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Viewers have same reaction to A Suitable Boy - including Fern Britton! 

The new series is based in 1950s India

suitable boy
Emmy Griffiths
TV & Film Editor
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Plenty of viewers tuned in to watch BBC's new drama A Suitable Boy on Sunday night. Based on the 1993 novel of the same name, the story follows Lata Mehra, a university student in India who wants to make her own way in life, while her mother is obsessed that she meet a 'suitable boy'. 

READ: Meet the all-star cast of BBC's A Suitable Boy

While fans and critics alike were hugely complimentary about the series, some people took to Twitter to in the episode, suggesting it was too slow. One person wrote: "Quite slow, but holding promise. I persevered and I think it will pick up. I do think the characters could’ve done with a bit more introduction," while another added: "I was really looking forward to it as I love anything set in India, the scenery the culture etc. I lasted [ten] minutes I'm afraid. Soooooo slow. Shame." 

suitable boy 6

What do you think of the new BBC drama?

However, others defended the opening episode, with one writing: "Don't get why everyone's hating on #ASuitableBoy - yes it's not the fastest paced thing out there but if you want fast-paced might I suggest that an adaptation of a very long family saga might not be the best thing to watch?" 

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Aside from some viewers struggling with the pacing, the episode was generally very well received, with one fan writing: "Enjoyed it very much. It will be a colourful watch the costumes are beautiful the actors excellent and the history of partition will be an interesting lesson.  Enjoy when you get a chance."

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The show is based on the 1993 novel

Fern Britton also voiced her excitement about watching the new series, tweeting: "I am really looking forward to #ASuitableBoy starting on @BBCONE tomorrow. I love India and have always wanted a beautiful sari and I have a soft spot for men in turbans. So dashing."