CONSTRUCTION OF WOMEN IN POPULAR PUNJABI MUSIC

Abstract

The depiction of women in popular Punjabi music has undergone tremendous change throughout the years, which is reflective of greater socioeconomic shifts and the ongoing dynamics of culture. The purpose of this research is to investigate the portrayal of women in modern Punjabi music by studying lyrics, music videos, and the reactions of the general audience. Objectification, empowerment, and the contrast between old and contemporary ideals are some of the topics that are investigated. The most important findings suggest that although there are songs that maintain old gender stereotypes by depicting women predominantly in roles of subservience or as objects of male desire, there is a growing trend of songs that praise female freedom, strength, and originality. This dichotomy brings to light a cultural change in which contemporary influences question the patriarchal standards that have been in place for a long time. The research follows a mixed-method approach, which consists of conducting qualitative interviews with industry professionals and customers in addition to doing quantitative content analysis of popular songs. In addition to this, it examines the role that social media plays in the formation and reinforcement of these narratives. In general, the findings of the research highlight the complexity of female representation in Punjabi music, pointing to features that are both progressive and regressive. Within the context of Punjabi society, it is necessary to have a more nuanced knowledge of the ways in which popular culture impacts and reflects gender views.