Featured book on Jail

LANGUAGE AND PRINCIPLES OF ONLINE NEWS WRITING

Nov 26, 2023

Delhi Police: Podcasts: Kissa Khaki Ka: Episode 94

 Promo of Episode 94:



Ninety-Fourth Episode of Kissa Khaki Ka: Released on 26 November 2023:


Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/K8OFtfw1b24

Nov 24, 2023

2023: 26 November: Vartika Nanda is conferred the first Raj Kumar Keswani Award in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh

First Rajkumar Keswani Award to Dr. Vartika Nanda: Ceremony held in Bhopal on 26th November

Moving tributes were paid to the distinguished journalist Raj Kumar Keswani, in a special programme organised on his 73rd birth anniversary to commemorate his impactful investigative journalism, especially on Bhopal gas tragedy, and exceptional writing. The inaugural Rajkumar Keswani Award was presented to Dr. Vartika Nanda for her extraordinary contribution to prison reforms. The award, which includes a cash prize of one lakh rupees, a citation, and a memento, acknowledges Nanda's persistent endeavours in fulfilling communication needs of prison inmates in India through Tinka Tinka Foundation. She has 

The ceremony took place at the Madhavrao Sapre Newspaper Museum in Bhopal, where prominent lyricist Irshad Kamil and film writer Rumi Jaffrey were in attendance. Theatre artist and actor Rajiv Verma presided over the programme. Reflecting on Keswani's immense contribution, Museum founder Dr. Vijay Dutt Sridhar noted that Keswani was perhaps the sole voice who repeatedly pointed out the dangers of the safety lapses in the Union Carbide Plant, long before the Bhopal gas tragedy  actually struck in 1984. Keswani, an influential figure in both print and television media, succumbed to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021. His widely admired 'Aapas Ki Baat' column attested to his unique style of film writing, garnering huge  readership.

राजकुमार केसवानी की स्मृति में उनके नाम पर पहला सम्मान पत्रकार डॉ. वर्तिका नन्दा को 

2023: 26 नवंबर। मध्य प्रदेश की राजधानी भोपाल में रविवार, 26 नवंबर को विख्यात पत्रकार स्वर्गीय राजकुमार केसवानी की स्मृति में उनके नाम पर पहला सम्मान पत्रकार डॉ. वर्तिका नन्दा को दिया गया. माधवराव सप्रे समाचार-पत्र संग्रहालय में आयोजित इस समारोह में डॉ. नंदा को सम्मान स्वरूप एक लाख रुपये की राशि, शॉल-श्रीफल दिया गया. 

कार्यक्रम में गीतकार और लेखक इरशाद कामिल, अभिनेता राजीव वर्मा और फिल्म राइटर रूमी जाफरी विशेष रूप से उपस्थित थे. इनके अलावा, पद्मश्री विजय दत्त श्रीधर, राजेश बादल, अशोक मनवानी सहित पत्रकारिता जगत की अन्य हस्तियां और स्वर्गीय केसवानी के बेटे रौनक केसवानी व अन्य परिजन कार्यक्रम में मोजूद रहे.







































YouTube: First Raj Kumar Keswani Award to Vartika Nanda in Bhopal। 2023। राजकुमार केसवानी। वर्तिका नन्दा - YouTube

भोपाल में राजकुमार केसवानी की जयंती पर अलंकरण समारोह हुआ आयोजित |DD NEWS MP| #jansampark - YouTube

Link to website: Awards – Vartika Nanda

Nov 19, 2023

Kissa Khaki Ka I Ep 93| Blind Murder Case| Delhi Police | Vartika Nanda


Kissa Khaki Ka I Ep 93| Blind Murder Case| Delhi Police | Vartika Nanda

19 November, 2023



 


Kissa Khaki Ka I Promo Ep 93| Blind Murder Case| Delhi Police | Vartika Nanda

17 November, 2023


Nov 15, 2023

IOJ/ IBM NOTES: CITIZEN JOURNALISM

Prepared from the book”Citizen journalism:Global perspectives” edited by:Stuart Allan and Einia Thorson

