You searched for life at delhi university - Page 23 of 80 - DU Beat - Delhi University's Independent Student Newspaper

Arts & Culture

Postponed Olympics: A Blessing In Disguise For Indian Athletes?

By DU Beat May 4, 2020

While the decision to postpone the Olympics posed a headache for many athletes, there were a few silver linings, especially in the Indian camp.

1940. 1944. Since their modern inception in 1896, the Olympic Games have only been cancelled three times in history. This fact helps us gauge the magnitude and significance of the International Olympic Committee’s decision to postpone the 2020 Tokyo Olympics to next year due to the coronavirus induced global standstill. Besides the three cancellations, this is the first ever instance of a postponement. Evidently, we find ourselves in a once-in-a-lifetime situation, though not a very pleasant one.

For athletes who had been preparing their bodies – following strict diets and rigorous training cycles – under a tight structured schedule to ensure they hit peak form in the summer of 2020, the announcement of the postponement, that too with only a few months to go, certainly would have produced cries of disappointment and frustration. In sports, time is paramount. One whole year can make a significant amount of difference. Most athletes are only ever fully at their peak for a very short period of time in their career. And since the Olympics are held after every four years, athletes don’t get many shots at glory. With medals being decided in milliseconds and millimetres, the margin of error is extremely small and not being in peak condition means no medal.

From a financial point of view, Japanese economists estimated the economic damage of postponing the Games to be more than 600 billion Japanese yen. The postponement shall cost the National Broadcasting Company (NBC) an estimated 1.2 billion American dollars in advertisement revenue. As is evident, a large chunk of stakeholders are at the receiving end of the postponement. However, for some Indian athletes, the decision, even if imposed under unfortunate circumstances, has been a blessing in disguise.

Take for instance, Indian javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra. Chopra is a Commonwealth Games and Asian Games gold medallist and a junior world record holder in his sport with his exploits frequently prompting the media in the past two years to label him as the brightest prospect to end India’s drought in athletics at the Olympics. But due to an injury, Chopra had to undergo a surgery on his elbow, forcing him to miss the complete sporting calendar in 2019. He only got back to action in January 2020 and while he did produce a good performance, it’s not possible to be at one’s best a few months after being out of action for a whole year. Thus the postponement couldn’t have come at a better time for Chopra as now he’s been “gifted” with another whole year to recuperate and reach his peak. Chopra told Reuters, “I had found very little time to work on my technique as I was concentrating more on rehab. I didn’t have much time to work on my throws as I started very late. Now I will try to solve the problems that I have noticed.”

Image Credits: India Today

Image Caption: Neeraj Chopra seen mid run-up

In another case not largely different from Chopra’s situation, Jinson Johnson, a middle-distance runner and an Asian Games gold medallist, suffered an Achilles tendon injury in 2019 and was still under recuperation at the start of 2020, in a race against time to recover, qualify and compete in the Olympics. “Earlier, the qualification was going to end in June. So I tried to rush through my rehab a little. It was a situation where I had to have enough rehab time and have enough track time. There was a worry that I wouldn’t get enough rehab time,” said Johnson in an interview with The Indian Express. But with the postponement, he receives opportunity to get back into perfect shape and plan his way back into contention next year.

Image Credits: India Today

Image Caption: Jinson Johnson after breaking the national 1500m record

India’s medal count has been consistently dismal, with the highest tally till date being only six (2012 London Olympics). The country sent a contingent of over a hundred athletes to the 2016 Rio Olympics and returned with only two medals. To give a fair idea of the disparity, Georgia, a country with a population barely touching 3 million, which is five times less than that of Delhi, returned from the same Olympics with 11 medals.

Indian athletes certainly leave a lot to be desired with their performances. While it would be wrong to say that they don’t work hard, they do tend to come up short against their foreign counterparts for various wide-ranging reasons, from lack of finances for purchasing world-class training equipment to the rigorous military grade preparations of their opponents. Many are already at a disadvantage before the competition even starts. The postponement shall surely give the athletes in the Indian camp more time to train better and plot and plan their way to the podium.

Fouaad Mirza, equestrian and an Asian Games silver medallist, told the Press Trust Of India that the postponement was a “blessing in disguise” as it gives him and his horse “more time for some much-needed preparations”.

“From a practical point of view, India were surely the underdogs. No one really expected us to pose any serious challenges, except in some events where veterans were scheduled to participate. And true, this would just have been another Olympics and another dismal show. But now it’s not really a “normal” edition. The event has been pushed back by a year and all plans of competitors have gone haywire. Under such abnormal and unusual circumstances, I would say we have an outside chance to strike the pot of gold.” opined a University Of Delhi student, on the condition of anonymity.

It’s good to bear a competitive spirit, but while being at it, we should keep in mind the sombre atmosphere prevalent across the world currently and not forget the actual reason which forced the postponement of the Olympics in the first place. Whether or not the postponement was a blessing in disguise for the Indian Olympic camp shall only be fully ascertained after the event happens next year. Till then, we can only hope that the pandemic doesn’t push the Tokyo Olympics further back, into oblivion.

Araba Kongbam

[email protected]

Feature Image Credits: Outlook India

Keep Reading

Arts & Culture

The Celebrity Turf: Who Walked upon 2019-20

By DU Beat May 4, 2020

Here’s taking a look back at all the celebrity appearances to close off the session 2019-20. From politicians, to musicians, DU Beat presents to you celebrity highlights of the year.

DUSU ELECTIONS 2019, NSUI INDIA

1. Shashi Tharoor interacts with students on the eve of DUSU Elections

The NSUI along with Kerala Students Union on the occasion of the DUSU Elections 2019, organised a student interaction session with Dr. Shashi Tharoor on 4th September. Several questions were asked to Dr. Tharoor and he dealt with every question patiently. He also talked about demonetization, National Register of Citizens (NRC) Bill, and the Kashmir issue. Dr. Shashi Tharoor concluded the session by giving some advice to the students. He told them to not compete with others but with themselves; and that failure was a part of life, that without it there was no success.

INDIAN YOUTH CONCLAVE, DILLI HAAT, JANAKPURI

1. Workshop with ‘Little Things’ Star Dhruv Sehgal

Rose to fame from Filter Copy and Little Things, actor and writer Dhruv Sehgal conducted a workshop on creative writing at Indian Youth Conclave on 31st August 2019, which helped the aspiring writers to ace writing skills. He stressed on making observations which are free of cost, how everyone has a story, and how the blank pages are the best instrument for writers. Dhruv also highlighted the diversified and stark competition in the web series business, and insisted on the importance of following the rules which flourish creativity as opposed to the millennial’s obsession of breaking them.

