Entertainment is both a mirror and a guide for society. The language, behavior, thinking, and social culture of a society are gradually influenced by the kind of entertainment it consumes. Therefore, the question of whether we are willing to accept everything in the name of entertainment has become more relevant today than ever before. The outcry against the obscene dances, songs, and videos performed by female dancers at the platform of Meham Chaubisi in Rohtak district, Haryana, is not merely a local incident. It reflects a broader concern felt by a large section of the country. But if this movement remains confined to forums and public events, it will likely be an incomplete movement. What is needed today is to discuss every form of obscenity equally—whether it occurs on stage, social media, or OTT platforms.
The digital revolution has democratized entertainment. Now everyone is not just a spectator, but also a creator. Mobile cameras and the internet have allowed millions to showcase their talent. This has brought about many positive changes. But it has also led to a competition in which provocative content is prioritized for the sake of more views, more likes, and more revenue. The result is that vulgarity, sensationalism, and obscenity often go viral more than talent.
Today, videos featuring vulgar dialogue, double-meaning lyrics, provocative dances, and abusive language are readily available on many social media platforms. Furthermore, these videos often reach millions of people automatically due to algorithms. If content is viewed more, platforms distribute it to even more people. In this system, popularity becomes more important than quality.
OTT platforms have given a new direction to the Indian entertainment industry. Many excellent films, web series, and documentaries have emerged through these platforms. Therefore, it would be unfair to single-handedly blame OTT. The problem arises when some producers use excessive nudity, profanity, and violence beyond the story’s requirements simply to attract audiences. It often seems that if a web series lacks sufficient profanity, provocative scenes, or excessive violence, it will not be considered successful. This trend demands serious consideration.
It’s often argued that such content is age-limited and not intended for family viewing. However, the reality is different. Most children and adolescents in India use mobile phones. Age verification systems are limited and often merely formal. Parents cannot constantly monitor what their children are viewing. Therefore, simply posting warnings is not a sufficient solution.
Psychologists have been pointing out for years that a person’s personality develops rapidly during childhood and adolescence. Language, behavior, understanding of relationships, and social sensitivity are influenced by the environment around them. Digital content has also become a part of that environment. This doesn’t mean that every child will become like a child after watching a video, but it’s also not fair to assume that content has no impact. Family, school, friends, society, and digital media—all play a role in personality development.
It should also be noted that the definition of obscenity is not the same in every society or at every time. Art, literature, and cinema should be allowed the freedom to discuss difficult topics and reflect social reality. Freedom of expression is a vital right in a democracy. Therefore, the tendency to ban any idea merely based on disagreement is also inappropriate. However, there is a clear distinction between freedom of expression and deliberately serving provocative content for commercial gain. This balance is of paramount importance.
The problem isn’t just with content creators. Viewers are also part of this entire system. If obscene or sensational content receives millions of views, the market will move in that direction. Therefore, society must also introspect about the type of content it is promoting. Protests alone won’t bring about change; viewing habits also need to change.
The government’s role is also crucial. Censorship should be a last resort in any democratic system, but measures such as child safety, clear age classification, effective parental controls, grievance redressal mechanisms, and transparent regulation can be seriously addressed. Digital platforms also have a social responsibility to operate not solely based on profit, but also considering their impact on society.
Digital literacy in schools has become the need of the hour. Children must be taught that not all content available on the internet is suitable for them. They need to be educated about critical thinking, responsible digital behavior, and online safety. Parents must also increase communication with their children. Simply taking away their mobile phone is not the solution; proper guidance and an environment of trust may be more effective.
If society opposes vulgar dance on public platforms, it should also show equal sensitivity to similar content available on social media and OTT platforms. Protests should not be selective. Protecting culture cannot be limited to community gatherings, fairs, or events; today, its biggest test is taking place in the digital world.
We also need to understand that healthy entertainment doesn’t have to mean boring entertainment. India’s art, music, theater, cinema, and folk traditions are rich. Excellent entertainment and social responsibility can go hand in hand. Numerous films, web series, and programs prove that audiences can be won over without vulgarity.
Keeping the new generation away from modern technology is neither possible nor necessary. What’s needed is to teach them how to use technology judiciously. If we want our young generation to become sensitive, creative, and responsible citizens in the years to come, we must engage in serious social dialogue about the changing nature of entertainment.
The movement against pornography shouldn’t be about opposing art or expression. It should be about creating an environment that fosters creativity, dignity, and social responsibility. Society, families, educational institutions, digital platforms, and governments—all share a responsibility to strike a balance between freedom of expression and social decorum.
The need today is not to oppose any one platform, but to oppose the mindset that believes that sacrificing decorum to attract more attention is the path to success. If we want to give our future generations a better language, better sensibilities, and a better cultural environment, this movement must begin not just in the community halls, but in every home and every mobile screen. Only then will this movement be truly meaningful.