CHAPTER 1 (HISTORIES OF CITIZEN JOURNALISM) Begins with the contestation over the idea of citizen journalism. Builds upon the difference in the perspective over the Indian and Western context of citizen journalism.For eg:the difference in reporting style and coverage of the Indian Tsunami and US attacks on Pearl Harbour. Underlines the difference in amateurism characteristic to citizen journalism and professionalism in modern day journalism Highlights the concept of crisis reporting As a prominent feature of journalistic landscape,covers the dependance of mass organisations and agencies on these amateur news outlets operating at localised level 

Other names(GRASSROOT JOURNALISM,OPEN SOURCE JOURNALISM,HYPER LOCAL JOURNALISM,DISTRIBUTED JOURNALISM,NETWORKED JOURNALISM) 

Transforms the exclusive domain of professionalism into personalisation. Reaffirms the implicit premise by punctuating tech driven revolution and blending it with repertorial forms and epistemology Captures the emergence of internet as a facilitator. Questions the credibility of internet sites as trustworthy and complex sources in modern era. Magnifies the idea of news information cult by drawing differences between traditional and modern journalism Shows how the emergent ecology of online news has disrupted traditional flow of information,driven socially contingent processes of appropriation,consolidation and reinflection. Shows the shift in priorities between traditional and new media Timelines the first internet war Questions the integrity of repertorial practices. Arrival of cyber journalism with the advent of internet Explores the heightened sense of personal engagement Highlights the highly decentralised network unputdownable by military attacks Consolidation of instant reporters,photographers,journalists and opinion columnists. Diverse and social history highlighted in its rawest form overwhelmed by high user demand. Camera mediated knowledge of war,network society,and its emphasis on people’s platform emphasised. 

Notes prepared by-Nausheen and Khansa

Celebrating 10 years of Tinka Tinka Tihar in South Asia's largest Jail Tihar। तिनका तिनका तिहाड़। 2023। Vartika Nanda

26th September, 2023: 

“Subah likhti hu sham likhti hu iss char diwari mai baithke tera naam likhti hu” - these words of a poem imprinted on the outer wall of Tihar jail was celebrated in women’s jail today on the occasion of the completion of the iconic journey of Tinka Tinka Tihar. The poem written by Seema Raghuvanshi, incarcerated in Tihar, was featured in the popular book Tinka Tinka Tihar, edited by Vartika Nanda (media educator and prison reformer) and Vimla Mehra (IPS) and then DG, Delhi Prisons in 2013. 

After a gap of 10 years, Tinka Tinka Tihar is republished by Tinka Tinka Foundation, showcasing the literary acumen of women inmates lodged in jail number 6 of Tihar. Tinka Tinka Tihar is a long journey comprising of a book, theme song and a long wall painting on the outer walls of jails. The book was released by the Union Minister of Home Affairs at the APCCA Conference in New Delhi in 2013. This book has been translated into 6 languages and is considered to be an authentic version of prison life. The wall outside Tihar Jail is inspired by a poem composed by an inmate, Seema Raghuvanshi, published in the same book. This wall was inaugurated by the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi in 2014. The song was released by Smt. Sumitra Mahajan, Speaker, Lok Sabha. Both the book and the song earned a place in the Limca Book of Records for their originality. A special mention of Tinka Tinka Tihar was made in Prison Statistics India in 2015. On the completion of 10 years of this creativity, Tihar jail officers and staff came together to celebrate its success and brainstormed a future plan of taking Tinka Tinka Tihar to the next level. Second edition of the book was released by Shri Sanjay Baniwal, Director General, (Prisons), Ms.. Vimla Mehra, (IPS) former Director General of Tihar Jail, Shri H.P.S. Saran, Additional Inspector General (Prisons) and Jail Superintendent Krishna Sharma in a gala event in the women’s jail of Tihar on 26th September, 2023. 

