BJP, Shiv Sena Get a ‘Kiss of Love’ From Kerala’s Youth

Kerala’s youth have found an innovative way to reclaim their access to the public sphere.

Hundreds gathered in Kochi to protest against moral policing by Shiv Sena activists. (Photo: ANI Screengrab)

Not with sticks or stones, but with hugs and kisses, Kerala’s youth have found an innovative way to respond to the self-proclaimed moral brigade that shoved, pushed and attacked couples at Kochi’s iconic Marine Drive on Wednesday which was the International Women’s Day.

Based on an invite sent over Facebook, scores of artists, students and activists sought to reclaim their access to the public sphere, as they kissed and hugged in open defiance of Shiv Sena and other such ultra-conservative outfits. Teeming with young hearts and minds, the popular promenade witnessed an atmosphere filled with music and love.

No one is brave enough to stop us from what we want to do.

Ayesha, Protester

Meanwhile, the BJP and Sena workers held a parallel protest on the shoreline. Their voices, however, were drowned in songs that spoke of love and freedom.

Video Editor: Ashutosh Bhardwaj