Korechi vs korsi: An analysis of the linguistic shift in Bangladeshi television dramas from the 1980s to the late 2000s

Abstract

This study looks into the reasons and impacts of the linguistic change in drama language by focusing on the viewers perspective. To gather necessary data, first of all, interviews were conducted. Moreover, for an unbiased analysis, public comment sections were also taken to analyze the general reaction. As for linguistic analysis, samples from different drama scenes from both times were also used. The result shows that preference of younger audience, liberty choice of the makers, and newly started craze of social media worked behind the beginning of colloquial Bengali in drama language. As for consequences, both positive and negative impacts can be observed, mostly the later one. From connecting the younger audience with their everyday language in dramas to misusing the colloquial linguistic pattern by including unnecessary curse words and slangs. By ensuring the proper use of language in dramas through well-written dialogues, careful moderation by the makers and adequate linguistic awareness of the audience, the betterment of drama language is possible.