Popular culture, or the Gen Z lifestyle as it is described these days, cannot be allowed to overwhelm all aspects of life. Its prevalence, which is magnified by social media, does not seem to have even the logical boundaries required for a normal existence. Why should, for instance, a ‘rapper’ be the main performer at a students’ event in a (formerly) prestigious institution like the DAV PG College in Dehradun? Particularly when the Chief Guest is none other than the head of the state government? Is this not pandering to the more ‘tamasic’ element in our psyche?
The dangers in this approach became evident when the star performer unleashed an abusive rant that has brought great disrepute to the college and Dehradun. He has apologised after the outrage he caused, claiming that he was under psychological pressure. The fact remains, however, that the civility required for the particular occasion did not exist in him. This is because even the basic boundaries have disappeared from present day popular culture, as becomes evident from even a casual look at social media interactions and reels. It is not that quality content does not exist, but the algorithmic promotion prefers the cheap and provocative material to cater to the highest common denominator.
This incident reveals that the ‘influence’ of real life educators has greatly declined in educational institutions. Achievers in various fields no longer inspire the youth to fuel their dreams and aspirations for the future. Those who care about careers and manifesting their inherent talents in achievements are considered ‘nerds’ by their fellows. It is the cheap and easily available intoxicant that finds acceptance, as it requires very little effort on the consumer’s part.
It is natural for young people to fall for such temptation and it is the responsibility of the wider community to establish barriers and railings to ensure they do not stray too much. A little bit of experimentation is natural, but those doing so should be made fully aware of the likely consequences. It is important, therefore, for educational institutions in particular to ensure high standards of behaviour and performance are maintained through intelligent application of rules. It is, of course, not an easy task as the required liberal and open-minded environment can fall victim to an unnecessarily rigid approach. The best way to raise the standards is to present the alternatives, which they may not entirely appreciate at the time, but will establish a standard that will always remain with them. The rappers they can hear and relate to in their own time!
