Voices of the Street

Abstract In an era of technological advancements and user-centric platforms, artistic expressions have emerged as powerful mediums, particularly in regions marked by uncertainty like Kashmir. This study examines the contemporary Kashmiri rap song “Downtown” by a young content creator, analyzing how youth masculinity is performed lyrically and visually. Garnering millions of YouTube views, the song transcends entertainment, serving as a critical tool for negotiating societal narratives and power structures. Through a qualitative approach, the research investigated the portrayal of masculinity and urban space in downtown Srinagar, revealing two key themes: women's marginalization within dissent narratives and the construction of downtown as a masculine space. The song strategically employed humor and cultural references, simultaneously elevating a patriarchal masculine narrative while marginalizing women's perspectives.