Panaji, January 2026: Memes are no longer just internet jokes. In India, they are increasingly functioning as a form of everyday political expression, allowing ordinary citizens—particularly young people—to comment on governance, development, tourism, and identity at a time when traditional spaces for dissent are shrinking.
This was highlighted by Goa-based digital culture researcher and writer Kavita Kabeer during a recent MOG Sundays session at the Museum of Goa (MOG). Kabeer, who runs the digital platform Qabiran, examined how memes in India have evolved into a powerful and accessible communication tool.
Drawing from examples circulating nationally and within smaller states like Goa, Kabeer argued that meme-making has become a way for people to “join the conversation” on issues that directly affect their daily lives. Unlike traditional political cartoons or opinion columns, memes require no institutional backing, editorial approval, or professional training, making participation widely accessible.
“In a small state like Goa, people often know each other both online and offline. That makes digital expression feel more immediate and grounded,” Kabeer observed, noting how creators and audiences frequently overlap in close-knit communities.
The session highlighted how Goan memes often use humour and irony to address everyday concerns such as potholes, environmental degradation, tourism pressures, and governance failures. While seemingly light-hearted, these memes often carry layered meanings rooted in lived experiences, enabling critique without relying on formal or confrontational language.
Language and cultural context, Kabeer stressed, are central to a meme’s effectiveness. Many Goan memes circulate in English, Konkani, and Marathi, drawing on shared regional references. “Some jokes simply don’t work outside their context. Memes rely on local understanding, and that’s what gives them power,” she said.
The discussion also addressed the risks of humour in today’s digital climate. Across India, comedians, creators, and meme-makers increasingly face backlash and surveillance. While humour may sometimes offer temporary cover, Kabeer cautioned against complacency. “You may feel under the radar today, but that can change very quickly,” she warned.
Participants reflected on how memes can do more than mirror public opinion. When a meme is repeatedly remixed and shared, Kabeer explained, it often signals that an issue has struck a collective nerve, transforming private frustration into shared critique.
Kabeer concluded by emphasising that memes should be seen as part of a broader ecosystem of civic engagement, not a replacement for on-ground action. In a state like Goa—where community mobilisation has historically shaped public life—digital expression must work alongside real-world organising and dialogue.
