09122024-LSTL-01.qxd 12/8/2024 8:22 PM Page 1 c m y b ALL IS WELL NOW Renowned filmmaker Subhash Ghai has reassured fans about his health after being admitted to Mumbai’s Lilavati Hospital due to health concerns. The 79-year-old director, known for his iconic Bollywood films, took to social media to update his followers, stating that he is now in good health. TRIBUNE Celebrations... Life Veteran actor Dharmendra celebrated his 89th birthday on Sunday. On the occasion, he was seen with his sons, Sunny and Bobby at his bungalow. Hema Malini also shared a social a social media post. LUDHIANA | MONDAY | 9 DECEMBER 2024 Mic drops, but misogyny remains Sheetal I RINKU GHOSH SUBUHII JOSHI N the sweltering streets of Delhi and Mumbai, a cultural phenomenon is unfolding. Indian rap music has emerged as a powerful force, giving voice to the frustrations, aspirations, and stories of a generation. However, beneath the surface of this vibrant movement lies a disturbing reality — one of entrenched misogyny, casual sexism, and blatant objectification. Recently, Neha Bhasin called out Indian hip hop scene for this underlying misogyny in rap lyrics. “ (I) Am so fed up of below average male rappers and ‘wanna-be’ singers calling women weird stuff in their songs. And all Indian men and women folks are okay with it. Is there a limit to the hypocrisy in India? Ladka kare to bhai, dude. Ladki kare toh character dheela (If men do it they are called a dude, but if the women do the same, she is called loose character),” posted the Dhunki hitmaker on social media. As we delve into the world of Indian rap, we confront a troubling question: Can a genre that claims to speak truth to power truly be revolutionary if it perpetuates the same patriarchal attitudes it seeks to dismantle? At the same time many celebrities comment on Indian music in general and how rap is no different. Examples of misogynist lyrics in Indian rap songs are alarming. Songs like Buzz with lyrics ‘Jahan se hona chahiye wahi se hai tu thick’ or Pagal with lyrics, Shakal hai Indian body Latina and many more like them, contribute to a culture that demeans and dehumanises women. Rappers like Yo Yo Honey Singh, Badshah, Raga, Harjas, Bali, Fotty Seven contribute to this and the bigger problem is that budding rap artistes also look up to them for inspiration. Singer Shibani Kashyap weighs in on the issue, saying, “Misogyny in rap songs is a significant prob- Can rap that claims to speak truth to power truly be revolutionary if it perpetuates the same patriarchal attitudes it seeks to dismantle, celebs weigh in SHIVANGI VERMA NAMITA LAL SHIBANI KASHYAP lem that reflects a deeper cultural problem. As an artiste, I believe music should inspire and empower, not degrade or demean. Songs with offensive lyrics that perpetuate stereotypes and disrespect women have no place in the public domain. Such content not only distorts the essence of music but also impacts young, impressionable minds.” The issue of misogyny in Indian music is not limited to rap. Bollywood songs like Munni Badnaam Hui from Dabangg and Fevicol Se from Dabangg 2 have also faced criticism for their lyrics and presentation. Actress Shivangi Verma shared, “Songs like Fevicol Se reflect a certain style of entertainment that caters to mass appeal. While such tracks often ignite debates about their lyrics or presentation, it’s essential to view them in the context of the storyline and target audience.” Verma adds, “As an artiste, I believe creative expression should aim to entertain while being mindful of its broader societal impact.” She praises Kareena Kapoor’s performance in Fevicol Se, saying, “The way Kareena Kapoor carried herself was exemplary.” This raises questions about the role of women in Indian music and the impact of their representation on societal attitudes. Actress Rinku Ghosh, known for her work in Bhojpuri cinema, shared her perspective on the issue. “Songs like Munni Badnaam Hui have become iconic, but I do feel that they sometimes reduce women to mere objects of desire. While they’re meant to be entertaining, it’s important to reflect on how such representations influence society and the values we uphold,” she expressed. However, not everyone agrees that these songs are a cause for concern. Actress Namita Lal offers a more nuanced view, “In my view, songs are the reflection of the society or the norms that we are living with. So if there are songs with misogyny and yet these are popular, people dance to them in a party, night club or functions, then I guess we shouldn’t be bothered about it. It’s a personal choice to listen or not listen to a song, but if a song with objectionable misogynist lyrics is popular, then there’s a market for it. The way the shelf life of music is these days, if we raise an issue, it becomes a big thing; the right thing would be to let it go into oblivion.” According to actress Subuhii Joshi some songs do end up being sleazy in Bollywood. Aesthetic and vulgarity sometimes have thin line. She adds, “Sheila Ki Jawani might have some odd lyrics but it was nicely shot and Katrina Kaif did full justice to it and even Fevikol Se on Kareena Kapoor looked good. Women attributes are highlighted in certain songs and that is a reality. How it is shot and how it is presented matters and we shouldn’t be judgemental about rap songs.” While exploring the complexities of misogyny in Indian rap, we must consider the