒎𝒔 𝒔𝒉𝒂𝒑𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒇𝒖𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒖𝒏𝒔𝒄𝒓𝒊𝒑𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒕𝒂𝒊𝒏𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒕𝒓𝒚

By Ngawang Jamphel

Since the inception of the first reality show on national television in 2008, the genre has witnessed a remarkable surge in popularity, spawning numerous programs over the years. Today, Bhutan boasts six prominent reality shows on television: Druk Super Star, Druk Gi Kalapingka, The Voice of Bhutan, DrinchenPhamiSungkey, Druk Gi Tsepoem, and Palden Drukpa. However, recent years have seen the emergence of new shows utilizing various platforms such as OTT services, YouTube, and Facebook for screening.

The proliferation of reality shows reveals the lasting allure of unscripted entertainment among audiences. Spanning talent competitions and lifestyle showcases, these programs offer viewers a diverse array of content, reflecting the cultural fabric and aspirations of Bhutanese society.

In the digital age, reality television has evolved beyond traditional broadcast platforms, thanks to the advent of Over-the-Top (OTT) services and the ubiquity of social media. Platforms like YouTube and Facebook have become instrumental in democratizing access to the production and distribution of reality content, allowing aspiring talents and independent producers to showcase their creativity to a global audience.

According to Kencho Wangdi, Director and Organizer of Druk Superstar, “The one reason for choosing social media platforms like Facebook and YouTube over BBS is the freedom to run the show. At Bhutan Broadcasting Service (BBS-The national television), we are bound by certain rules and ethics of the company. Whereas, on social media platforms, we can run the show as per our will.”

Furthermore, Kezang Phuntsho, Show Director, and Organizer of Druk Gi Kalapingka shared the same opinion, noting that it provides more job opportunities for youth working as cameramen, lighting technicians, and in various other roles when streamed live on Facebook or YouTube.

Another reality show, Multi-talent of Drukyul, which not only provides a platform for youths to showcase their singing talent but also other talents like acting, has also entered the market in recent years. Show director and Organizer of Multi-talent of Drukyul and Bhutan Idol, Sonam Tenzin, expressed a different opinion for choosing online platforms over BBS. He said, “Online platforms are more cost-effective than BBS, as we have to pay around Nu. 1500,000 just to broadcast the entire show, which on online platforms costs much less. On top of that, we have to follow timing on national television, but on online platforms, we can schedule our own timing and watch whenever we are free, as the live streaming gets saved on our online streaming pages.”

Gyelden Lhamo, a resident of Thimphu, remarked, “The number of television viewers has decreased due to smartphones. I also prefer phones over television as they are more portable, and I can watch the shows that I love wherever and whenever I want. Additionally, not everyone can afford to buy a television, but mobile phones are way cheaper.”

As the realm of reality television continues to expand, driven by technological advancements and changing viewer preferences, the future promises even greater diversity and experimentation in content creation and delivery. From conventional networks to digital platforms, reality shows remain a dynamic and integral part of Bhutanese entertainment culture, captivating audiences with their blend of drama, talent, and authenticity.