‘Go Pradhan Go’ Chants Echo at Jantar Mantar as Protesters Bang Thalis and Chammach | Video

New Delhi: Protesters gathered at Jantar Mantar on Friday, raising slogans of “Go Pradhan Go” and beating thalis and chammach in a demonstration that drew attention both on the ground and across social media platforms.

Videos from the protest showed participants chanting slogans in unison while using steel plates and spoons to create a loud, rhythmic sound. The demonstration appeared aimed at expressing dissatisfaction with local leadership and highlighting a range of grievances raised by the protesters.

Jantar Mantar, long regarded as one of the capital’s most prominent sites for public demonstrations, has frequently served as a venue for citizens, activists and organizations seeking to bring attention to political, social and civic issues. Friday’s protest added to the list of demonstrations that have taken place at the iconic location over the years.

The slogan “Go Pradhan Go” appeared to be directed at a village or local governing head, commonly referred to as a pradhan in many parts of India. Protesters alleged shortcomings in governance and demanded action on issues affecting their community. However, the specific demands varied among participants, according to accounts emerging from the gathering.

The use of thalis and chammach as tools of protest has become a familiar form of symbolic expression in India. Demonstrators often employ everyday household items to amplify their message, attract public attention and visually convey their dissatisfaction.

Footage from the venue showed groups of men and women assembled with placards and banners while chanting slogans. The videos gained traction online, with social media users sharing clips and debating the issues raised by the protesters.

Authorities maintained security arrangements in and around the protest site to ensure that the demonstration remained peaceful. There were no immediate reports of major disruptions or clashes during the gathering.

Political observers note that Jantar Mantar continues to play a significant role in India's democratic landscape by providing a platform for public expression and peaceful assembly. Demonstrations ranging from local civic concerns to national policy issues regularly find a voice at the venue.

The latest protest reflects ongoing grassroots activism and the willingness of citizens to use creative forms of demonstration to draw attention to their concerns. Whether the protest leads to a formal response from the authorities concerned remains to be seen.

As videos from the event continue to circulate online, the slogans and symbolic utensil-banging have once again highlighted how public protests can quickly gain visibility in the age of social media, extending their reach far beyond the streets of the national capital.