Will the serial killer strike again? As IPL 2 begins today, the TV industry ponders over its impact

The predator is on the prowl again. Last year, it feasted on the hapless saas-bahus of our television. The weekend reality shows were devoured easily. The ‘serial’ killer Indian Premier League is back. But will it be an easy catch for IPL again? Or is the prey going to put a up a brave fight? Before we get the TV industry’s perspective, one needs to look at the predator too. IPL is finally getting under way today but not before it’s crossed many glitches and territories too. Unable to guarantee security at the time of the Lok Sabha elections, the Indian government requested the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to postpone the cash-rich event. However, there was plenty at stake and so, in a bizarre move, the Board shifted the event out of the country. South Africa emerged as new home to IPL. Critics and some former cricketers denounced this move. After all, how can an ‘Indian’ domestic cricket tournament take place in a foreign land? The IPL was built on the premise of city-based-loyalty. Will, the South African public accept Mumbai, Delhi or Kolkata as their own? That’s an answer only time will tell. For now though, let’s see whether the industry still perceives IPL as threat or have they taken any defensive measures? Months before the IPL, the word drumming in the industry was that of caution. Channel executives and the producers were toeing just one line – we’ll come up with new shows only after IPL. Sony has already pressed the revamp button whereby new shows are slated on go on air a day after IPL culminates. SAB too has opted for the safer option. The big guns Colors, Star Plus and Zee too supposedly are following the same route. Colors though can spring a surprise by launching a fiction show. Promos of Shreya Creations’ Bhagya Vidhata have been in full flow. It was earlier speculated that the show will launch in the first week of April. Launching a show during IPL, is it wise or suicidal?