Contradictory Perspectives on Expression and Restriction A Decadal Analysis of Socio Cultural Censorship on Hindi Cinema 2008 17

Abstract

In a contemporary political set up, particularly in a democratic structure some features are seen as sacrosanct; one of the most recognized of these features around the world is freedom which is imperative for human advancement. However, these freedoms do not come without restrictions. newlineAll mediums see different kinds of restrictions, of which Hindi Cinema is the field that is chosen to be studied in this work, as its impact is seen widely. This research has studied socio-cultural censorshipusing the theoretical perspectives of Foucault s Discourse Analysis and Post-Modernism. This research critically examined the two contradictory points of view in film censorship. The facet of Censorship that has been examined is socio-cultural censorship as yet there are no predefined areas under which these groups demand this kind of censorship. newlineTriangulation approach has been followed for this study.The first step included content analysis. In the process of content analysis, articles and reports were collected from selected media. Once this was completed, the second step comprised the use of phenomenological approach for analysis. newlineThe study has clarified the point that expression and restriction though may seem to be contradictory to someone who is looking at it in a superficial manner but the two aspects are complimentary and not contradictory. However, a conflict between the two reflects a certain power struggle which is an ongoing process. The research has clearly indicated that the power now is clearly shifting; and it is this shift in power that is leading to increased conflict in society.On the face of it, the study talks about Cinema, Society and Censorship but actually it is a study about freedom of speech and expression, restriction, conflict, multiculturalism, power, a subtle struggle for power, dominance, narratives, discourse, hegemony of ideas and a constant evolution of ideas. newline newline