MTV Hustle 03 REPRESENT contestants rap against gender-based violence on International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women

On International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, MTV Hustle 03 REPRESENT participants are fully prepared to make a strong statement with their powerful words and music. MTV Hustle 03 REPRESENT has evolved into a space for young artistes to amplify their voices for a spectrum of societal issues. The Hustle stage has always been known for its explosive rap performances. In the upcoming episodes, the contestants are determined to drive awareness, provoke thought, and inspire action against taboos weakening us. MTV Hustle 03 REPRESENT proves the capacity of hip-hop, where the contestants’ performances usually have a ripple effect. These powerful performances are a testament to how their words went way beyond beats.
 

Mrunal Shankar, a powerhouse woman rapper from Pune, says, "As a woman, I feel it's essential for fellow women to recognise what is happening or has happened, is wrong and counts as a blatant form of violence against them. Unfortunately, many women and girls don’t even realise that it’s wrong, thanks to us all living in a patriarchal society. If change has to happen, it can only happen when people will come forward, express their feelings and take charge. No empowerment can happen in silence. I'm grateful that we have found our voice in rap and music and are able to express what we go through on a daily basis through platforms like MTV Hustle 03 REPRESENT.”

Rap ID delivered a powerful performance on this crucial day and his piece was named Devi. He states, "In my song Devi, I delve into the necessity of dismantling mindsets confined within four walls. It's not just about stopping violence within homes, it's about breaking the cycle by reshaping perspectives. Through my music, I want to bring attention to ongoing societal issues like this that are silenced, especially when it comes to societal expectations on women. If we see violence and do nothing about it, we’re part of the problem too. MTV Hustle 03 REPRESENT has given us a platform to have important conversations, and I'm proud to use my art to question these norms and inspire positive change."