Mumbai Ramayana Skit Controversy: IIT-Bombay Imposes Rs 1.2 Lakh Fine On 8 Students

During the annual performing arts festival at IIT-Bombay held on March 31, a play titled Raahovan was staged by a group of students, comprising both graduating seniors and junior members.

Following complaints from some students alleging that the play portrayed the lead characters from the Ramayana in a derogatory manner, the institute has taken disciplinary action against the participants.

Ramayana Skit Controversy: IIT-Bombay Takes Stern Action

According to reports, the graduating students involved have each been fined Rs 1.2 lakh and will not be eligible for any gymkhana awards. Junior students have been fined Rs 40,000 each and additionally barred from using hostel facilities. These penalties were imposed based on the recommendations of a disciplinary action committee convened by the institute in response to the complaints.

The play's performance, which took place at the campus's open-air theatre, garnered attention after a video clip circulating on social media juxtaposed scenes from the play with elements of the Ramayana, sparking debates on the boundaries of artistic freedom and sensitivity towards religious sentiments.

While some students on campus have expressed dissent over the severity of the sanctions, arguing that the play offered a feminist perspective on tribal society and was well-received by both the audience and judges, others have supported the institute's decision, emphasizing the need to respect religious sentiments and uphold decorum in artistic expression on campus.

The institute has refrained from commenting on the matter officially, but concerns have been raised about the leakage of confidential documents related to the disciplinary actions, prompting calls for transparency in how such matters are handled in the future.