The recent resolution of Tehreek e Insaaf lawmaker to ban on Hindi-dubbed Japanese cartoon series “Doraemon” has received sarcastic criticism and sardonic remarks at social media and by opposition parties. The resolution was chided and lambasted as it was unlike to other social, economic and political crisis of the country. Without indulging in the rampant debate to justify or contradict this resolution I would simply suggest that today we are living in technological era and it is quite inconceivable and unfeasible to ban any cartoon, drama or movie as this digital revolution has completely transformed our perception, attitude and provided access to everything. Recently, we also witnessed that whenever any Bollywood movie was banned, on the same day it was available online and downloaded even without visiting DVD shop. Similarly in case of ban on Dorameon, children will visit YouTube to meet with their favorite character. Instead of banning the cartoon there should have been counter narrative and there is dire need to strengthen our TV and film industry to make our own cartoons which reflects our culture, values, traditions and identity.
It is also matter of fact that no one can deny with the adverse effects and serious ramifications of Indian soap serials, movies and cartoon as our language, culture and values are severely affected and damaged. I teach my nephew at evening and one day during translation activity he translated an English sentence “She is a beautiful girl” like “woe ek sunder larki he”. We are frequently observing that children are intensely inspired, captivated and obsessed with these cartoon characters as these children are known to be glued to their screens at home in front of the television or on their PCs and they even try to follow and copy their language, gesture and idiosyncrasies without having knowledge of its detrimental effects.
This furious tendency has been affecting a child’s health, wellbeing, their mind and jeopardising their identity, study and objective of life. Their ability to concentrate on the task at hand is significantly reduced by the distraction that is brought about by excessive addiction to watch these fantasy cartoons every time. This is very alarming scenario and parents, teachers and civil society must realise the gravity of situation. It is the need of the hour that there should be proper counseling of children and it would better if some strict regulations are made in this regard. Children must be aware about the pros and cons in friendly way by family members, teachers and mentors and they must be encouraged and motivated to spend their time in healthy activities.
Imran Ali Phull
Karachi