In a thought-provoking address at a prestigious academic conference in Bengaluru, acclaimed film director Dibakar Banerjee delivered a crucial message to the younger generation about navigating today's complex political landscape. Speaking at the inaugural ceremony of the 10th edition of MediaCon, Banerjee emphasized that students must intellectually prepare themselves for a world where abstract political concepts have become tangible realities.
The Reality of Populism and Authoritarianism
Banerjee highlighted that forces such as populism and authoritarianism are no longer distant political theories but concrete realities that actively influence everyday decisions and societal structures. He made these remarks during the international annual academic conference organized by the School of Communication and Media Studies at St Joseph's University, Bengaluru, which took place on Friday.
MediaCon's Timely Theme
The conference centered around the highly relevant theme "Populism and Media: Power, Platforms and Voices in a Polarised World." This theme provided a comprehensive examination of how digital platforms, traditional legacy media, and emerging alternative voices collectively shape political discourse, mold public opinion, and influence democratic participation within an increasingly divided global context.
Banerjee's Advice to Students
The renowned filmmaker offered practical guidance to students, stating: "Practising your dreams, flexing your brains, and figuring out what you want to do and what you don't will determine how well you survive what lies ahead." He stressed the paramount importance of developing critical thinking skills and cultivating self-awareness as essential tools for navigating future challenges.
University Leadership on Media Responsibility
Fr Victor Lobo, the Vice-Chancellor of St Joseph's University, complemented Banerjee's message by addressing the significant responsibility that accompanies media influence. He cautioned: "The media is power. Use it with care. What you create can divide or heal." This statement underscored the dual potential of media platforms to either fragment societies or foster healing and understanding.
The Broader Implications
The discussions at MediaCon highlighted several critical aspects of contemporary media and politics:
- The transformation of political theories into daily realities affecting ordinary citizens
- The crucial role of digital platforms in amplifying or suppressing diverse voices
- The enduring influence of traditional media in an era of rapid technological change
- The need for media literacy and critical thinking among younger generations
- The ethical responsibilities of content creators and media professionals
This event brought together academic perspectives and practical insights from industry professionals, creating a meaningful dialogue about how media shapes our understanding of political movements and social dynamics in today's polarized world.