RENDEZVOUS’19, IIT DELHI

1. The Trinity of Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy at Rendezvous

The famous Indian musical trio of Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy performed magnificently at Rendezvous: The annual cultural festival of Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi (IITD) on 2nd October 2019. The trinity which completed 20 years in the industry interacted with the audience and made them groove at their beats and rhythms. They performed their classical hits such as Locha-e-ulfat, Mitwa, and Dil Chahta Hai which made the audience take a trip to nostalgia of the 2000s. Saving the best for the last, the trio concluded their performance with Phir Bhi Dil hai Hindustani and Breathless.

2. Moonwalk Magicians MJ5 at Rendezvous

The winner of India’s Dancing Superstar- MJ5 gave a riveting performance at day two- on 3rd October 2019 at Rendezvous: The annual cultural festival of IIT Delhi. The boy dance group is famous for its unique variations, formed from the inspiration of the famous pop icon Michael Jackson. The record holder group enthralled the audience with their beautiful synchronisation and smooth moonwalks. They also engaged with the crowd and got them grooving along with their performance. They put together a series of classic Michael Jackson steps along with some famous bollywood mixes for the audience to be entertained.

3. Amit Trivedi Steals The Night At Rendezvous

Singer, composer and lyricist, Amit Trivedi performed on 5th October 2019, the fourth and final day of Rendezvous at IIT Delhi, with his team consisting of Meghna Mishra who sang in Secret Superstar, and others. He swooned the audience with his majestic compositions from Udta Punjab, Manmarzyaan, Andhadhun, Dear Zindagi, and others. The audience was bewitched at the Coke Studio renditions of Chaudhary and Badri Badariya by the singer and his team. The mesmerising synchronisation of the harmony of the artists brought the night to an end in a way which was a memorable experience.

4. Laxmi Agarwal Gets Candid at Rendezvous

Acid attack survivor and a campaigner for rights, Laxmi Agarwal spoke candidly at Rendezvous at an event called FAIL. This was initially conceptualised in MIT, but had a desi side to it by having successful Indian speakers- talking about their failures in life. Laxmi was the first speaker and she had her audience hooked to her, for her life story was captivating. She told about her journey candidly: How she was spewed with acid at the age of 15, and how she came out of that as a warrior. She has started a campaign called Save Sale Acid, and has never looked back in her life.

5. Rajat Sharma Engages at Rendezvous

Chairman and Editor-in-chief at India TV, Rajat Sharma spoke at the event FAIL in which successful people share their failure stories. The Aap Ki Adalat host addressed the public in a different manner than other speakers and had a lot of interactive dialogues with them. The journalist also asked a lot of questions to the audience to keep them engaged, and shared his life story with them. His speech concluded his life journey and left the audience inspired.

6. Poetic Mehfil By Kumar Vishwas At Rendezvous

Poet and politician Kumar Vishwas won hearts on day three- 4th October 2019, of the annual cultural fest of IIT Delhi: Rendezvous. The poet recited a series of poems having a satirical hint to it and took jabs at the government during his show. He performed his ever famous poem Koi Deewana Kehta Hai and Ek Pagli Ladki Ke Bin which had the audience hooked from the charm of his endearing and mesmerising poetry recitals.

ANTARAGNI’19, IIT KANPUR

1.DJ Trinity Rocks At Antaragni’19

DJ Gian Nobilee, DJ Bonka, and DJ Ravator gave a rocking performance at Antaragni’19, the annual cultural festival of IIT Kanpur on the opening day- 17th October 2019. The EDM artists who have names around the globe, pounded the campus with some hard beats. His Italian music inclination, featuring live energy and electronic music had the crowd grooving to his amazing beats. The popular remixes by the DJ trio was the highlight of their performance and was much awaited by their fans.

2. Jab ‘Chai Met Toast’ Met Antaragni’s Crowd

Performance by the celebrated Indie pop band-When Chai Met Toast at Antaragni, IIT Kanpur, left everyone mesmerised. The young band, which hails from Kochi is known for mixing sounds from across East and West. The uniqueness in their style was reciprocated by a huge fanbase in the crowd. With their tracks like ‘Firefly’ and ‘Believe,’ they made the crowd intoxicated and thrilled with their music which had made a soulful connection with them.

3. Rap Hustle At Antaragni’19

At IIT Kanpur’s annual cultural festival Antaragni, took place the Rap Hustle between famous Indian hustlers like Kaam Bhari, Spitfire and SlowCheetah. The talented rappers jammed with the audience and had them awestruck with their rhymes and lyrics. Loud cheer followed every hard hitting lyric and their beats dropped with applause and charged up reactions. The arena was filled up to its brim, and so was the excitement among the attendees at the festival who enjoyed every bit of the battle.

4. Karunesh Talwar’s Hilarious Monologue At IIT Kanpur

The annual festival of IIT Kanpur- Antaragni, included a hilarious performance by the acclaimed Indian stand-up comic, Karunesh Talwar. The creator of stand-up specials like, ‘Paka Mat Na Mote’ and ‘Pata Nahi Par Bolna Hai’ made the audience break into laughter and giggles throughout his performance. The former member of the popular comedy group AIB, delivered the whole crowd some hysterical jokes and anecdotal stories which had the crowd side splitting. The comedian with his perfect timing had his audience cracking up the entire time.

5. Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy Trio Closes Antaragni’19

The highly acclaimed musical trio of Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy in their own magical way, closed Antaragni- the annual cultural festival of IIT Kanpur on day four- 20th October 2019, with their strong, energetic, and eclectic performance. As expected, the performance saw an overwhelming crowd and an exhilarating performance by the band, which had everyone rooting for them throughout. The band played a host of their famous tracks and the audience danced to the tunes of their famous songs including Sajdaa, Koi Kahe Kehta Rahe, Pretty Woman, Zinda and Gallan Goodiyan.

OASIS’19, BITS PILANI

1. Prominent Filmmaker Imtiaz Ali Talks At Oasis’19

The 49th edition of BITS Pilani’s flagship cultural festival, Oasis, held huge and star-studded events, and on 20th October 2019, saw the inauguration of the BITS film festival by Highway and Rockstar-director Imtiaz Ali. The director known for his work at redefining modern love in contemporary times had everyone transfixed when he communicated with them. Ali talked in detail and depth about his experiences with Oasis and reminisced about his student days. He also talked about handling rejections, among other matters which waved a sense of positivity in the atmosphere.