Special attraction was an inmate, who had contributed to the book as a poet in 2013, reciting her poems to the audience. She has been incarcerated for nearly 12 years. Jail Superintendent Krishna Sharma and her team showcased a special exhibition with innovative expressions of women inmates on the theme of Tinka Tinka Tihar depicting the 10 year journey from 2013 to 20123. Inmates also relived the experience through a play. The song- Tinka Tinka Tihar- was also sung by them. 

  


Background:

Tinka Tinka Tihar: Initiated in the Tihar prison complex, it involved writing of a book, production of a music video and painting of the outer wall of jail, which turned out as the longest mural painting in India. Released in 2013, the  book Tinka Tinka Tihar presents a collection of poems written by women inmates of Tihar. It was co-edited by Vartika Nanda and Vimla Mehra (IPS), Director General, Delhi Prisons. 

24 September, 2013:  The book was released by the Union Minister of Home Affairs at the APCCA Conference, New Delhi in September, 2013. 
 2015: The book eventually earned its place in the Limca Book of Records for its originality. This book works as a research window on the realities of prison life.
2014:  The outer wall of Tihar prison complex is inspired by a poem composed by an inmate, Seema Raghuvanshi, for the book Tinka Tinka Tihar. This wall was inaugurated by the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi in 2014. 
2015: The musical video Tinka Tinka Tihar, was released by Sumitra Mahajan, Speaker, Lok Sabha. This was produced by Lok Sabha TV. This musical creation found mention in the  Limca Book of Records in 2017. 
This work has been done between the time period of 2013 to 2023 and it still continues. 

BOOK: TINKA TINKA TIHAR: Release of the book
( Editors: Vartika Nanda & Vimla Mehra, IPS, DG, Delhi Prisons)
Co-edited by Vartika Nanda and Vimla Mehra, the book titled- Tinka Tinka Tihar, is the first of its kind, featuring collection of poems written by selected women inmates of the Tihar prison complex. This book is a collection of the poetic expressions of the women who may have been physically restricted in the prison, but have free minds. It makes a unique effort to give a creative platform to incarcerated women. These poems were written by four female inmates during their stay in jail number 6.


24 September, 2013: The book, Tinka Tinka Tihar (both in Hindi and in English), was released by the Union Minister of Home Affairs, Government of India, at the International 33rd Asian and Pacific Conference of Correctional Administrators ( APCCA) on 24 September, 2013 in Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. This international conference was hosted by India for the first time.

26 September, 2024: Second edition of the book released: Tihar Jail number 6: On the completion of 10 years, Tihar jail officers and staff came together to celebrate its success and brainstormed a future plan of taking Tinka Tinka Tihar to the next level. This book was released by Shri Sanjay Baniwal, Director General, (Prisons), Mrs. Vimla Mehra, (IPS) Retd. the then Director General of Tihar Jail Shri H.P.S. Saran, Additional Inspector General (Prisons) and Dr. Vartika Nanda in a gala event in the women’s jail of Tihar. Special attraction was an inmate, who had contributed to the book as a poet in 2013, reciting her poems to the audience. She has been incarcerated for nearly 12 years. 
Link: www.tinkatinka.org



Selected posters on the book:


The above poster is designed by Samiksha Manaktala,  S.Keerthana 
and Priyanka Gupta, students of Department of Journalism, Lady Shri Ram College, Delhi University, during their summer vacation. 




Nov 14, 2023

Kissa Khaki Ka I Ep 92| Sampatti ke liye maa kee hatya| Delhi Police | Vartika Nanda

Kissa Khaki Ka: Episode 92: 12 November, 2023| Sampatti ke liye maa kee hatya| Delhi Police | Vartika Nanda Promo: Kissa Khaki Ka: Episode 92

Nov 12, 2023

Introduction to Journalism: Readings: Weekly Class Report

 November, 2023

Following readings were discussed in the class in the first week of November. Syllabus has been completed. Now, we are revising selected topics.

