IIT Bombay fines students for mocking revered figures in Ramayana skit

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay has fined eight students for staging a play titled 'Raahovan,' loosely based on the revered Hindu epic, Ramayana claiming,the play was presented in a "derogatory manner."

The incident occurred during a Performing Arts Festival (PAF) on March 31st, when a group of students formally complained about the skit. They alleged that the performance portrayed the epic's lead characters in questionable roles, mocking cultural values in efforts of promoting feminism.

The fines imposed varied, with some students fined ₹1.2 lakh, while others were fined ₹40,000. Additionally, the students have been banned from using certain facilities and are no longer eligible for the gymkhana awards given by the institute. The penalties effect both junior and graduating students, involved in the play. The necessary actions were taken by the office of the Dean of Student Affairs.

The video of the play sparked controversy on social media. Critics pointed to the mockery of Lord Ram and the Ramayana, with one scene allegedly showing a student playing Sita praising her kidnapper and the place she was taken to.

Clips from the performance posted online led to accusations that the students misused academic freedom to ridicule revered figures. 

One user on X (formerly Twitter) expressed concern that even prestigious institutions like IIT are neglecting to respect religious sentiments and preserve cultural heritage. While few others, questioned whether the students' freedom of expression was being unjustly curtailed.