2. Sunidhi Chauhan Wins Hearts At Oasis’19

Sunidhi Chauhan, the queen of power ballads in Bollywood, gave the audience at BITS Pilani a whiff of nostalgia as she performed her classic songs from the 2000s and 2010s. Her performance drove the crowd to pure madness as she and her team of harmonized and whipped out their best moves together. Their synchronisation was top notch. The entire crowd danced all night and just couldn’t have enough of the singing diva.

3. Nucleya Hits EDM At Oasis’19

The EDM sensation of India-Nucleya, arrived at the BITS’19 cultural festival-Oasis, to give a powerful performance. Along with his desi brand of dubstep which is a major aspect of making his performance lively, were the trippy, random, and vintage Bollywood inspired visuals playing on the colossal stage screens. The credit for these designs goes to the EDM Maestro Nucleya’s frequent designer, Diprav Jadhav. With tracks from acclaimed albums like Raja Baja and Bass Rani, the DJ gave a splendid performance and be it the track Heer or Laung Gawacha, the crowd absolutely loved him.

4. BITS Brings Biswa To Perform At Oasis’19

The hilarious stand-up comic Biswa Kalyan Rath performed on the last day of the festival Oasis at BITS Pilani. The house was filled to its brim with spectators even occupying the floors. ‘Mast Aadmi‘- Biswa went on with his banter on engineering students, Indian civic sense, and other matters, leaving the audience in fits of laughter. The engineer turned comedian has not only come up with stand-up specials like ‘In Your Face’ and ‘Sushi,’ but also has created the web series ‘Lakhon Mein Ek’ that showcase the dark realities of our society.

SYMPHONY’20, JANKI DEVI MEMORIAL COLLEGE

1. Jass Manak Gives a Sweet-sounding Performance

Jass Manak, a famous singer-songwriter, performed at Symphony, the annual cultural fest of Janki Devi Memorial College on the 10th January 2020. His fans welcomed him on stage with posters and portraits. The audience was riveted by the Punjabi singer’s performance as he made everyone in the audience sync their steps with songs like Lehenga, Prada, Kajra Mohabbat Wala, Viah and many other Bollywood songs. The students of Janki Devi Memorial College were seen holding banners to stand against violence in educational institutions which was the theme of Symphony 2020.

BUSINESS CONCLAVE’20, SHRI RAM COLLEGE OF COMMERCE

1. Harsimrat Kaur Badal Speaks about Women Empowerment

Member of Parliament, Bhatinda, and Union Cabinet Minister of Food Processing, Harsimrat Kaur Badal gave a speech on the empowerment of women and their rights on February 12th. She talked about the struggles she had to endure to be where she is today along with the struggles of many other brave women fighting for education. She pointed out how the majority of women in India are married against their wishes. She also took a minute to talk about her journey with Nanhi Chhaan movement to help women in Punjab.

2. Cast of College Romance Enlightens Everyone at Business Conclave

Three actors from the cast of web series ‘College Romance’ namely Shreya Mehta, Gagan Arora and Keshav Sadhna were a part of the YouTubers’ Panel at Business Conclave 2020. The actors discussed how YouTube is an extremely welcoming platform for aspiring content creators. They also pointed out the importance of originality and how relatable content gets noticed relatively more quickly. After the discussion ended, the audience asked several questions from the panelists such as the progress of season 2 of College Romance. On being asked about their political views, the three actors took a pass and politely asked the mediator of the panel to not bring politics into the picture.

3. Comedian Aakash Gupta Gives a Hilarious Monologue

Aakash Gupta, the winner of Comicstaan season 2, enchanted the audience with his wit and sarcasm on 13th February. The gymnasium of Shri Ram College of Commerce roared with laughter on account of Aakash Gupta’s hilarious imitations of people sneezing and laughing in the most unusual ways. He left the audience hooting with laughter as he went on to explain his crazy escapades in Delhi. Day two came to an end with the audience dying with laughter and it was a day full of entertainment.

4. Gautam Gambhir Gives a Noteworthy Speech at Business Conclave

Gautam Gambhir, an ex-cricketer turned politician, talked about his journey in the field of politics and addressed the audience about Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) recent defeat in Delhi Assembly Elections despite the party’s innumerable attempts to win the elections. He stated that no politician should ever be thanked for it is the duty of a politician to help the masses. The Padma Shree Awardee also pointed out the importance of self-motivation. He apprised the audience about his accountability to not just his constituency but all other constituencies that his party contested for.

5. Kapil Sharma Apprises the Audience at SRCC

Kapil Sharma, a prominent comedian in the television industry engages with the audience at Business Conclave on 14th February. In his speech, he stressed on the importance of writing part of a show and how the plot is among the most important factors that contribute to the success of a show. While giving the speech, he was reminded of his own college days in Amritsar. The comedian turned actor was also a part of his college theatre group which led him to pursue his dreams that later turned into a reality. The panel ended with a bunch of zealous students jamming on stage with Kapil on a rap song

6. Prajakta Koli Distinctly Converses with the Audience

Prajakta Koli, a renowned content creator and YouTuber who goes by the name of ‘Mostly Sane’, was welcomed on stage. She began to talk about her experiments with different fields and trying her hands on various careers. She started off as a radio intern and later explored content creation which worked out extremely well for her. She went on to become one of the most famous YouTubers in India. She mentioned that she was in collaboration with Lily Singh who is better known as the Superwoman. She described an indescribable moment of her life which was having tea with Michelle Obama, former First Lady of the US. She also highlighted problems in her career as such YouTube censorship. The audience was given a chance to interact with her and on special request, she enacted her character Montu for all her fans in the audience.

7. Kapil Sibbal Engages with the Audience at Business Conclave

KapilSibal, a renowned politician of the Indian National Congress and a Member of Parliament began his speech by mentioning how his family came to India after the Partition. He shed light upon the importance of freedom of the youth and the education system which seemed to have innumerable downsides. The Rajya Sabha MP also claimed that on the orders of the NDA government, educational institutions were ruthlessly ransacked where students were attacked. He could not stress enough on the importance of expression of dissent in a democratic country. He was hopeful about the country electing better leaders and better vice-chancellors of universities.

RHAPSODY’20, MAITREYI COLLEGE

1. Darshan Raval’s Exuberant Performance at Rhapsody’20

The students of Delhi University were enthralled by Darshan Rawal’s performance on the 21st of January at Rhapsody, the annual cultural fest of Maitreyi College. Despite the strict entry procedure, Maitreyi College resonated with Darshan Raval’s captivating voice. He started off with a few romantic songs and later went on to sing party songs like ‘Kamariya’ and ‘Chogada’ to make his zealous audience dance. The 25-year-old singer also dedicated songs to boys in the audience. He also gave challenged everyone in the audience to match the steps of his team. However, Darshan’s energy was unmatchable and his power-packed performance made Rhapsody’20 a memorable one.

