In a country where TV shows are stereotyped as mere forms of entertainment, Satyamev Jayate managed to break it through the mold. The ground-breaking documentary-cum-talk show voiced out strong social messages and touched the lives of many. Conceived in 2012, the show was aired on Star Network and ran three successful seasons consisting of 24 episodes each.
The show, with its unique concept, dealt with a number of social issues in India and discussed possible solutions for the same. Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan, hosted the show every season and managed to win hearts with his sincere charm and conviction. Right from the airing of the first episode, the TRPs blew through the roof.
Each episode presented a social issue that was widely prevalent and backed by extensive research. The issues taken up during each episode stirred up strong emotions among the audiences and brought about a sense of unity. It made them believe in the power of change and encouraged them to act for the betterment of the society.
The impact was not just restricted to social media likes and calls, alone. The show literally became the talk of the town. The genuine approach towards fighting the evils of the society attracted audiences of all ages. Here’s how some of the most impactful and emotionally charged episodes brought about a social shift.
1. Female Foeticide
The very first episode spoke about the sensitive issue of female foeticide. The episode was emotionally stirring and impacted the Indian audiences deeply. Within a week of the telecast of the Satyamev Jayate female foeticide episode, the then Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Ashok Gehlot called an emergency meeting to formulate a plan combating the issue. Apart from this, the then Rajasthan High Court Chief Justice Arun Mishra approved setting up of a Fast Track Court (FTC) for speeding the trail in the female feticide cases. As a result of Satyamev Jayate effect, the Rajasthan Government also carried out 20 sting operations in 2012 and 2013 and canceled licenses of 150 centers and many doctors. Besides, the Madhya Pradesh Government canceled licenses of 65 Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) centers.
2. Affordable Healthcare
In the fourth episode of the first season of the show, Aamir Khan spoke about low-cost generic medicines and how it may help in making healthcare affordable. Due to the Satyamev Jayate impact, the Maharashtra Government announced that generic medicines will be made available in government hospitals. It also said that government-aided medical stores will be set up across the state. Apart from this, the Madhya Pradesh Government began conducting free medical tests and distributing free medicines.
3. Other Impacts
The second episode of the first season of Satyamev Jayate highlighted the issue of child sexual abuse. After this episode, the Child helpline 1098 was extended to 291 districts. The second season of the show started with the issue of fighting rape. As a result, a one-stop crisis center(OSCC) called Gauravi was inaugurated at a hospital in Bhopal. The center helps rape victims to register complaints, get medical treatments, and counseling services, among others. Additionally, the third episode of the second season of the show inspired the ‘Waste Free Jodhpur’ campaign of the Rajasthan Government, which aims for a healthier and cleaner society.
Through Satyamev Jayate, Aamir Khan has impacted Indian society in different ways. The show was applauded by viewers including many celebrities and governments. Actors like Shabana Azmi, Boman Irani, Preity Zinta, and Farhan Akhtar were outspoken about their love for the show.
Read how Star is using television to create a change in India.