The Big Bang comes to an End

The Big Bang theory is a theory (no need to sigh now) in Physics that seeks to explain the origins of the universe. How the universe, as we know it today (maybe without the hole in the Ozone), came to exist. And that pretty much concludes everything I know about the cosmological theory.

A search on - of course Google, what else – presents us with fifteen or so results that come up, out of which just one talks of the theory (dear Wikipedia). All other links and media point to The Big Bang Theory- the sitcom.

The show is about a group of socially awkward scientists whose habits are challenged by a free spirited neighbour. The very first episode of the series aired in September 2007, while the last episode of the last season aired about a year back. That’s a whopping 12 year run, with 232 episodes (having distinct amusing names) of 20 minutes each. Do the math.

As in any long running show, the characters mature over the seasons and varying undercurrents of their nature come to the fore. The transformation of Leonard, Penny, Raj, Howard and Sheldon, in particular, is leaps and bounds. The principal creators Chuck Lorre and Bill Prady have done an incredible job on portraying the transformation, yet retaining the essence of what makes these characters what they are.

Some prime undertones of the series need to be mentioned here.

The group, as a whole, becomes increasingly tolerant towards the extreme quirks (as President Seibert would put it) of Sheldon. Leonard, especially, makes truckloads of adjustments to accommodate Sheldon. He also forms a kind of magnet for the group, holding them together.

Penny’s career presents a stark reality to many. While aspiring towards a dream career in acting, she realizes that it may not be her cup of tea and consciously chooses another not-so-satisfying, yet steady job.

Howard, after the marriage, becomes much more responsible towards family and leaves the bulk of his adolescent traits behind.

Raj represents a very Indian side to the story, with instances of parental pressure and pampering in the limelight. His decision to forego his “allowance” from his parents and leave behind his beloved lifestyle is a reflection of his personal growth.

Outside the purview of the cameras, the five main characters (Sheldon (Jim Parsons), Leonard (Johnny Galecki), Penny (Kaley Cuoco), Raj (Kunal Nayyar), Howard (Simon Helberg)) took a $100,000 pay cut each to support pay parity for their co-stars Mayim Bialik (Amy) and Melissa Rauch (Bernadette) who joined in the later seasons.

And so on... Fans took to social media platforms for showing their disappointment after learning that the season 12 was the curtain call for the series. But unlike the famed Game of Thrones' infamy of an ending, I am sure fans would agree that BBT did sign off on a high.