Bhubaneswar, Feb 6: Social media has rapidly become a powerful tool that connects people across the globe, and its influence is now reaching even the most remote corners of rural life. In rural communities, where traditions and simplicity once defined daily existence, social media is reshaping how people communicate, learn, and interact. While it offers opportunities for connection, access to information, and even economic growth, it also brings challenges such as increased mental health concerns, social pressures, and the struggle to balance modernity with tradition.
Filmmaker Snehasis Das is all set to unveil his much-anticipated web series, which takes an in-depth look at how social media is transforming the lives of rural communities in Odisha.
Titled ‘Naali Cha’, the six-episode series highlights the intersection of tradition and technology in rural Odisha, where smartphones and social media are slowly reshaping the fabric of village life.
Snehasis shared the core theme of the series, describing it as a story of a quiet yet profound revolution.
Social media affected all spheres of rural people’s lives, right from health care, and livelihood to traditions etc. In the heart of rural Odisha, where tradition and simplicity have long defined everyday life, a quiet revolution is unfolding. The arrival of smartphones and widespread access to social media has begun to weave their way into the fabric of village life, bringing profound changes both visible and subtle. Our story follows the lives of several villagers as they navigate the intersection of their day-to-day life in this digital age, said Snehasis.
Rural youth frequently engage in multifaceted activities and technology through the use of numerous social media platforms. Social media has different effects on young people's lives on both ends; the benefits of social media for today's youth include keeping them informed of global events and allowing them to network and stay in touch with friends. At other times these effects are bad for the user including suicide, anxiety, depression, physical, emotional, mental, and psychological problems, he added.
The story highlights the resilience of the villagers as they adapt to these changes. Through heartwarming moments of connection and collaboration, they learn to harness the power of social media to enhance their lives while finding ways, said the filmmaker.
Notably, the series will be released on February 9 at a special screening event at the Odissi Research Centre in Bhubaneswar. Following the screening, ‘Naali Cha’ will be made available on YouTube for wider audiences to enjoy.
With its engaging storyline and timely exploration of the impact of technology on rural life, this web series promises to be a thought-provoking and heartwarming portrayal of how tradition and modernity collide in the digital age.
