A Study on the Use of Vulgar Language in Bangladeshi Web Series on OTT Platforms
Mazidul Islam and Samyabrata Dripta
Mass Communication and Journalism Discipline, Khulna University, Khulna, Bangladesh.
Abstract
This study explores the prevalence of vulgar language in Bangladeshi web series on Over The Top (OTT) platforms and how and why this language is used in Bangladeshi web series, and its cultural implications. In unfiltered narratives, web series as a medium have obsoleted the entertainment landscape. Using Stuart Hall’s representation theory, and a qualitative analysis of Shaaticup, Myself Allen Shwapon and Kacher Manush Dure Thuiya, the study categorized vulgar expressions into thematic contexts such as frustration, anger, threats, humor, and sadness. This analysis reveals that this language is a narrative tool used to increase realism, illustrate socio-economic struggle, and reinforce gendered power dynamics. While slang is true cultural authenticity, it’s also about a grey area for the normalization of slang, and where it might lead to a broader societal impact, a younger generation may be exposed to. This work unpacks the intersection of language, culture, and representation in digital storytelling and contributes to media studies by looking at the psychological and social effects of OTT content on its audience.
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