BOOKS

News Reporting and Editing

•Concept Of News

News- Concept and Definition- News values.

•The News Story

News story structure-Elements of news story-5Ws and H- Intro or lead- Types of intro with

examples- The body- Language of news

•News Gathering

Source or news-Hard and Weak sources- News agencies-Monitoring- Press release or handout-

Press Conference- Press briefings- Division of labour- Beats- Planning news coverage

•Newspaper vs Radio and TV news

Impact of electronic media on newspaper-Differences Radio News-Translation- TV News

2)The Online Journalism Handbook

•Introduction to the second edition

•Histories futures and the changing business technologies of journalism

•Writing for social media and chat apps

•Community, social media management and user generated content

3)Citizen Journalism Global Perspectives

•Histories of Citizen Journalism

•Citizen Journalism in India: The Politics Of Recognition

•OhmyNews: Citizen Journalism in South Korea

•User Generated Content and Journalistic Values

•The Future of Citizen Journalism

4.An Introduction To Journalism

• What Is News?

*Selecting the news

Newspapers

Radio news*


Television news

Online news 

Conclusion

•Writing a Story

Writing for Radio , TV and Internet

Nov 6, 2023

Kissa Khaki Ka | Ep 91 | Kuwait se loot kee saazish : 5th November, 2023



Being a support to the Tinkas in Tihar and beyond: Hindustan Times: 5th November, 2023


 

Weekly Report: Advanced Broadcast Media


30th October - 3rd November 2023


This week the topics discussed were Why am I the 'Idiot Box'? and Television rating point. The class had a discussion on it and important points were given by Dr. Vartika Nanda on the same. 


Books from the library were referred for the following topics: Television Genre and formats, Music video and post modernism, Awareness and the use of Social media tools, Impact of social media and live streaming etc


The class also had a test for Internal assessment this week and discussions from books on Media Industry Managament.


Written by-

Batch 2024

CR, Ishita Kisku 







Nov 3, 2023

Music Videos for Social Commentary and Documentary


Advanced Broadcast Media 

5th Semester


Disclaimer: The note/s given below is/ are a compilation of information taken from various sources. The references to the sources are provided at the end. The views expressed in the note/s are those of the concerned student/s/ intern/s. The blogger or the compiler will not be responsible in any manner whatsoever regarding the authenticity of the information provided in the note/s.


Music has always held the potential to transcend boundaries, communicate profound emotions, and serve as a vehicle for expressing the unspoken. When combined with the visual storytelling prowess of film, music becomes a potent tool for addressing some of society's most pressing issues. Music videos for social commentary or as documentaries are a compelling fusion of art and activism, employing the emotive power of music and the storytelling capabilities of film to illuminate critical social, political, and cultural concerns.


Importance and promotion of Music videos


Music has a unique ability to evoke emotions, making it a potent tool for conveying social and documentary messages. The combination of music and visuals can deeply resonate with viewers, inspiring empathy and action. The visual element of music videos adds a layer of engagement that written or spoken messages alone may lack. Visuals can make the message more relatable and memorable. Many social and documentary music videos include a call to action, urging viewers to get involved, support a cause, or seek more information. This can lead to tangible change and support for the issues raised. The promotion and dissemination of such videos are crucial to reaching a broad audience and fostering meaningful dialogue and change.


All India Radio (AIR), commonly referred to as Akashvani, holds a significant and enduring role in the promotion and propagation of music in India. Its impact on the country's musical landscape is multifaceted, encompassing classical, folk, contemporary, and regional genres. AIR's influence on popular culture and its role in live concert broadcasts make it a crucial force in India's music scene.


