Ashwani Kumar: Can We Allow Porn Actors, Obscene Content, and Filthy Podcasts to Define Our Culture?

In the name of freedom of expression, the moral compass of our society is tilting dangerously. We are gradually normalizing obscenity, vulgarity, and cheap popularity as “art” or “entertainment.” Whether it is adult-film actors being cast in mainstream cinema, podcasters using filthy language to gain traction, or social-media platforms flooded with vulgar content, the question we must ask is simple: Where do we draw the line?

The Normalization of Pornography in Mainstream Media

Cinema has always been a reflection of society, a mirror that not only depicts but also shapes values. The growing inclusion of porn actors and adult entertainers in mainstream films is a disturbing trend. Can we allow such normalization of an industry built on the commodification of the human body to become the face of our nation’s creative expression?

India, with its rich legacy of art, ethics, and spirituality, has never shied away from sensuality, but it has always placed it within the frame of dignity and respect. Our films once inspired generations to dream, to love, to live with purpose. Now, we see a growing shift toward vulgarity disguised as boldness, and lust marketed as liberation. When we start celebrating those who have made a living by crossing moral and ethical boundaries, we are silently endorsing a culture where selling dignity becomes an acceptable career path.

We should boycott any director, producer, or filmmaker who glorifies such individuals. Not out of hate or prejudice, but out of a deep respect for the millions of hardworking artists, students, and dreamers who believe that talent, not obscenity, should open the doors to opportunity.

If we do not take a moral stand today, what message are we giving to our daughters and sons, that it is acceptable to compromise one’s dignity for fame? That vulgarity sells better than virtue? The India we want to build must not be one where morality is mocked and cheap fame is glorified.

Podcasts or Public Vulgarity? The Decline of Journalism

Equally concerning is the rise of a new breed of “podcasters” and “content creators” who use obscene language, sexual jokes, and cheap humor to attract followers. Many of them have achieved nothing substantial in life, yet they position themselves as cultural influencers. Their interviews often lack research, respect, or relevance. They invite celebrities only to create viral sound bites filled with profanity and cheap thrills.

Journalism once stood as the fourth pillar of democracy. News anchors and interviewers were respected for their intellect, depth of knowledge, and balanced perspectives. They represented the voice of reason in a noisy world. When stalwarts like Subhankar or Arnab debated an issue, you might have disagreed, but you respected their understanding and commitment to truth.

Today, however, the art of interviewing achievers has been replaced by gossip sessions filled with slang, alcohol, and shock value. It is time we, as a society, restore respect to journalism and stop giving credibility to those who have none. The microphone is not a toy, it is a responsibility. A podcast or show that corrupts young minds with vulgarity under the guise of “relatability” is not progressive, it is regressive.

Social Media: The Soft-Porn Platforms

Facebook and Instagram platforms once designed to connect families, share achievements, and celebrate creativity have become soft-porn platforms. Each scroll now brings visuals of actresses and influencers dressed vulgarly, dancing provocatively, or performing obscene acts that leave little to the imagination. The algorithm rewards shock, not substance.

Why are we being exposed to such content without our consent? Why do platforms not give users the right to decide what they do not want to see? These platforms claim to protect community standards, yet their standards are collapsing. A young girl logging in to share her art or a boy joining to connect with friends is instead bombarded with adult-themed reels, language, and lifestyles that distort reality.

We cannot call this “freedom.” This is moral pollution. If someone wishes to view adult content, they can visit sites meant for that purpose, privately and by choice. But when these platforms start inserting obscenity into every feed, it becomes an assault on public morality.

During a U.S. Congressional hearing, the Facebook CEO was asked a direct question: Who did you fire when underage children were exposed to adult and vulgar content on your platform? His answer was- No one. That silence is telling. The profit from engagement is more important than the protection of values.

Are we, as Indians, willing to stay silent as our social and moral fabric decays? Or will we stand up and say: enough is enough?

The Erosion of Moral and Social Values

The speed at which our society is losing its moral core is alarming. We have mistaken vulgarity for confidence, obscenity for empowerment, and mockery for humor. When entertainment becomes more about exposure than expression, we lose not only our art but also our identity.

India has taken centuries to evolve a culture rooted in modesty, respect, and ethics. Our saints, reformers, and leaders emphasized character over charm, humility over hype. Yet today, our youth are being exposed to a digital ecosystem that celebrates the exact opposite. What was once considered shameful is now paraded as “bold.” What was once private is now proudly posted online.

This shift does not make us modern; it makes us hollow. True development is not just GDP growth, it is growth in values, conscience, and compassion. If countries have “developed” by promoting sex tourism, let them. India could have taken that path long ago, but we chose differently because we value dignity over dollars.

And let us be very clear all those countries that boast of “sex tourism” are prospering only because of those nations that still uphold morality. Their entire model of profit depends on people from relatively conservative societies visiting them for indulgence. If every nation on earth began following the same immoral path, these so-called “sex tourism destinations” would collapse overnight. Their prosperity is not built on ethics or innovation, but on the exploitation of human weakness and the degradation of dignity. They earn by compromising morality and their clientele comes from societies like ours that still, despite pressures, value family, restraint, and virtue. That, in itself, exposes the hollowness of their “progress.”

Time for Digital Accountability

The government, parents, educators, and citizens must together demand accountability from digital platforms. Social-media companies must be held legally and morally responsible for the kind of content they promote. There should be stricter algorithms and filters for adult or obscene material. Every user should have the right to filter out vulgarity from their feed, just as we can block spam calls or messages.

At the same time, we need to recognize and reward positive creativity. Encourage digital creators who make educational, motivational, or skill-based content. Celebrate those who use their platforms to teach, inspire, or innovate. Let us create a digital ecosystem where hard work, intelligence, and integrity are appreciated, not just skin show and scandal.

We must also build awareness campaigns in schools and colleges to sensitize youth about the hidden psychological effects of consuming obscene or explicit content. What we consume shapes who we become. The goal should be to raise a generation that values intellect over influence, empathy over exhibition.

Conclusion: Development with Dignity

India’s journey toward becoming a developed nation cannot come at the cost of losing its soul. We can build roads, data centers, and AI models but if we lose moral direction, all progress is hollow. Our nation’s strength lies not in vulgar display but in the quiet dignity of its people.

Let us, therefore, take a collective stand:

​•​Say no to porn actors being glorified in mainstream cinema.

​•​Say no to podcasters who spread filth and call it freedom.

​•​Say no to obscene content pushed by social-media algorithms.

•And say yes to creative, educational, and inspiring digital expression.

A civilization as rich as ours should never need to imitate the decadence of others. Let the world know, India will become developed, but not by selling its soul. We will rise with dignity, intelligence, and values intact.