ONE PLUS COMEDY NIGHT, SHAHEED SUKHDEV COLLEGE OF BUSINESS STUDIES

1. Rahul Subramanian Performs a stand-up at One Plus Comedy Night

Stand-up comic Rahul Subramanian performed at the pre event of the cultural fest of Shaheed Sukhdev College of Business Studies- Crescendo in association with One Plus on 25th January 2020. Amidst skepticism of cancellation, the show took place and Subramanian showed up casually with minimal efforts in appearance, and performed a spoof of his Amazon prime show ‘Kal Main Udega.’ He made jokes about DJs and how his life was as a management student in Greater Noida. He also interacted with the audience for most of the time and did improvisations.

UDGAM’20, RAMJAS COLLEGE

1. Fusion band Pakshee grooves in Udgam at Ramjas College

Ramjas College celebrated its annual cultural fest, ‘Udgam’ that was collectively organised by the college’s five cultural societies. The highlight of the fest was the performance by Pakshee, a Hindustani and Carnatic fusion band on 27th February. The performance by the band was electrifying and the students loved the unique beats of the band. The band members themselves were thrilled to see such an excited audience. With the band’s performance, the fest culminated. The performance was enjoyed by over 200 students that attended the ‘Star Night’.

NEXUS’20, SRI VENKATESWARA COLLEGE

1. The Yellow Diary Rocks The Evening At Nexus

One of the best indie bands: The Yellow Diary performed at the inaugural day of Nexus- the annual cultural festival of Sri Venkateswara College on 28th February 2020. They had the audience captivated by their fusion rock music and soothing synchronisation of Rajan Batra’s voice with instruments of the band. They uplifted the crowd with their performance of popular songs like Rab Rakha, Marz, and Tere Jaisa Hor Dissa among others. They saved the best for last and sang Kashmir which was much awaited by the fans. The band also distributed free T-shirts to some fans at the end of the show.

2. Ankit Tiwari Gives a Dazzling Performance at Nexus

The singer, music director and composer, Ankit Tiwari enthralled the audience at Nexus- the annual cultural festival of Sri Venkateswara College on 29th February 2020. Even in the midst of intermittent raining and delay the crowd was large and awaited the presence of this bollywood singer. Tiwari sang Bollywood blues and got the audience to sway especially when he sang his USP song of Aashiqui-2, Sun Raha Hai Na Tu. The singer also invited students to join him and sing on the stage and the vibe was celebratory.

Feature Image Credits: Surbhit Rastogi for DU Beat

Image Credits: DU Beat

Umaima Khanam

[email protected]

Suhani Malhotra

[email protected]

Aniket Singh Chauhan

[email protected]

Avni Dhawan

[email protected]

Keep Reading

DUB Speak

On Goodbyes and Lessons Learned: Signing Off, Print Editor 2019-2020

By DU Beat April 30, 2020

Here are a few words by the Heads at DU Beat, sharing the experiences which built their journey, as they bid adieu to this family. While this journey comes to an end, the memories last forever. Anushree Joshi, Print Editor 2019-2020, shares her honest words with us.

In an Instagram live session with singer-songwriter Ali Sethi, renowned lyricist, writer, and stand-up comic Varun Grover said something which I’ve taken the liberty to paraphrase here – we miss places only after we have left them behind. As I sit here today, thinking about saying some profound parting words as the Print Editor, I am unable to feel a kick of overwhelming nostalgia – partly because I’m not a very sentimental person, and partly because I’m eager to see what comes next for me, outside the mind-numbingly time-consuming and not-for-profit shenanigans of DU Beat.

Let’s call a spade a spade because being a part of this team takes a lot of dedication and patience. I remember being in 12th grade, over-dependent and over-enthusiastically invested in every news update or graphic DU Beat put up because they were the most reliable source for all the information that sustains an anxious high-schooler and a Delhi University aspirant. I knew I had to be there, so I applied to DU Beat immediately after applying to DU, and the rest – as the cliché goes – is history. Never in those moments of peak worry about making the cut in their editorial team did I imagine I would be so invested in something that didn’t even pay me back. However, I also didn’t imagine that I would ever be recognised as the ‘Print Editor’ in the halls of my college, and across DU.

In this daunting vast sphere of diversity, DU Beat gave me a lot of nauseous panic-worthy days, but it also provided me with a stable center to come home to. There may be a lot this organisation has to learn in terms of team diversity, intersectionality, and sometimes empathy too – but it gives one some takeaways for the ages too. In working with excellent designers, photographers, correspondents, and resource-persons across the University, I somewhere became a little more capable. From brainstorming memes to microscopically sifting through PDFs for alignment errors, from dancing at fests to negotiating with the most headstrong authorities, from cursing WordPress as a copyeditor to breaking stories at student protests – DU Beat is the hub of lessons I didn’t even know I needed. There have been a lot of sleepless nights and tiring weekends that I lost to DU Beat, but I gained the ineffable pleasure of holding a newspaper, week after week, and knowing that I had been instrumental in creating it from scratch.

If you are reading it as a DU Beat-aspirant or as a current DUBster, I don’t want to paint a rosy lie and say that there is nowhere else you would enhance your skills in writing, editing, reporting, designing, photography, etc. But I can take a gamble and claim that it won’t be an experience as agency-giving as working with a bunch of students who don’t know everything they are doing, but they figure it nonetheless (and how). DU Beat is a memorable place for friendships and relationships for many – I found some great people along the way too, but the most significant difference this organisation made in my life – and can make in yours too – is the power to believe that I can learn and I can create something, for the ages.

Signing off,

Anushree Joshi

Print Editor 2019-2020

Keep Reading

DUB Speak

Bidding Goodbyes and Uncertain Endings: Signing Off, Head of Design 2019-2020

By DU Beat April 29, 2020

Even the most beautiful journeys can have the most sudden and abrupt endings. And my journey with DUB is the best example here!

It was in July 2018, the orientation ceremony of DUB took place. I was sitting alone in a corner, leaning on the wall of a room full of about some 50 strangers. Nervous and hesitant to interact with any new face, with this I began a new journey of my life and perhaps the most important one!

College life can be very difficult for some, and I was no different. However, DUB has been the most tender companion to embark on this bittersweet journey with. Over the months, my love for this place has only grown deeper. From being a naive, nervous kid, I got to head a team of my own and make a small family under the umbrella of this big, fat joint family.

