CSS Forums - Pakistani Media Industry

Electronic media in Pakistan has come a long way. From its humble beginnings in 1964, Pakistan's lone state television channel, PTV, has now been transgressed by at least 30 private satellite channels, all in the last five years. Not to be left behind, PTV has its own offspring of five sister channels. Several other channels are still waiting in the wings, pending either licensing or launch. From the days when gathering around television for the eight o'clock drama or the nine o'clock khabarnama (news) was a family event, the Pakistani audience is now spoilt for choice in local entertainment, news, sports, music and current affairs. The Musharraf government has brought about a media revolution, indeed, but by doing so it has opened a virtual Pandora's Box.

After years of state imposed restrictions, the electronic media finally seemed to get the 'freedom' to air no holds barred broadcasts. With the launch of GEO TV in 2001, the brainchild of one of Pakistan's leading media barons, Pakistan was suddenly offered the refreshing prospect of young, intelligent faces, groundbreaking local news and the exposé of issues hitherto unheard of on Pakistani television. The experience was raw, fresh and exciting.

Entertainment channels followed suit with mega serials and soap-operas hitting television screens by the dozen. Exotic foreign locations and model-turned-actors sported the latest in Western fashions, oozing painted sex-appeal. The music scene also received a tremendous boost. Twenty-four hour music channels began sponsoring young, new talent. Ordinary boys and girls became stars overnight. Everyone wanted to join a TV channel.