We want to move beyond elections, face of India's 'cockroach' movement tells BBC
Abhijeet Dipke, a 30-year-old activist, has gained significant popularity in India after launching the 'Cockroach' movement. The movement began as a satirical response to a comment by India's Chief Justice regarding jobless youth and has since evolved into a broader political platform.
Why it matters
It illustrates the power of social media in mobilizing youth-led political movements and challenging established political narratives in India.
Figure caption, The BBC's Yogita Limaye speaks to Abhijeet Dipke as he visits a school in rural India
International correspondent Published 3 minutes ago In just under three months, 30-year-old Abhijeet Dipke - the founder and face of India's Gen Z "cockroach" protests - has acquired the kind of celebrity status normally reserved for a breakout actor or cricketer.
In politics or activism, unless you come from an influential family, such recognition can take years - if it comes at all.
"It's been a rollercoaster ride. Two-three months ago, nobody knew me. I was just in my room in Boston watching documentaries or attending lectures," said Dipke, who recently completed a master's in public relations at Boston University.
"Now I'm here surrounded by hundreds of people, by cameras. It's a bit overwhelming."
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