Date:15/06/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/06/15/stories/2006061503810200.htm

Karnataka - Bangalore

Blogs evolving as alternative media

Staff Reporter

With their numbers exceeding 50 million, they discuss issues neglected by mainstream media

Blogs have content on almost anything under the sun

They serve as online diaries for some and enhance creativity

Bangalore: Almost 50 million weblogs (blogs) online and growing, the blogosphere seems to be the most captivating space on the Web where people voice their opinions and involve other bloggers as well. It is evolving as an alternative media and that also discusses issues neglected by the mainstream media.

There is an emerging orientation towards these discussion forums among the younger generation. For Romal (21), who has been blogging for almost two years, "It is a space where I am free to speak my mind and leave my thoughts open to the world." A blog also serves as an agent to connect with people globally and to know more about their problems and concerns.

Amateur journalists also use this self-publishing device. However, some consider it as only a forum that induces mob-mentality and a negative outburst of opinions. Shashank, a journalism student, believes "it is an elite outlet to one's freedom of expression."

Blogs are popular because they come at no cost. Small organisations and individuals are making use of it because of its easy-to-use features. Blogs also serve as online diaries for some and enhance creativity. Personal blogs are a pervasive phenomenon and people write on a wide range of issues.