For any student, half of the Delhi University experience is its vibrant campus life. In the age of Instagram, where reels dominate social communication and expression, digitally capturing snippets of daily life has become Gen Z's way of being present. Ask any fresher, and they will tell you how half of their first year was spent making reels.
The Irony of Restriction
In an era where half the videos online are about creating content—'learn how to earn through your videos', 'this is how much I make with brand deals', and 'how to be financially independent as an influencer'—seeing a college take that away from students feels deeply ironic. Colleges are spaces where students explore, express themselves, and find their identity among a diverse mix of people. Digital expression shapes youth culture, and restricting it within college campuses seems out of step with student realities.
Content Creators in Every Class
Every class has a few content creators simply trying their hand at content creation, with some even making it in the industry. From simple 'get ready with me' videos to documenting fests, freshers' parties, and farewells, college reel culture is not disruptive; it is creative expression at its finest. Colleges are meant to nurture creativity and self-expression, so restricting a medium can feel like a harsh step for students who are trying to learn from it.
Balancing Regulation and Freedom
While institutions naturally want to avoid any untoward incidents, which seems fair, regulating student expression this closely can feel overly restrictive. The challenge lies in balancing safety concerns with the need to foster a creative environment where students can experiment and grow.
About the Author: Sara Siddiqui writes about city, lifestyle, and culture. She is a Delhiite and can be found around books.
