iWorld
The digital public square: How social media is shaping political discourse
Mumbai: The advent of social media has orchestrated a paradigm shift in the realm of human communication and information consumption, a transformation that resonates deeply within the corridors of political discourse. Within this digital agora, where every voice is granted a forum, political luminaries, advocates, and everyday citizens converge in the symphony of political deliberation.
Foremost among the profound impacts that social media has etched into political discourse is its magnanimous facilitation of diverse voices. In times past, political dialogues predominantly reverberated through the hallowed chambers of traditional media outlets, such as newspapers, television, and radio, often under the stewardship of corporate behemoths harboring a vested interest in perpetuating the status quo.
Yet, the advent of social media has dismantled these confines, bestowing upon anyone with an internet connection the privilege of disseminating their thoughts on political affairs. This monumental democratization of expression has kindled a multifarious and all-encompassing public dialogue, where an expansive spectrum of perspectives now finds its rightful place in the limelight.
Further enhancing its influence, social media has served as an intricate web for interpersonal connection and community cultivation. This dynamic milieu has birthed the meteoric ascent of social movements, exemplified by the resounding echoes of Black Lives Matter and the Me Too movement. Utilizing social media as their crucible, these movements have masterfully orchestrated protests, illuminated the significance of pressing concerns, and held the influential accountable for their actions.
Notably, social media has ushered politicians into an era of direct and unmediated communication with their constituents. In yesteryears, politicians hinged their messages upon the benevolence of traditional media. However, the emergence of social media has afforded politicians an intimate conduit to their electorate, circumventing conventional media intermediaries and affording them a platform to share their convictions firsthand.
This has ushered in an era of personalized and interactive political discourse, enabling politicians to forge personal connections with voters and solicit feedback on their policy endeavors.
Nonetheless, it is imperative to acknowledge that social media has not remained untarnished in its journey through the political landscape. Principal among the concerns is the rampant dissemination of misinformation and disinformation. Social media platforms have oftentimes served as conduits for the propagation of spurious or deceptive information concerning political candidates and issues, engendering an atmosphere of befuddlement and distrust among the electorate.
Another formidable concern is the proliferation of echo chambers. Social media platforms endow users with the power to curate their own information spheres and social circles, inadvertently fostering environments where individuals are exposed exclusively to viewpoints and opinions that dovetail with their preexisting beliefs. This insularity impedes open and candid discussions about political topics.
In the face of these challenges, social media nonetheless harbors a trove of potential benefits for the arena of political discourse. It remains a catalyst for the amplification of a diverse array of voices, streamlines connections between individuals and communities, and fosters direct communication between politicians and their constituents.
To mitigate the deleterious effects of social media on political discourse, several strategies present themselves:
Firstly, advocating for the cultivation of critical thinking and media literacy skills amongst the populace is paramount. Empowering individuals to be discerning consumers of social media content can inoculate against the virulent spread of misinformation.
Secondly, the accountability of social media platforms themselves must be underscored. Measures such as implementing content fact-checking protocols prior to dissemination or the removal of content found to be fallacious or misleading can serve as a bulwark against the proliferation of falsehoods.
Lastly, fostering a climate that encourages engagement with disparate viewpoints and perspectives is crucial. Actively following individuals on social media who hold differing political convictions or participating in online dialogues with ideological adversaries can help dismantle the barriers of echo chambers and promote genuine political discourse.
In summation, social media stands as a potent instrument capable of molding the landscape of political discourse, both for better and for worse. Awareness of its potential pitfalls and merits is indispensable, and it is incumbent upon society to employ this tool judiciously and responsibly.
The following article is attributed to author and political analyst Mithun Vijay Kumar.
e-commerce
ITC Sunfeast, Zepto host mango-themed experiential ‘Paglu Party’
Event blends Alphonso desserts, DIY sessions and interactive formats
MUMBAI: When mango season peaks, some savour it others go full ‘paglu’. ITC Sunfeast Baked Creations, in collaboration with Zepto, turned summer indulgence into an immersive brand experience with its ‘Mango Paglu Party’, a high-energy, mango-themed event designed to blur the line between dessert and discovery. Built around the brand’s ‘Mad Over Mangoes’ universe, the space leaned into a sensory overload bright, playful and unapologetically mango-drenched. From curated installations to social-first corners, every element was designed to be as shareable as it was experiential.
At the centre of the celebration was the fruit itself, elevated into a menu crafted using fresh, carbide-free Alphonso mangoes sourced by Zepto. The spread ranged from a flaky Mango Pista Kouign Aman to Mango Coconut Serradura Pudding and a Mango Mascarpone Cake, balancing indulgence with seasonal freshness.
But this was not a passive tasting affair. Guests were drawn into the experience through interactive formats, including a DIY dessert session led by the brand’s chef, where attendees created classics like Mango Tres Leches. Zepto chief business officer Chandan Mehndiratta also joined the session, adding a touch of brand personality to the proceedings.
A quirky highlight came in the form of the ‘Aam Paglu Prescription’, a playful, doctor-themed concept that positioned mango indulgence as the only “treatment” worth taking, turning a simple insight into a memorable activation.
The event built up to a theatrical finale, with the crowning of the ‘Aam Paglu of the Day’ followed by the cutting of an oversized mango-shaped Mango Mascarpone Cake, closing the experience on a high note.
More than just a seasonal showcase, the Mango Paglu Party reflects a broader shift in brand storytelling, where products are no longer just consumed, but experienced. For ITC Sunfeast Baked Creations and Zepto, mango season was not just about flavour, it was about creating a moment that audiences could step into, engage with and, quite literally, devour.
