On the eve of World Television Day, actress Shweta Katariaa shares why television continues to hold emotional significance even in a digital era.
She reflects on childhood memories, changing viewing habits, and the timeless togetherness that TV continues to create.
As the world prepares to celebrate World Television Day tomorrow, actress Shweta Katariaa, currently seen in Rahul Kumar Tewary’s Jagadhatri, reflects on the medium’s enduring charm. For her, no amount of technological advancement can replace the sense of togetherness, comfort, and nostalgia that television has given generations.
Shweta fondly recalls her childhood memories of TV as moments filled with warmth and connection. She shares, “My earliest memory of watching television is sitting with my family in the living room after dinner, waiting for our favourite show to start. Everyone came together, laughed, and discussed the story or characters. Those moments made television feel magical to me. It wasn’t just about watching a show, it was about sharing time and emotions with the people I love.”
Reflecting on how viewing habits have evolved, she says,
“Television has come a long way. With OTT platforms, viewers can now watch anything, anytime, on any device. Yet TV continues to hold its own, bringing stories to life for millions and creating shared moments that connect us all.”
Even in a digital-first world, Shweta believes television retains its emotional power. She says, “Television is unique because it brings people together. Live events, family dramas, and major shows create shared experiences. TV also carries a sense of trust and reliability, the stories are crafted with care and reach such a wide audience. Digital offers convenience, but TV connects people in meaningful and lasting ways.”
On why daily soaps continue to dominate households, she adds, “Daily soaps and reality shows still have a strong emotional connection with audiences. People relate to the characters and the stories. Even with OTT offering endless options, these shows remain part of daily routines, giving comfort, familiarity, and a sense of connection.”
If she could revisit a particular era of television, Shweta knows exactly where she’d go. “I would bring back the golden age of family dramas that brought everyone together in the living room. The storytelling, characters, and emotions were so relatable that they became part of everyday life. That warmth and sense of togetherness would still resonate today,” she says.