DUB has always been known for its people. And the opportunity to share a table with the Delhi university’s best and the finest writers, photographers, managers, and designers, was something only DUB could have given. But it’s the quality of work that these people create together, makes DUB known and stand out among the slab.

And now, when my journey with DUB Is ending, I have nothing else than immense gratitude for everyone I’ve worked within DUB, and a huge bundle of memories that I shall reminiscent over the coming years of my life.

Ending this beautiful journey, especially in these tough circumstances, makes this challenge even harder than its nature. However, a quote that I live by, “finding aesthetics in times of crisis” shall be the attitude, as despite many unventured paths, it was one delightful journey.

So, if I got to go back, and have a conversation with that nervous kid that I was once, I would only tell her to hold on to each moment, stay a little more late at the Monday meetings, attend more fest coverages, create more graphics and enjoy every bit of it, cause eventually, when all of this will be over, she’s going to love and cherish this journey till ducks start barking or forever! And who knows if she’ll get a chance to give a goodbye hug to everyone or not.

Signing Off,

Sanjana Sanehi

Head of Design 2019-2020

Keep Reading

Campus Central

The Stolen Sixth Semester: Woes of a Final-Year Student

By DU Beat April 21, 2020

Read the words of our Editor-in-Chief for one last time, before she graduates, as she complains about her stolen sixth semester.

I remember last year, around this time, I was preparing for the farewell ceremony for my seniors at DU Beat- my phone would blow up with some 250 random messages on WhatsApp, endless calls discussing the venue, theme, gifts, and what not. At that time, I didn’t actually understand what the final semester meant to my seniors because I was too engrossed thinking about how life and work would be without them being around. But I also had the settling feeling that I would know when time comes.

Cut to 2020, the last semester of my college life as an undergraduate student, sitting at home, writing this article, and thinking about where my last semester went. I think of the stuff I would have been doing with my college friends and my team at this wonderful organisation.

However, I have always believed ‘expect the unexpected’ and I think that this is the only thing that is keeping me sane in such uncertain times. As kids, most of us might have experienced an unsettling feeling when somebody would snatch out a lollipop from our mouth. This is exactly what happened to our final semester.

Having said this, I would not talk only about the sad situation we are in. As a graduating student, a host of memories flash in front of me right now- the day I got admitted to the University of Delhi(DU), the day I met my college best friend, and the day I joined this organisation.

The three years of my college life have been the most challenging, yet the best years of my life. From being a student coming out of the protected cocoon of school life to graduating college with confidence and an identity, this is what these three years have made me. As college students, we are stuck with assignments, internals, submissions, deadlines, placements, societies, and endless preoccupations.

The nationwide lockdown gave me enough time to introspect and surprisingly, all that mattered to me during this difficult time were the people. I realised that my college life was not only defined by a degree or my friends, but also the security guard of my college who would wish ‘Good morning bacchon’ every morning, the canteen staff who would talk about their families, and the housekeeping staff of the college who would smile and wish me luck before every exam.

I wish I could get to relive all this one last time because I didn’t know that the chai I had on 6th March in my college canteen was the last cup I would have with my college friends while Ravi bhaiya (college canteen staff) talked about his Holi plans. You know something impacts you a great deal when you are unable to write about it without being cheesy and clichéd. It’s a faux-pas I’m willing to indulge in for the sake of honesty.

As much as I have talked about the final year students, I would also like to talk about the juniors. They are also the ones who hope to give their seniors the most memorable days of their college life. The end semester is also a reminder that they have become older, and are now themselves seniors. It’s a nostalgic time for the third-year students but what we often forget is how overwhelming it is for the juniors as well.

Dear Delhi University, the batch of 2020 will miss their last fest season, internals, college parties, night stays, bunks, submissions, and the last lectures and yes, they will miss you too- a place which gave them friendships, lessons, and lots of memories.

Feature Image Source: Anoushka Sharma for DU Beat

Anoushka Sharma

[email protected]

Keep Reading

Coronavirus

ABVP Releases Questionnaire for Students on Conduction of Exams

By DU Beat April 19, 2020

Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) introduced an online Google form soliciting opinions of students with regards to conduction of their postponed examinations, some of which shall later be added to a memorandum scheduled to be submitted to the authorities.

Amidst the shutdown of universities across the country and the indefinite postponement of semester examinations in lieu of the coronavirus-induced national lockdown, Akhil Bharatiya Vidya Parishad Delhi came out with a press release on 16th April 2020 announcing the release of a “Student Opinion Form” for students of universities across Delhi including University Of Delhi, Jawaharlal Nehru University, Jamia Millia Islamia, Lal Bahadur Shastri Sanskrit Vidyapeeth, Ambedkar University with an aim to collect concrete suggestions and opinions regarding the evaluation of their internal assessments and conduction of semester examinations.

This new initiative has been termed as the “Padhega Bharat, Badhega Bharat aur Jeetega Bharat” (India studies, India grows, India wins) campaign. After compiling the opinions and selecting a few notable suggestions, ABVP intends to add them to a memorandum which is due to be presented to the University Grants Commission and the Ministry Of Human Resource Development shortly.

Stressing on the necessity of this initiative due to recent developments such as the possibility of examinations shifting online, Sidharth Yadav, State Secretary, ABVP Delhi came out with a statement, “The pandemic has adversely affected the student community. There is a lot of uncertainty surrounding the resumption of normal civic life, reopening of campuses, conduct of internal assessments and conduction of semester examinations. The semester examinations have also been kept in abeyance. Since students are the primary stakeholders, their suggestions concerning the issues that can influence their academic progress, especially the possibility of organizing web-based semester exams merit specific inclusion on our memoranda.”

The fifteen-point questionnaire includes simple close-ended questions like “Have you ever given any internal exam/project/assignment during the coronavirus pandemic or prior?”, “Are you comfortable giving online assignments/assessments?”, “What online platforms do you use?” and also opinion-based open-ended questions like “Suggest a method for internal assessment during lockdown” and “In your opinion how should the semester exams be conducted?”. Most of the questions seem to seek the students’ opinions on the possible shift of internal and external assessments to online platforms.

“This new initiative was needed as this is an unprecedented situation. The questions are thoughtful and will surely help in revealing the views prevailing among students”, opined a first-year student of the University Of Delhi, on the condition of anonymity.

The link to the “Student Opinion Form” can be accessed through ABVP Delhi’s social media accounts.

