Following a controversial performance titled “Raahovan” at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay’s cultural festival, the institution finds itself embroiled in a storm of criticism. The play, based on the Ramayana, performed during the Performing Arts Festival (PAF) on March 31, has ignited outrage due to its portrayal of Lord Ram and other characters, which many have deemed offensive and insensitive.
Footage from the event has circulated widely on social media, sparking heated debates on the delicate balance between artistic expression and religious reverence. Amidst this turmoil, the hacktivist collective ‘Vanguard’ has orchestrated a sustained cyber protest. Employing a Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack, they have effectively rendered the IIT Bombay website inaccessible for over 48 hours and counting. This prolonged disruption is emblematic of their vehement dissent against what they perceive as the disrespectful portrayal of Hindu deities and ancient narratives.
This incident echoes a recent controversy at Pondicherry University, where a similar play featuring characters from the Ramayana also drew condemnation for its perceived disrespect. The recurring theme of cultural events at educational institutions igniting religious sensitivities underscores the ongoing debate on the boundaries of creative freedom and the imperative to honor religious sentiments.
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In the play staged at IIT Bombay, even attempts to offer a “woke” and “feminist” interpretation of the epic have failed to assuage critics. Alterations to character names and storyline adjustments intended to present a progressive perspective were seen by many as derisive towards revered Hindu figures, particularly Lord Ram and Goddess Sita.
The episode has reignited a fervent discourse on the ethical parameters of artistic expression and the responsibility to uphold religious dignity. Despite the prolonged disruption caused by the ongoing DDoS attack by Lapsus India, the IIT Bombay administration has not issued any official statement regarding the controversy, leaving the discussion in the public domain unsettled and contentious.
