Screening Culture, Viewing Politics: An Ethnography of Television, Womanhood, and Nation in Postcolonial India : Book Review

"Screening Culture, Viewing Politics" by Purnima Mankekar is a captivating exploration of how culture, politics, and media intersect in postcolonial India. The book delves into the influence of cinema and television on societal norms, identities, and aspirations in the nation, examining various genres and shows. One notable strength of Mankekar's work is her ability to connect theory with ethnographic research, grounding her arguments in real-life examples and personal narratives. This approach makes her analysis accessible to a wide range of readers, even those unfamiliar with academic terminology. Furthermore, her interdisciplinary approach, combining media studies, anthropology, and political theory, adds depth and complexity to her analysis.

An important focus of the book is the agency and resistance of marginalized groups, challenging dominant ideologies and prejudices. Mankekar presents a nuanced understanding of how these communities negotiate and contest power structures through media. She demonstrates that cinema and television can serve as tools for social change as well as sites of struggle and negotiation within a rapidly changing society.

Additionally, "Screening Culture, Viewing Politics" sheds light on the impact of transnational media and its implications for local cultures. Mankekar explores how global media influences and reconfigures local identities and imaginations. She also unpacks the tensions between global capitalism and cultural authenticity, revealing the complex ways in which India navigates its relationship with the West.

In conclusion, Purnima Mankekar's "Screening Culture, Viewing Politics" provides a compelling analysis of the role of cinema and television in shaping cultural and political dynamics in India. Its accessible writing style, interdisciplinary approach, and attention to marginalized voices make it a valuable resource for scholars and general readers interested in media studies, anthropology, and postcolonial studies.

The book "Screening Culture, Viewing Politics" by Purnima Mankekar has received a range of reactions from readers. It delves into the complex relationship between media representation, politics, and identity, with a specific focus on the portrayal of South Asian diasporic communities in film and television.

Many readers praised the book for its insightful analysis of how media representation intersects with politics. They found Mankekar's examination of South Asian representation in popular media to be comprehensive and thought-provoking. These readers appreciated the author's in-depth exploration of the subject matter and her ability to highlight the nuanced implications.

However, some readers expressed disappointment with the book. They felt that its structure was lacking coherence and that its argumentation was not clear, which made it difficult to follow. Some readers found the writing style to be too academic and dry, making it less engaging to read. Additionally, a few reviewers noted that the book could have been made more accessible and relatable to a wider audience.

On a positive note, many readers commended Mankekar on her extensive research, which supported her arguments effectively. By utilizing case studies and examples, she shed light on how media influences societal perceptions of cultural and political issues. These readers found the book to be a valuable source of insights in this regard.

Despite these positive aspects, there were readers who felt that certain aspects of the book were not sufficiently explored or addressed. Some reviewers desired a broader analysis of media and politics, beyond the scope of South Asian representation. Additionally, a few readers felt that the book lacked a coherent framework and failed to present a clear thesis or overarching argument.

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