Feature Image Credits: Akhil Bharatiya Vidya Parishad via Twitter

Araba Kongbam

[email protected]

Keep Reading

Features

In Conversation with Devika Malik: Forbes 30 Under 30 Entrepreneur

By DU Beat April 15, 2020

Devika Malik who was recently featured in Forbes 30 Under 30 Entrepreneurs List, talks candidly with Kriti Gupta, correspondent at DU Beat, about her life struggles, her strategy behind success, business acumen, bravery and much more. Read on to know more.

Kriti: How do you feel Devika, having made to the under 30 social entrepreneurs list of Forbes, was that something you always sort of expected, when you started?

Devika: I feel great, it feels absolutely amazing to be a part of ‘Forbes’ and especially in the Social Entrepreneurs category. It wasn’t something I expected when I started but, fortunately there is a continuous series of recognitions since, the beginning. In 2015 I was awarded with ‘The Queen’s Young Leader Award’, which was presented at the ‘Bunkhingam Palace’. These sort of recognitions and honours helped in increasing the reach of our organisation and contributed in raising support and funds for our cause. But, in the last one and two years I did think about ‘Forbes’ under 30 category and, luckily one of my mentors from United Kingdom along with one of the young leaders whom I worked with, during the Commonwealth nominated me for the same. Then, in January I received an email informing me that I was one of the semi-finalists but, being afraid about the uncertainity of making it to the final list I didn’t inform anyone about it. Then, when the final list, having my name was released in April it was then people got to know.

Kriti: How much do you believe in the power of youth? Is, being surrounded by a community of young people positive or negative for a social entrepreneur like you?

Devika: I very strongly believe in the power resident in the leadership of the younger generation. In fact, we have recently launched a network called ‘Commonwealth Youth and Children Disability Network’, which aims to connect all the organisations and youth lead intiatives, for the disable communities. The strong passion and commitment of the youth to make a positive difference in the community is really inspiring. Often, people talk about the millennials of being lazy and entitled but, my experience has been completely opposite to this, it has shown me how strongly willed and determined the youth is to help and make a change for the better.

Kriti: You are the co-founder of Wheeling happiness, which is a community promoting disability sports, inclusion, fundraising for women and for the aid of people going through physical and mental sufferings. So, what was that primary thing or idea which drove you to take out time from your routine of an athlete and invest in the organisation?

Devika: I have myself grown up with a disability. I was very young when I got into an accident and encountered Hemiplegia, affecting the entire left side of my body. My mother too has Paralysis which makes her entire body under the chest non-functional, and she has been in this condition for 21 years now. So, being a constant care giver to my mother and a having a personal experience of the disability community, many people going through similar conditions came to seek support and assistance from us. So, all the counselling sessions and support activities which we were doing at an individual level made us to come up with the idea of ‘Wheeling Happiness’, to help a larger group of similar people. Our goal is to not to tell what a disabled person can or can’t but, to support them with whatever goals they originally have.

Kriti: Who is that one person whom you can call as your biggest inspiration or support in your journey with ‘Wheeling Happiness’?

Devika: One year before beginning with ‘Wheeling Happiness’ I completed my masters in organisational behaviour from Delhi University, got a campus placement in a training development and consultancy firm and was simultaneously continuing with my athletics career. Amidst all this, when I told my mother about my ambition of becoming a social entrepreneur, she was very supportive and understanding of my emotions. She had a strong belief on our expertise to help and guide people especially in the rural and economically undeserved areas. Usually parents are sceptical of their children pursuing their careers in social entrepreneurship especially over the corporate industry, but my mother unlike the commons was 100% supportive of my idea. So, for me that one person whom I can call as my biggest inspiration and support will de definitely my mother.

Kriti: You were born with Hemiplegia, which is a condition causing paralysis to one side of the body. So, during that time was there a feeling of hopelessness or an emotion of being just a baggage to your parents? If yes, how did you cope up with it and what kept you going?

Devika: I was born in 1990 and my mother got paralysed in 1999 so, before that she was completely normal and made sure I attend all my physiotherapy and occupational therapy sessions. She took care that I don’t shy away from my disability and actively participate in sports and public speaking activities. When I was younger it was much more physically visible then its now, so she made sure that I was not bothered by the stares and remarks of people. Then later when she got paralysed we together took care of her disability sessions, after which she started with her sports career in 2006, she used to take me with her to practises and matches, that’s when I realised that even I can be a part of it. I never exactly felt a burden to my family but, there was always a conscious effort which I made to excel, as I was fully aware that my family is very fitness conscious and did everything with the utmost perfection, especially my mother who made national and international records in whatever she pursued. So, I always tried to give my 100%.

Kriti: You are also a psychological counsellor and have yourself been a victim of bullying in the past so, what all do you advise to the students who are being bullied or emotionally harassed for their physical features or other characteristic traits?

Devika: I feel it has two aspects related to it, its just not about the student going through it, it is also about sensitising people at large that it not the right way to treat fellow humans, who look or behave different from you. I conduct various workshops and visit many schools and colleges where we teach students on how to be more inclusive in their mind sets and environment. However, the one thing which my personal experience taught me and is very important is self-acceptance. The moment you fall in love with yourself and start appreciating your work, it becomes very difficult for the people to look down upon you. When I was six or seven years old and my fellow students made fun of my disability, my parents told me to not to feel dejected about it but rather laugh along, as they thinking of making fun on your expanse will get confused from your reaction. So, taking that advise I always instead of feeling emotionally broken tried to explain to my peers that yes, I have a disability but apart from that there is lots more about me. Having a confidence and assurance about self is what makes the hierarchy of the bullies weaker.

Kriti: As we all know your mother is Rio Paralympic silver medallist and is also the current president of the Paralympic committee in India so, was it her influence that made you choose para athletes in the beginning or, was it solely your choice?

Devika: My mother never directly told me to come forward and participate in para athletes. It was me who decided that I wanted to competitively participate in sports, though seeing her perform inspired me and helped me to make up my mind for sports. It was after complete four years of her time in the field of sports that I decided to take a part as well. My frequent visits to her practise sessions and competitions made me realise that this is something even I can do. So, it was her influence that introduced me to the world of para athletics or disability sports but, I never faced any pressure or compulsion from her to be a part of it.

Kriti: You have represented India in the 100m and 200m sprints in T37 category. You have won eight national and and three international medals at World Para Athletics Grand Prix competition. So, Do you think having a mother from a sports background made you have an edge over the other players competing with you?

Devika: I don’t think so, there are many players and athletes who perform much better than me. What helped was having a sports and fitness culture in my house and that too I don’t feel provided me an edge over other players but, contributed in putting me in that mind set of sportsmanship. Just like any other player I felt pressurised when I performed in my first international event but, having a mother who herself is inclined towards the same field helped me a lot to deal and compete with it.