broader cultural context in which these attitudes thrive. Can Indian rap music truly be a force for change if it perpetuates the same patriarchal values that underpin Indian society? The answer remains uncertain, but one thing is clear — the conversation has only just begun. Not a laughing matter Actor Sanjay Mishra says he is grateful to directors who gave him the opportunities to play diverse characters, especially in an industry that is fixated on casting him in comedic roles. The actor has established a name for himself, primarily through comedic roles in films like Golmaal: Fun Unlimited, Dhamaal, All the Best: Fun Begins, Bunty Aur Babli, and Bhool Bhulaiyaa two and three, among others. Sanjay Mishra speaks of actors being typecast, and the constant struggle to break the mould At the same, Mishra has also showcased his range as an actor with performancedriven parts in films such as Ankhon Dekhi, Masaan, Vadh, and Bhakshak. “Rajat Kapoor and Subhash Kapoor allowed me to be part of movies like Ankhon Dekhi and Phas Gaye Re Obama respectively. But here in the industry, they offer similar roles to an actor. For instance, they need Johnny Lever, and Sanjay Mishra for a particular scene in a movie, and cast them in those parts,” Mishra said in an interview. Citing the example of late Hindi cinema icon Mehmood, the actor said people knew him mostly for comedic roles but he also made Kunwara Baap, a film with a serious message about polio vaccination. “If you don’t take a chance, then how will things change?” he asked. Mishra believes that it is the fear of losing money that prevents filmmakers from casting actors like him in more unconventional roles. “A lot of money goes into making a movie. For instance, if I would’ve got the role of Bhoot in Bhool Bhulaiyaa, then the film would be minus Rs. 400 crores. “In the industry, it is fixed that this kind of role is made for so-and-so actors because it is about math (return on investment). That’s why content-driven films are being made and you can do what you wish to do (with them),” he said. Mishra, however, is committed to exploring diverse roles. He is set to appear in the upcoming feature Jaaiye Aap Kahan Jaayenge, a fictional tale where a man named Kishan attempts to do good for society, especially women, by innovating a mobile toilet rickshaw to overcome this challenge. The film stars Karan Aanand as Kishan, also known as Sadhu, Mishra as the father, Adrija as the daughter, and Monal Gajjar as the wife, alongside Ishtiyaq Khan, Neeraj Sood, Subrat Dutta, and Hrishita Bhatt in pivotal roles. Mishra recounts his collaborative journey with director Nikhil Raj Singh and said the film developed during their road trips across India. “We should do some films that other people will talk about and say to you, ‘I’ll watch the film too... When you are a part of a story since its development stage, then you’ve to do it. I’m sure people in the future will say, ‘You did a good film’.” The film, which was released recently on Prasar Bharati’s new OTT space, Waves, will open in theatres on December 20. — PTI NIKKHIL ARYA DEEKSHHA SONALKAR DEVANGGANA CHAUHAN AADESH CHAUDHARY SRIKANT DWIVEDI Celebrities speak on changes to shape the industry’s future For a better tomorrow The entertainment industry has always been a dynamic field, constantly evolving to adapt to societal changes, technological advancements, and audience preferences. However, many celebrities believe there is still room for growth and improvement. They share insights into two significant changes that could foster a more inclusive, efficient and sustainable entertainment world. FOR MENTAL HEALTH: Deekshha Sonalkar Tham The industry needs more mental health support systems for actors and crew members. Working in a high-pressure environment often leads to burnout. Also, I’d love for the industry to prioritise original scripts over remakes or adaptations. Authentic storytelling connects better with audiences and allows for creative exploration. c m y b GET MATURE: Devanggana Chauhan The media needs to shift focus from sensationalism to thoughtful, positive storytelling. It would be great to see more emphasis on our work and contributions rather than personal controversies. Also, celebrities are expected to maintain unrealistic standards of fitness and beauty. I’d like to see the industry embrace more realistic expectations and support holistic wellness for everyone involved. Only someone with extraordinary passion would venture into creating meaningful content, whether it’s a sincere film or a series. CELEBRATE EQUALITY: Aadesh Chaudhary Supporting roles are as vital as lead roles. The industry should promote all contributors equally, giving credit where it’s due. I hope for a system that celebrates quality performances and creative risks, regardless of commercial success. Awards and recognition should reflect artistic value. NO GROUPISM PLEASE: Nikkhil Arya I would like to see less groupism of any kind in the entertainment industry. People should look beyond the glamour and acknowledge it as a serious business. It is one of the most challenging industries, demanding immense hard work and intent. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY: Srikant Dwivedi The focus is often on big-budget films or mainstream content. I’d like to see equal recognition for theatre, indie films, and web series, as they are vital parts of the industry. — Dharam Pal