IIT Bombay Imposes a fine of 1.2 Lakhs on Students Over Controversial Play based on Ramayana

At least 8 students of IIT Bombay have been fined a whopping sum of 1.2 lakhs following a performance of the play "Raahovan" during the institute's annual Performing Arts Festival in March. The play claimed to be loosely based on the Ramayana, drew criticism from a certain section of the students for its portrayal of the lead characters, which they deemed derogatory.

IIT Bombay issued the penalty notices on June 4, following a disciplinary committee meeting in May where the students were given an opportunity to present their case. As per reports, the graduating students involved were fined Rs 1.2 lakh each and stripped of eligibility for gymkhana awards, while junior students received fines of Rs 40,000 each and were barred from hostel facilities. The fines, almost equivalent to a semester's fee, are due by July 20, 2024.

A campus group named 'IIT B for Bharat', which advocates for "Indic civilisational values", expressed support for the institute's actions, alleging that the play ridiculed Hindu deities. They had previously protested against the play and welcomed the penalties imposed by the institute. The controversy stemmed from allegations that the play misrepresented characters from the Ramayana, triggering a debate on artistic freedom versus religious sentiments.

Critics argued that academic freedom had been misused to mock religious figures, calling for clearer guidelines to prevent such incidents in the future. However, some students defended the play, describing it as a feminist reinterpretation of tribal society that was well-received by the audience and judges at the festival.​