2-Minute Speech on The influence of Over-The-Top or OTT platforms on culture.
Over the last decade, India has witnessed a digital revolution, and at the forefront of this transformation are OTT platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+ Hotstar. These platforms have democratised content consumption, breaking the monopoly of traditional media houses and bringing global narratives directly into the hands of the Indian viewer.
However, while this digital accessibility has fostered creativity and diversity, it has also raised significant cultural questions. On one hand, OTT platforms have enabled the representation of marginalised voices—regional languages, alternative storylines, and taboo subjects now find space in mainstream discourse. Shows like Paatal Lok and Delhi Crime are testaments to how local stories can achieve global relevance.
On the other hand, the unregulated nature of this medium has sparked concerns about cultural erosion. Westernisation of content, explicit themes, and the blurring of traditional moral lines often provoke resistance, especially from conservative sections of society. Moreover, the binge-watching culture it promotes may affect interpersonal relationships and dilute the shared cultural rituals associated with collective TV viewing.
In conclusion, OTT platforms are not merely content distributors; they are cultural agents. Their impact is dual-edged—liberating yet challenging, inclusive yet controversial. As scholars, consumers, and creators, we must approach this phenomenon critically, fostering a balance between innovation and cultural preservation.