A recent dance performance by students at IIT Bombay has ignited a heated debate online, particularly on social media platforms. The performance, which took place on October 21, 2024, featured students dancing to the popular Bollywood song “Munni Badnaam.” The video of this event quickly went viral, gathering over 1.2 million views and sparking discussions about the appropriateness of such performances in an academic setting.
Main Points
The Dance Performance
The dance was organized by students from Hostel 5 at IIT Bombay, one of India’s top engineering institutes. In the video, students are seen performing in casual attire, with one dancer notably dressed in a crop top and skirt. The performance drew cheers from the audience but also raised eyebrows among viewers who deemed it “vulgar” and inappropriate for a prestigious educational environment. Critics expressed concerns about the message such performances send regarding decorum in academic institutions.
IIT Bombay vulgar dance, what’s your opinion on this? pic.twitter.com/yf7grdHNxD
— theboysthing_ (@Theboysthing) October 18, 2024
Divided Opinions
The reaction to the dance has been sharply divided. Critics of the performance have taken to social media to voice their disapproval. Comments ranged from calling the performance “cheap” to questioning the educational values of the students involved. One user remarked that it does not reflect well on an institution known for its academic rigor, stating, “It doesn’t look like educated people”. Another user pointed out that such performances are a reflection of broader societal issues, suggesting that media and upbringing play significant roles in shaping young people’s behavior.
Conversely, many defended the students’ right to express themselves and enjoy their college life. Supporters argued that these students have worked hard to gain admission to IIT Bombay and deserve to celebrate their achievements. One user commented, “Those who can’t get into top institutions shouldn’t judge these talented students”. Another added that if this performance is considered vulgar, then protests should be directed at Bollywood and its influence on youth culture rather than at the students themselves.
Cultural Context
This incident highlights a larger cultural conversation in India about morality and expression in public spaces. The term “vulgar” has been used frequently in this debate, reflecting differing views on what constitutes acceptable behavior in educational institutions. Supporters of the performance suggest that it is merely a celebration of youth and creativity, while critics see it as a departure from traditional values associated with education.
Social Media Reactions
The video has sparked extensive discussions on platforms like X (formerly Twitter), where users have shared their opinions widely. Some expressed outrage over what they perceive as a decline in moral standards among youth today. Others countered this narrative by emphasizing that college is a time for exploration and self-expression.
For instance, one user argued that “If this is considered vulgarity then do a protest in front of Mumbai film studios,” highlighting the inconsistency in how society views entertainment versus educational settings. Another user stated that such performances are common in college life across India, suggesting that this incident should not be singled out as particularly scandalous.
Institutional Response
As of now, there has been no official response from IIT Bombay regarding the performance or the ensuing debate. However, this incident may prompt discussions within the institution about student expression and the boundaries of acceptable behavior during campus events.
