Several Indian colleges ban sexist singers from performing on campus

The move is in line with a history of activism.
 By 
Sohini Mitter
 on 
Original image replaced with Mashable logo
Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

Women's colleges affiliated with Delhi University (DU), one of India's top educational institutions, have put their feet down regarding misogyny.

Student unions have barred certain musicians whose lyrics they deem sexist from performing at upcoming student festivals.

Colleges such as Miranda House, Lady Shree Ram, Gargi and Kamla Nehru are leading the charge, the Times of India reported. Artists who "objectify women and make sexist comments in their songs" are not being invited, they say.

The banned performers include Punjabi rappers Yo Yo Honey Singh and Badshah among others. These singers are currently very popular in India thanks in part to their musical involvement in Bollywood films.

But their tunes have earned the ire of young women.

One of the student union heads said, "We are trying to propagate the ideas of feminism and equality, while these artists are using their art form to demean women. The lyrics of their songs are offensive, abusive and completely opposite of what we are taught in college."

DU colleges have traditionally been among the most active and socially conscious institutions in India and they continue their fight against patriarchy and misogyny.

So, more power to the girls!

Topics Music

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Sohini Mitter

India staff at Mashable. Formerly with Forbes India magazine and The Financial Express newspaper.

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