By Pankaj Debbarma
The Kokborok music video industry has witnessed tremendous growth, gaining popularity for its ability to express diverse ideas and emotions. However, alongside its success, there is a rising concern about the negative impact these music videos have on women’s portrayal in society. Many Kokborok music videos inadvertently perpetuate objectification and sexualization, reducing women to mere objects of desire and reinforcing harmful gender stereotypes. This article aims to delve into the issue of objectification and misogyny in Kokborok music videos and highlight the significance of self-regulation by creators to promote a more positive and empowering representation of women in Tiprasa society.
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐦 𝐨𝐟 𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐌𝐢𝐬𝐨𝐠𝐲𝐧𝐲
The portrayal of women in Kokborok music videos often centers on objectification and sexualization. Women are frequently depicted in revealing attire, presented as mere eye candy, or shown in subservient roles catering to male desires. This objectification strips women of agency and autonomy, reducing them to their physical appearance and perpetuating harmful stereotypes.
Moreover, some lyrics romanticize harassment and propagate the notion that women’s happiness and success depend on male validation. These recurring themes promote the idea that women are weaker and reliant on men, fostering an environment where harmful attitudes towards women are normalized.
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐭 𝐨𝐧 𝐒𝐨𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐭𝐲
Music videos wield significant influence over societal perceptions and behaviours. These visual representations shape cultural norms and influence how individuals perceive gender roles and relationships. When women are continually objectified in music videos, it can lead to the internalization of harmful attitudes and behaviours towards women in real life.
Young audiences, in particular, are susceptible to the messages conveyed in music videos. Prolonged exposure to objectification can impact their beliefs about gender, relationships, and self-worth, perpetuating detrimental dynamics in society.
𝐒𝐞𝐥𝐟-𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐮𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐩𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐂𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧
Creators of Kokborok music videos hold immense power in shaping narratives and imagery presented to the audience. Therefore, it is crucial for them to exercise self-regulation and be mindful of the messages they convey.
𝐀. 𝐄𝐦𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐃𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐄𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭
A significant step towards empowering women in music videos is to depict them in diverse roles that go beyond stereotypes. Celebrating women’s talents, accomplishments, and strengths rather than focusing solely on physical appearance can foster positive role models for the audience.
𝐁. 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐨𝐭𝐲𝐩𝐞𝐬
Creators have a unique opportunity to challenge traditional gender norms and stereotypes through their work. By consciously creating content that defies gender expectations, they can contribute to a more inclusive and egalitarian society.
𝐂. 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧
Incorporating women’s perspectives in the creative process is essential. Collaborating with women as writers, directors, and producers can provide invaluable insights and ensure a more sensitive and authentic portrayal of female experiences.
𝐄𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐩𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠
Music videos can serve as a platform to address relevant social issues and promote positive messages. Creators can use their art to tell stories that emphasize the importance of consent, healthy relationships, and mutual respect. Responsible storytelling can contribute to changing attitudes and fostering a culture of empowerment and equality.
𝐌𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐚 𝐋𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐀𝐮𝐝𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬
Promoting media literacy among the audience can empower individuals to critically analyse music videos and be more conscious of the messages conveyed. Encouraging discerning consumption can help the audience question and challenge harmful representations.
The Kokborok music video industry’s growth has brought with it the responsibility to empower and respect women through responsible content creation. The objectification and misogynistic portrayal of women in these videos perpetuate harmful gender stereotypes and contribute to a culture that diminishes women’s agency and worth.
Nevertheless, creators possess the power to drive positive change. Through self-regulation and responsible storytelling, they can reshape cultural narratives and challenge harmful norms. Embracing diversity, empowerment, and collaboration with women in the creative process can pave the way for more inclusive and empowering representations of women in Kokborok music videos. Ultimately, through collective efforts, the industry can redefine its portrayal of women and create a more equitable and respectful Tiprasa society.
