News Puducherry

Police Register Case After ABVP Protests Over Disrespectful Depiction Of Ma Sita In A Play At Pondicherry University

April 2, 2024
The Commune

In a recent incident that has stirred significant debate, Pondicherry University found itself embroiled in a contentious issue surrounding a play presented during its annual cultural festival, Ezhini 2K24. The Department of Performing Arts staged a production titled “SOMAYANAM” on 29 March 2024, which has ignited a firestorm of criticism. Allegations have surfaced regarding the play’s portrayal of characters from the revered Hindu epic, Ramayana, which many have found deeply disrespectful and offensive.

According to reports from ABVP (Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad), a prominent student organization, the play purportedly depicted Sita, a central figure in the Ramayana, offering beef to Ravana, the antagonist in the epic, among other objectionable scenes. Furthermore, the character of Hanuman, a revered devotee of Lord Rama, was allegedly subjected to mockery, with his distinctive tail portrayed as an antenna used for communication. These portrayals have evoked strong condemnation from various quarters, particularly Hindu communities who hold the Ramayana in the highest regard.

In response to the perceived affront to Hindu sentiments, ABVP staged protests at Pondicherry University on 30 March 2024, demanding accountability from the university administration. The student organization issued a statement on 31 March 2024 vehemently condemning the play’s content and calling for swift action against those responsible for its production.

Moreover, ABVP has accused Communist and Left-led outfits on the university campus of orchestrating the controversial play as part of a deliberate agenda to malign Hindu deities and question the sanctity of revered religious texts. They have demanded disciplinary measures against individuals involved in the play’s creation and production, including the writer, director, and actors.

The controversy at Pondicherry University is not an isolated incident. Similar instances of alleged disrespect towards Hindu religious figures have been reported from Pune University, where a play titled “Jab We Met” staged objectionable scenes, including Sita smoking a cigarette. These incidents have reignited debates on the boundaries of creative expression, religious sensitivity, and the responsibilities of academic institutions in upholding cultural and religious values.

In response to public outcry and widespread dissemination of footage depicting the controversial scenes, Puducherry police have initiated legal action, indicating a growing recognition of the seriousness of the matter. 

Kalapet Police in Pondicherry University registered a case against students and others for outraging religious feelings in the play  “Somayanam” at the festival. Police initiated an inquiry, and the university formed a committee to investigate. 

Meanwhile, university administrations have formed committees to investigate the incidents further and address concerns raised by various stakeholders.

(with inputs from Organiser)

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