Book Review: The 6pm Slot

Nowadays, with the number of shows on television increasing and the channels being out on a fierce TRP war, the viewers are left wondering about the existing competition and the extent of truth (or the lack of it) in these shows. First-time author Naomi Datta, in her book ‘The 6pm Slot’, reveals as to what lies behind the wise camera lens, away from the flashy sets and inside the creative minds. She puts forth the reality of television in such an intriguing way that you can just not keep the book down. 

‘Welcome to the world of television, where nothing is ever what it appears.’

What appears to be a love show being launched by YTV, is the brainchild of the PPT obsessed whimsical boss, Rahul, to pep up the channel's 6pm slot TRP by using the good old ‘sex sells’ formula. His ideas are yes-yes’d and fucking awesome’d by the spineless Harish whose only aim is to be in Rahul's best books. 

The responsibility of implementing these ideas is given to our protagonist Tania, who until now was doing a celebrity pet show. As per the boss' instructions a scantily clad female host with ‘thunder thighs’, a terrible accent and a terrifying IQ is approached (where the former quality overpowers the latter two), spicy love problems are added (both real and not-so-real) and the talk show is ready to be served. Although the show initially doesn't garner the expected attention, a single phone call from a distressed dying girl changes everything.

The way things unfold, gives the face of Indian News Television, Rajneesh Tiwari, the story of his life. From candle marches to searching Jassi in Chandigarh, he leaves no stone unturned to make sure that the TRP of his show increases by leaps and bounds. He sensationalizes the story by tampering emotions and questioning humanity, yet again proving that viewers are nothing but idiots!

Amidst this workplace chaos, is a romantic triangle. One of its vertices, Aditya, is responsible for helping Tania maintain her sanity through the commotion. I absolutely loved his dark and dry wit, his matter-of-fact take on things, and his little pieces of advice to Tania throughout. Now, who wouldn't want a colleague like that?! His presence in the plot was refreshing. I would have loved to have him more (everywhere!) in the story. 

Even the other characters are portrayed pretty well; the successful silent lover Bose, the overtly enthusiastic intern Mohawk, the typically agent-like Nair, the sensible journalist Geeta and so on. The scenario, politics and characters described in the book are true not just for the television industry but fit in for any workplace and this is what strikes a chord with the reader almost instantaneously.

The language used is natural with no shade of pretence. As the narration and backdrop goes, even the expletives don't appear to be too out of proportion. The best part about the book is that the situations and emotions have not been unnecessarily exaggerated which, thankfully, keeps the story close to reality and totally believable. Contrary to popular belief (and the book cover), it's not even close to be a usual chick-lit. Having the right amount of humour, sarcasm and twists, it is infact quite an interesting and quick read where I found myself chuckling throughout. Add to it, Naomi has not forgotten the surprise element at all, leading to a superb climax. 

As she concludes, ‘Nothing to do with television ever has a logical end. It just keeps coming back in circles.’

In a similar fashion, I hope Naomi circles back to yet another delightful book.