In today’s digital age, social media has become a powerful tool for self-expression, connection, and entertainment. However, it has also given rise to a troubling trend: the exploitation of women’s bodies for likes, views, and fleeting fame. Recent incidents, such as those during the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, highlight how some individuals resort to sensationalism and objectification to gain attention on platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok. While these videos may go viral, they come at a significant cost—perpetuating harmful stereotypes, degrading women, and normalizing the idea that a woman’s worth lies solely in her physical appearance. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ruchi Singh (@ruchisingh8885) The Viral Videos from Maha Kumbh: A Case Study The Maha Kumbh, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, is a sacred event where millions gather to seek spiritual blessings. However, during the recent event in Prayagraj, some attendees seemed more focused on creating viral content than on the spiritual significance of the occasion. Several videos featuring young women went viral, not for their devotion or talent, but for their provocative and sensational content. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ruchi Singh (@ruchisingh8885) These videos are not isolated incidents. They are part of a larger trend where women are reduced to objects of entertainment, their bodies commodified for clicks and engagement. The Problem: Exploitation for Social Media Fame The common thread in these videos is the exploitation of women’s bodies for social media fame. The creators of such content often lack any meaningful talent—be it dancing, singing, comedy, or storytelling. Instead, they rely on sensationalism and body display to attract attention. This not only devalues the content but also sends a dangerous message: that a woman’s worth is tied to her physical appearance. What’s even more troubling is the societal harm caused by such trends. When women are consistently portrayed as objects of desire, it reinforces harmful stereotypes and perpetuates the idea that their primary role is to entertain and please others. This not only affects how women are perceived but also how they perceive themselves. एक यह भी तो था pic.twitter.com/OOlmHDEH0H — एस. कुमार (@kumarsambhav80) February 23, 2025 The Impact on Women and Society The consequences of such viral trends are far-reaching. For the women featured in these videos, the immediate gain of likes and views comes at the cost of their dignity and self-respect. They are often judged, harassed, and objectified, both online and offline. The psychological toll of being reduced to a mere object can be devastating, leading to issues like low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ruchi Singh (@ruchisingh8885) For society, these videos contribute to a culture of objectification and misogyny. Young viewers, in particular, may develop skewed perceptions of women, seeing them as nothing more than their bodies. This not only harms gender relations but also undermines efforts to promote equality and respect. The Role of Social Media Platforms While content creators bear responsibility for the videos they produce, social media platforms must also be held accountable. Algorithms that prioritize engagement over ethics often promote sensational and provocative content, as it generates more clicks and ad revenue. This creates a vicious cycle where creators are incentivized to push boundaries, often at the expense of women’s dignity. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ruchi Singh (@ruchisingh8885) Despite having community guidelines, many platforms fail to enforce them consistently. Videos that exploit women’s bodies often slip through the cracks, reaching millions of viewers before being taken down—if they are removed at all. This lack of strict moderation sends a message that such content is acceptable, further normalizing the exploitation of women. The Need for Awareness and Change To address this issue, a collective effort is needed. Viewers must stop consuming and sharing such content, as every like and share perpetuates the problem. Content creators should focus on producing meaningful and respectful content that celebrates talent, culture, and individuality rather than sensationalism. Social media platforms must take a stronger stance against exploitative content. This includes revising algorithms to prioritize ethical content, enforcing stricter moderation, and promoting positive role models. Additionally, society must work towards changing the way women are portrayed and perceived in media, emphasizing their achievements, talents, and humanity rather than their physical appearance. Conclusion The viral videos from the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj are a stark reminder of the dark side of social media. While they may generate likes and views, they come at a significant cost—degrading women, perpetuating harmful stereotypes, and normalizing exploitation. It’s time for us to reflect on our role in this cycle and take action to promote a healthier, more respectful digital culture. Let’s celebrate women for who they are, not for how they look, and work together to create a world where everyone is valued for their humanity, not their body.
