Restricted access | Chapter | First published June 30, 2026 | Part of Exploring Grassroot Realties: Insights From Student Led Community Research

11. Measuring Misfortune: A Framework for Identifying and Assessing Advertising in Rural Communities

Exploring Grassroot Realties: Insights From Student Led Community Research

Abstract

Advertising practices in rural India exist within a landscape that is distinctly different from urban advertising. Lower literacy levels, a variety of languages, seasonal income, and reliance on interpersonal trust create a different communication environment. The paper seeks to assess the role of the traditional media of wall painting, radio and fairs in combination with new media, like mobile videos and WhatsApp, in creating awareness, trust, and influencing the purchase behaviour of rural consumers. The paper discusses the results of a mixed-method research strategy, employing structured questionnaires and informal interviews conducted in Dadri, which is a semi-urban location in Gautam Buddh Nagar. The paper concludes that although the use of mobile-based advertisements is becoming more prevalent, advertisements that include visual cues that have been adapted to the local context are the most effective. Price, durability, and availability of a given product are the main factors determining purchase decisions. The paper offers recommendations for the development of culturally conscious, affordable and trust-based advertising strategies.

Chapter information

Chapter title Measuring Misfortune: A Framework for Identifying and Assessing Advertising in Rural Communities
Author(s) Ishika Sharma, Kavya Sirothiya
Book title Exploring Grassroot Realties: Insights From Student Led Community Research
Editor(s) Dr. Rajashree Sharma Adhikary, Dr. Mukta Martolia
Publication date June 30, 2026
Access Restricted access

How to cite

Ishika Sharma, Kavya Sirothiya. 2026. Measuring Misfortune: A Framework for Identifying and Assessing Advertising in Rural Communities. In: Dr. Rajashree Sharma Adhikary, Dr. Mukta Martolia (eds). Exploring Grassroot Realties: Insights From Student Led Community Research.

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