Hindi Prime-Time News and the Construction of Public Discourse: A Critical Perspective

Abstract

This research investigates the role of prime-time Hindi news in shaping public discourse through a critical discourse analysis (CDA) approach. In India, where Hindi is the most widely spoken language, prime-time news broadcasts hold significant sway over public opinion. This study delves into how these news programs select, frame, and present stories, influencing societal norms and political perspectives. The analysis considers the historical context of media evolution post-liberalization, the economic imperatives driving sensationalism, and the sociopolitical environment that news channels operate within. By examining the language, narratives, and visual elements used in prime-time Hindi news, the research uncovers the subtle and overt ways media shapes public discourse. This study highlights the power dynamics embedded in news production and dissemination, revealing how news channels can both reflect and construct social realities. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for fostering a more informed and critically engaged public, essential for the health of democratic society. The findings aim to contribute to the broader discourse on media influence, offering insights into the complexities of news media's role in a diverse and pluralistic society like India