IIT Bombay slaps Rs 1.2 lakh fine on students for derogatory "Ramayana" play

IIT Bombay has fined eight students for staging a play deemed derogatory to the Ramayana during its Performing Arts Festival. The disciplinary action followed complaints alleging the play mocked cultural and religious values. Graduating students were fined ₹1.2 lakh each, and juniors were fined ₹40,000 each. The controversy sparked a debate on artistic freedom and respect for religious sentiments, with opinions divided on the institute's decision.