MIB actively promotes Indian music and culture through various government programs and initiatives. This includes supporting the production and dissemination of music videos that showcase India's diverse musical traditions, helping preserve and promote the country's cultural heritage. Through regulation, licensing, broadcasting policies, financial support, cultural initiatives, and international collaborations, MIB contributes to the growth, recognition, and preservation of music videos as an integral part of India's cultural landscape.


Doordarshan (DD), the national public service broadcaster in India, has played a significant role in promoting music videos in the country. DD offers a prominent platform for music videos, showcasing a diverse range of genres, from classical and folk to contemporary and popular styles. Through music-focused programs, countdown shows, and talent hunt competitions, DD has provided exposure to both established and emerging artists. Live music broadcasts of concerts and events, educational programs, and collaborations with international organizations further expand DD's influence in the world of music. In the digital era, DD continues to adapt, making music videos accessible through online platforms and social media, reaching a broader, tech-savvy audience. DD's enduring presence in the Indian music industry underscores its vital role in the promotion and dissemination of music videos.



Key characteristics of music videos for social commentary or as documentaries:

  1. Purposeful Message: These music videos have a clear and intentional message related to a social issue, such as climate change, human rights, inequality, discrimination, or other pressing topics.

  2. Lyrics with Depth: The lyrics of the song featured in the video often contain meaningful and thought-provoking content that directly addresses the chosen social issue. These lyrics may include storytelling, metaphors, or symbolism.

  3. Visual Storytelling: Visual elements are used to enhance and complement the message of the song. This can include narrative storytelling, striking imagery, or footage that illustrates real-life situations and events related to the issue.

  4. Emotional Impact: Music videos for social commentary aim to evoke emotions in viewers, whether it's empathy, anger, hope, or a call to action. The combination of music and visuals intensifies the emotional response.

  5. Documentary Elements: Some of these music videos incorporate documentary-style techniques, such as interviews, testimonials, news footage, or archival clips, to provide context, evidence, or real-world examples of the issue at hand.

  6. Advocacy and Awareness: The primary goal is often to raise awareness about the social issue and advocate for change. Viewers are encouraged to become more informed about the topic and, in some cases, take action, such as supporting a cause or organization.

  7. Artistic Expression: While these videos are driven by a social message, they also allow for artistic expression. Creative use of visuals, cinematography, and music composition can make the video more engaging and memorable.

  8. Distribution and Impact: These music videos are typically shared through various platforms, including social media, video-sharing websites, and sometimes television. The impact is measured not only by views but also by the discussion and conversation they generate around the issue.


History

1. Early Years (1950s-1960s):

  • In the early years of Indian cinema, music and song sequences were an integral part of films, but they often focused on romantic or traditional themes rather than social commentary.

  • The music industry was still developing, and music videos as standalone entities were rare.

2. The Emergence of Parallel Cinema (1970s-1980s):

  • The emergence of parallel cinema in India during the 1970s and 1980s brought about a shift in the portrayal of social issues in films and, by extension, music videos.

  • Filmmakers like Satyajit Ray, Shyam Benegal, and Govind Nihalani began to incorporate social commentary into their movies, influencing music videos as well.

  • Music videos started to explore themes like poverty, inequality, and political unrest, though they were not as prevalent as they would later become.

3. The Rise of Indi-Pop (1990s):

  • The 1990s saw the rise of the Indi-Pop genre, which included music videos that often addressed contemporary social issues.

  • Artists like Baba Sehgal, Alisha Chinai, and Euphoria began creating music videos with social commentary elements.

  • Songs like "Dil Chahta Hai" by Euphoria tackled issues like urban alienation and the fast-paced modern lifestyle.

4. Global Influence and Music Television (Late 1990s-2000s):

  • The late 1990s and early 2000s witnessed the increasing influence of global music trends and the advent of music television channels like MTV and Channel [V].

  • Indian musicians and directors started adopting Western music video styles, and this period saw the production of music videos with international production values.

  • Themes related to love, relationships, and youth culture remained prominent, but socially conscious music videos continued to gain traction.