Kriti: As you have told in one of your previous interviews that you have been volunteering for the economically undeserved communities since the age of 12, and you are also an alumnus of Delhi university. So, is there any way you think your college or being a part of Delhi University helped you in your growth as a person or in providing a boost to your career?

Devika: Yes, it did contribute in a certain way, if I would not have been part of DU I would not have received the opportunity to work with the really wonderful training and consultancy firm, where I started working in after my masters. Being a part of the company gave me an exposure to design workshops and seminars, which later helped me in my own endeavour. Apart, from that Delhi university along the theoretical knowledge also provides you with very good transferable skills. Its culture of clubs, societies and volunteering among the students, especially the equal opportunity cell, I could see students volunteering as scribes for visually challenged students, all this did help in my growth and development. Another thing which is personally very valuable to me, during my time was the subject Indian psychology, taught by Mr. Sandeep Verma. The subject focused on the psychological prospective of Indian scriptures and ancient Indian writings on human psychology, doing a semester of that really made human psychology something spiritual for me and gave me beyond textbook experience, which I am really grateful about.

Kriti: Awards usually come along with responsibilities, and you have received several such honours including Queens young leader award. So, after such recognitions how did you deal with the expanded expectations from you? And was there an addition to you roles or work load after receiving the honour.

Devika: Absolutely, it does. After being awarded with the Queen’s Young Leader Award, three years later in 2018 I was invited back in Bukhingam Palace, to deliver a speech at the commonwealth heads of government meeting. The meeting hosted the entire royal family, the presidents and prime ministers of all the 54 commonwealth countries, including my own, the entire political spectrum of UK, and I was asked to speak for two and a half minutes about my work. Which I think was a big responsibility, I received because of the Queens Young Leader Award. As your name or your company’s name get associated with certain recognitions and awards it starts holding certain accountability, and it becomes even more important for it to have a specific integrity. After awards I will apart from the work am presenting the background paper work and maintenance of records become equally important.

Kriti: Being an entrepreneur yourself tell us about your thoughts on the impact of Corona virus on the global economy and will that have any long term results in the future?

Devika: It will definitely have long term impacts, especially for those who belong to the non-essential sectors, they will have to re strategize and come up with the plan to pick them up from their boot straps and maintain their relevance in post COVID world. When such a pandemic hits it definitely takes time for the world economy to revive, that will cause difficulty to start ups as well as properly established industries. But since, am in the non profit sector my concern is more around corporate performances, as we receive a large chunk of our funding from the corporate groups, as their social responsibility aspect. My agenda is to use that money to aid the economically undeserved in post COVID situations as they would be those among the hardest hit. My concern would be on the leverage of this social corporate responsibility and help the economically deprived sector. Many organisations including our have targeted certain areas, where we feed around 150 people on a daily basis. One of the key thing everyone should follow in the world after the pandemic is patience, one must not expect to bounce back where they were earlier in a period of three months, they should be understanding of the fact that it will take time.

Kriti: What is the message you would like to share with the world during these difficult times of quarantine and lock down.

Devika: I would like to share primarily two things, one to abide by all the protocols and preventive measures as its for everyone’ health and safety, and second to identify what keeps you in good spirits. These are difficult times, as we are locked indoors, lost connections, so maintenance of a positive and healthy mind set is very important. For some taking longer naps than usual, or following a very strict routine, helps them feel better so, figuring out the activity which helps in keeping a good mental health is something I feel everyone should do. For me personally, when the lock down began I was extremely uneasy in the first couple of days, hearing the news about the migrant and daily wage labourers made me feel really uncomfortable, so thinking about a way to help them was necessary for my mental health. Similarly everyone should find their healthy activity and stay fit both physically as well as mentally.

Featured Image Credits: Devika Malik

Interviewed and Transcribed by Kriti Gupta for DU beat

[email protected]

Keep Reading

Campus Central

News of Promotion without Exams False, Clarifies DU

By DU Beat April 14, 2020

Delhi University authorities confirmed that there has been no discussion regarding the promotion of first- year and second-year students without conducting examinations. All news regarding this has been falsified.

With the University of Delhi (DU) being closed, University administration has postponed their semester-end examinations in lieu of the Coronavirus induced national lockdown.

Meanwhile numerous have reports surfaced among the media, and student circles that, in a meeting of University officials with Vice Chancellor Yogesh Tyagi, proposals regarding promotion of first and second year students without semester-end examinations had been discussed. But contradicting these claims, Professor Vinay Gupta, Dean Of Examinations, told The Quint, “No such proposal has been sent to the Vice Chancellor and these reports do not carry any substance.” He confirmed that the University definitely has plans to conduct examinations, though not in the immediate future.

He mulled that if needed, the University would consider shifting examinations online. “We see online examinations as the only way to conduct examinations, especially in times when students should not leave their houses. But the final decision can only be taken after committees report”, Professor Gupta said, referring to the committees formed by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and the Ministry Of Human Resource Development (MHRD) to analyse various possible scenarios.

Expressing disappointment at the University’s adamant stance on conduction of examinations, an undergraduate student, who did not wish to be named, said, “Many universities across the country have cancelled their semester examinations. Under such trying circumstances, it is best that we give foremost preference to our health and life before considering our educational conveniences. This is a once-in-a-lifetime situation.”

“As of now I have not been intimated by my superiors regarding the cancellation of examinations. Not holding examinations would mean giving the same Semester Cumulative Grade Point Average to each student, which is unfair in my opinion. Examinations should take place, whether after a month, or after a year”, said an Assistant Professor of Economics, on the conditions of anonymity.

Thus in the current situation, cancellation of examinations for any course or year is not in the picture. A definitive update shall only be announced after the committees give their recommendations.

Feature Image Credits: DU Beat Archives

Araba Kongbam

[email protected]

Keep Reading

Editorials

Editorial: Dealing With Uncertainty During COVID-19

By DU Beat April 12, 2020

The COVID-19 situation has created an unprecedented period of complexity and uncertainty. Fears about the virus can take
an emotional toll, especially for college students, who are suddenly thrust into choppy and uncharted waters.

As college students, we are in a time of massive upheaval. There are so many things outside our control, including how long the pandemic lasts, how other people behave, and what the future holds. That is a tough thing to accept, and so many of us respond by endlessly searching the internet for answers and thinking over all the different scenarios that might happen.

