Abstract

Dissent is the bedrock of democracy. While traditional forms of dissent, such as sit-in protests and sloganeering, exist, alternative forms of protests have emerged that are non-violent, creative, and artistic. Within this context, I wish to explore contemporary activism in India through dance. I will not only analyse the various forms of rhythmic body movements by the protesters but will also delve into the semantics of dance that can provide me with a vocabulary to understand activism and the law that aids or regulates it. I, therefore, use the word ‘movement’ as a homonym in the title to depict body movements as well as social action. Being one of the most basic human instincts, dance, within its fluidity, encompasses many emotions that can be so liberating and can further mobilise solidarity. Dance as activism has been witnessed across the world through street dance, flash mobs, or spontaneous movements, which can be extremely cathartic to the dancer-activist as well as other protesters. Amidst this, the law has played an essential role in both regulating dance4 and dance activism. Considering the present-day instances of dance activism in India, I wish to engage with critical and socio-legal theory alongside the Indian laws that regulate free expression. Through this paper, it is my endeavour to assess how the law manoeuvres through these movements and performances and how it will affect dance activism in future.

How to Cite:

Marada, H., (2026) “Dance and Dissent in India: Exploring ‘Movement’ and Law through Emotions”, Law Text Culture 29(1), 110–124. doi: https://doi.org/10.14453/ltc.1863