5. Internet and Digital Era (Late 2000s-Present):

  • With the rise of the internet and digital platforms, music videos became more accessible to a global audience.

  • Independent artists and filmmakers found it easier to create and distribute music videos that addressed a wide range of social issues.

  • Issues such as gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights, environmental conservation, mental health, and political activism started featuring prominently in music videos.

  • Social media and video-sharing platforms like YouTube allowed these videos to go viral and reach a vast audience, contributing to their impact.

6. Fusion of Art and Activism (Present):

  • In recent years, Indian music videos for social commentary and documentaries have evolved to become powerful tools of activism and advocacy.

  • Artists and filmmakers collaborate to create visually stunning and emotionally resonant videos that tackle issues such as women's rights, discrimination, poverty, and climate change.

  • The fusion of art and activism has led to an increased awareness of these issues and inspired individuals to take action and engage in meaningful discussions.

7. Mainstream Bollywood and Social Themes (Present):

  • Even within mainstream Bollywood cinema, there has been a noticeable shift toward incorporating social themes into music videos.

  • Bollywood actors and directors have used their influence to address issues like sanitation, education, and women's empowerment through music videos featured in blockbuster films.

8. Regional Diversity (Present):

  • India's rich cultural diversity is reflected in the music videos created across different regions and languages.

  • Regional music industries, such as Tamil, Telugu, Bengali, and Punjabi, have also produced impactful music videos addressing region-specific social issues.

9. Awards and Recognition (Present):

  • Some music videos with strong social commentary have garnered recognition and awards at national and international film festivals, further validating their impact and artistic merit.

In summary, the evolution of music videos for social commentary or as documentaries in India has been a dynamic process shaped by changes in technology, the global music landscape, and the increasing awareness of social issues. These videos have become a significant medium for artists and filmmakers to engage with their audiences on critical topics, spark meaningful conversations, and inspire positive change in society. As technology and creative expression continue to evolve, one can expect even more innovative and impactful music videos in the years to come.


Indian Examples

"Jungle Ke Raja" by Rabbi Shergill (1991): This song by Rabbi Shergill addresses environmental issues and deforestation, with the video featuring stunning visuals of forests and wildlife.


"Dil Se Re" from the film "Dil Se" (1998): The music video is set against the backdrop of political conflict and terrorism in the Northeastern region of India. It effectively conveys the complex issue of insurgency in the area.


"Mauka" by Indian Ocean (1999): This music video addresses environmental concerns, particularly deforestation and its impact on wildlife and indigenous communities. The video's message highlights the need for environmental conservation and preservation of our natural heritage.


"Indian Ocean - Black Friday Theme" (2007): This music video is a part of the soundtrack of the film "Black Friday," which is based on the 1993 Bombay bombings. The video, with its haunting melody and visuals, delves into the issue of terrorism and its impact on society.


"Sona Mohapatra - Rangabati" (2015): This Sambalpuri folk song was reimagined as a music video by Sona Mohapatra and her band. It celebrates the beauty of Odisha and its culture, aiming to promote regional pride and awareness of Odia traditions.


"The Dewarists - I Believe" (2011): Part of the Dewar's India music series, this video features artists from different parts of India coming together to celebrate unity in diversity. It emphasizes the need for cultural harmony and social inclusivity.


Regulations

There are regulations and guidelines in place for music videos in India, primarily governed by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. MIB is responsible for regulating the content of music videos to ensure that they adhere to Indian cultural and ethical standards. This regulation helps maintain the quality and appropriateness of music videos, making them accessible to a broader audience.


Content Guidelines: Music videos in India, like films, need to adhere to certain content guidelines. These guidelines primarily focus on issues related to obscenity, violence, and religious sensitivity. Any content that violates these guidelines can be subject to censorship or modification by the CBFC.


Age Restrictions: The CBFC assigns age certifications to music videos, similar to movies. These certifications include "U" (Universal), "UA" (Parental Guidance), "A" (Adult), and others. The choice of certification depends on the content of the music video.