But as long as we are focusing on questions with unknowable answers and circumstances outside of our personal control, this strategy will get us nowhere aside from feeling drained, anxious, and overwhelmed. Universities across the nation have resorted to online teaching methods to ensure that there is no academic loss.
However, many students are not comfortable with the teaching process, while, others face the issue of internet connectivity as an impediment to access online classes. In times like these, it is vital to stay informed about the happenings globally and follow the required precautions. Sensationalistic media coverage and misinformation will only add to fear and uncertainty, so keep a tab on the information that is shared with you. Stick to trusted sources like the World Health Organisation (WHO) to discern information about the pandemic. Do not constantly check for updates on social media, it becomes compulsive at one point of time. Stay away from media altogether, if you feel overwhelmed. With the US President Trump repeatedly referring to coronavirus as ‘Chinese virus’ fuelling theories that the virus was a biological weapon used by China, things have taken an odd turn with people using it as an excuse to attack the natives of Northeast India.
A report by Rights and Risk Analysis group shows that residents of the Northeast part of the nation are facing racism and discrimination ever since the onset of the global pandemic. The report titled, ‘Coronavirus Pandemic : India’s Mongoloid Looking People Face Upsurge of Racism’ cited at least 22 cases of racial discrimination or hate crimes against such people between 7th February and 25th March. These incidents are not very new to the University of Delhi (DU). On 22nd March, an M.Phil student from Manipur was spat on near North Campus and called ‘coronavirus’. A similar incident was reported by two female students of Kirori Mal College (KMC) when they were harassed and called ‘coronavirus’ by a group of six men, who also threw water balloons on them on 3rd March. On a social media group called the ‘Northeast Solidarity Group’, people are sharing their stories of ill-treatment by their neighbours and the society in general. All this clearly exhibits the cruelty and apathy towards the people from Northeastern part of our very own country.

Recently, I attended an online session which talked about ways to manage and control anxiety during the global pandemic. It reflected on the desire of humans to manage and control everything. What I learnt through the session was that grounding yourself in the present situation will help you spin out the negativity and panic. I also know that this is easier said than done.

There are questions, a lot of questions surrounding us right now, some of them like- what about exams? Will they take place online? What about graduation or admission to a master’s degree? However, I firmly believe that spiralling out the what-ifs from our life in a situation like this will help us to feel calmer. Humans are social animals and are hardwired for communication. This is why it is important to stay connected digitally. Social media has emerged as a powerful to communicate with friends and family, in-person meetings have now been substituted for video calls, which more or less acts as boosters for our mental health.
Nevertheless, don’t let the coronavirus dominate your conversation. Remember to take breaks from the stressful situation and talk about work, family, share jokes and laughter. Be kind to yourself, maintain a routine, take out time for the activities you enjoy, exercise, and most importantly, help others. Amid all the stories of people hoarding up the essential supplies and fighting for toilet paper, all of us need to remember, we all are in this together.
I would conclude with a quote circulating in Italy, which says, “We’re standing far apart now so we can embrace each other later.”

Anoushka Sharma

[email protected]

Keep Reading

Arts & Culture

Remembering Safdar Hashmi: Inquilab and Theatre

By DU Beat April 12, 2020

12th April is celebrated as the National Street Theatre day on the birthday of Safdar Hashmi, a celebrated communist playwright and director, gunned down while performing a play.

Born on 12th April 1954, Safdar Hashmi grew to become one of the leading idols for socially conscious artists, communists, and all those who struggle against the reaches of Authoritarianism. His life serves as a inspiration for what it means to stand up and fight for your rights. Safdar Hashmi graduated from St. Stephen’s with a degree in English, and then completed his M.A in English from Delhi University. A member of SFI (Students Federation of India) and IPTA ( Indian People’s Theatre Association), within which he founded his own group Jan Natya Manch (JANAM). Janam’s journey started with machine, a play about capitalism and the eventual victory of the worker. Safdar Hashmi revolutionized street theatre into a form of protest, a form of dissent, into a form of hope, inspiration, and power. It was during a performance Of Halla Bol on 1st January 1989 in Ghaziabad, that Safdar Hashmi was brutally attacked by political goons and died the next day. His memory however lives on, like a burning flame, igniting those of us who stand up against the authoritarian, fascist regime. He remains a source of inspiration and power to this day, in the face of the BJP-RSS and their sinister concoction of CAA-NRC-NPR.

Safdar Hashmi's Funeral, Image Credits: MOMA Website — Safdar Hashmi’s Funeral, Image Credits: MOMA Website

Safdar Hashmi is not far from the minds of the revolutionary youth today, as many still draw inspiration from him on how they shape their life and activism. Adrija Bhadra, a first year student of Kirori Mal College says, “I’ve been involved with Jan Natya Manch and Dastak as part of their music teams, and both of those collectives are heavily devoted to the work and ideology of Safdar Hashmi. The way he lived steered me towards the mindset that art without a purpose is useless. His life and work showed me that music and theatre cant be elitist. It has to be made for the people and it has to be political in nature.” Faizan Salik, a second year student in Jamia Millia Islamia, when asked about what he learnt from Safdar Hashmi says “I learnt how theatre can induce so much social change, Safdar’s dedication to Street Theatre in fighting against the social problems has inspired many like me and has definitely our perception in making or watching theatre.”

Mohd Ghufran, who passed out from Jamia in 2013, and one of the founders of the Awaaz Theatre Society reminisces fondly about how he was introduced to Safdar Hashmi “I was introduced to Safdar Hashmi very late unfortunately. There was one event in 2013 organised by my team and there comes one volunteer who was helping us with the venue. He gave us two options, Habib Tanveer open air theatre and Safdar Hashmi amphitheater. This is how I got to know about Safdar Hashmi who I later started reading about him. A proud moment I remember is I was able walk on the same stage where Habib Tanveer did and I was able to perform on the stage that is dedicated to Safdar Hashmi. Later, I wrote few street plays and we used to them in saket, community center and different places in Delhi.

Sudhanva Deshpande, the author of Halla Bol, a book on the life and times of Safdar Hashmi, a member of JANAM, and a renowned actor says “Safdar Hashmi was 34 years when he was killed in 1989, and now its already 32 years since his death. But in a way you could say that he is more alive today than ever before, in the sense that before the lockdown, you could see his poetry being represented in the library at Shaheen Bagh, you could see his face and his name being represented in so many student protests across the country on several campuses. When the JNU campus was attacked by Right Wing goons, Aishe Ghosh held up a copy of Halla Bol, which is a book on Safdar Hashmi and so on. I think its really important for young people to draw inspiration from this incredible artist, this political artist who dedicated his life to his art, entirely to the cause of the working people.”

Featured Image Credits: Telegraph India

Prabhanu Kumar Das

[email protected]

Keep Reading