Copyright and Licensing: Music videos must also adhere to copyright laws. Proper licensing and permissions are required for using copyrighted music or visuals in a video. MIB oversees licensing and copyright issues related to music videos. This ensures that artists and content creators are appropriately compensated for their work, which in turn promotes creativity and the production of high-quality music videos.


Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021: In February 2021, the Indian government introduced new rules that apply to social media platforms, digital news outlets, and OTT (Over-the-Top) platforms. These rules impose several requirements, including:

  • Content Removal: Platforms are required to remove or disable access to content within 36 hours of receiving a court order or a government directive.

  • Grievance Redressal Mechanism: Platforms must establish grievance redressal mechanisms and appoint officers to address user complaints.

  • Traceability of Messages: Messaging apps are required to enable traceability of the originator of certain content upon government request.

  • User Verification: Social media platforms may be required to verify the identity of users.


Self-Regulation: Some online platforms have formed self-regulatory bodies to address content-related issues and provide a framework for content regulation.


Laws Against Hate Speech and Defamation: Online platforms are expected to adhere to Indian laws regarding hate speech, defamation, and other legal issues. They may be asked to cooperate with law enforcement agencies when such issues arise.



Global Perspective 

One of the most notable aspects of music videos with a social commentary or documentary focus is their ability to transcend linguistic and cultural barriers. Through the universal language of music, they can connect with audiences from diverse backgrounds, fostering empathy and understanding


In an era marked by digital interconnectedness, these videos spread rapidly through online platforms, reaching millions of viewers and igniting conversations. Social media, video-sharing sites, and streaming services have become vital distribution channels, enabling the global reach and influence of these videos.


For instance, "Imagine" by John Lennon, an anthem for peace and unity, touched hearts across the world. Similarly, "We Are the World" brought together a constellation of global music stars to address the issue of poverty and hunger. These songs and their accompanying videos served as anthems of hope and solidarity, resonating with people of diverse backgrounds.


Moreover, music videos often tackle complex, multifaceted issues. They utilize symbolism, metaphor, and real-world testimonials to deliver their messages. For example, Beyoncé's "Formation" powerfully addresses issues of race and identity, drawing on powerful visual imagery and lyrics. Likewise, Michael Jackson's "Earth Song" uses evocative visuals to explore environmental issues and humanity's impact on the planet.


"Blowin' in the Wind" (1962): This iconic song became an anthem of the civil rights movement and the broader struggle for equality. Its questions about peace, freedom, and justice resonated deeply with audiences.


Childish Gambino's "This Is America" dissected issues of gun violence and racism in the United States, creating a global sensation with its stark imagery and thought-provoking lyrics. The video ignited discussions on race, gun control, and violence in various parts of the world, underlining its power to inspire dialogue and awareness.


Music videos with a social commentary or documentary focus often underscore the interconnection of global issues. They emphasize that no problem exists in isolation and that solutions require collective action. They tackle pressing global challenges, such as climate change, refugee crises, and human rights violations, urging viewers to reflect on their role in the world and their potential to drive change.



Conclusion: The Intersection of Art and Activism

Music videos for social commentary and as documentaries occupy a unique space in the realm of art and activism. They harness the emotive power of music and the visual storytelling capabilities of film to shine a spotlight on important societal issues. By engaging with viewers on an emotional and intellectual level, these videos have the potential to inspire awareness, empathy, and action.

In an age where content is widely disseminated through digital channels, these music videos have the ability to reach a global audience and shape public opinion. They serve as a testament to the enduring power of art as a force for social change. As artists, musicians, and filmmakers continue to explore this dynamic medium, the fusion of art and activism through music videos for social commentary and documentaries will undoubtedly remain a vital and impactful form of creative expression.

Compiled and Edited by:

Ishita Kisku 

Batch of 2024

B.A. (Hons.) Journalism

Lady Shri Ram College for Women, University of Delhi