March already? Didn’t we just wash the New Year glitter out of our hair? Time won’t slow down for us, and neither will the artists we’re highlighting today. Between their viral beats and Netflix’s latest binge-worthy drama series, your weekend entertainment is set.

— Rosh

If “Euphoria” and “Gossip Girl” had an Indian baby, it would be “Class.”

What is it?
Netflix’s new Indian web series “Class” revolves around three underprivileged students who join an exclusive high school for Delhi’s elite. Their time there underscores the privilege and wealth inequality of the city while also highlighting issues of Islamophobia, homophobia, corruption, and caste discrimination.

That isn’t the extent of the show’s controversial subject matter.

Why the comparison?
Like “Euphoria,” “Class” is also blatant with depictions of teenage drug abuse and sex, and similar to “Gossip Girl,” most of the characters are obscenely wealthy and consequence-avoidant high schoolers.

The show is also similar in that its music selection is thoughtfully curated with its young audience in mind. There was hardly an episode where we weren’t tempted to Shazam the tracks, which added dramatic layers to pivotal scenes. The music fit the vibe of the characters and features predominantly younger and underground Indian artists like Rusha & Blizza, Rebel7, 3bhk, and more. This gives the show a sound that is far more fresh compared to other web series with mature content.

Our thoughts?
While the plot can seem far-fetched at moments, it’s also not an inaccurate representation of India’s richest teens’ lifestyles. Perhaps it was this inside look into this elusive world kept viewers hooked enough for the show to debut in Netflix’s “Top 10 Shows” list across ten different countries.

The show has its flaws too. In its attempt to address too many social issues in eight episodes, it doesn’t do any of them justice. “Class” only touches on Farooq’s queerness, Dheeraj’s caste, Saba’s faith, and Neeraj’s poverty rather than actually unpacking any of their identities and experiences beyond the surface.

Featuring an entire cast of newcomers, “Class” could potentially usher in a new era of Indian media that may be more willing to experiment with complex, messy narratives. Overall, we’re in anticipation of a Season 2. Will you be watching?

POPSHIFT HOLI IS IN 7 DAYS!

COME DRESSED —
All white.

COME HUNGRY —

• Drinks (while supplies last)

  • Junglee 

  • Rupee Beer

  • BollyGood

  • Chai + Parle-G

• Unlimited Masala Popcorn by Confusion Snacks

• Cotton Candy Bar

• Paratta Food Truck (for purchase only)

COME EXCITED —
TikTok sensation AJ WAVY, known for creating the most viral desi sounds for TikToks + IG Reels, will be performing for the first time in the US! Catch him alongside our lineup of other amazing artists at POPSHIFT HOLI.

WatchList: R&B Artist From London, Kamal

Just like the sad anthems of artists like Lauv and Billie Eilish, the lush sounds of Kamal will live in your head rent-free.

Melancholic and atmospheric, Kamal's music is the perfect soundtrack to late-night drives and bedroom cries. Born to Caribbean-British parents, his R&B-esque sounds have resonated with over 900k listeners on Spotify. It’s unsurprising given the depth of his music. Whether he’s exploring the loneliness of being a “homebody” or flexing his lyrical acrobatics on “free flow,” Kamal’s songs express the complexity of human emotions.

His mixtape drops on March 17, with two singles, "essential" and "free flow," already released.

Kamal is very likely your new favorite bedroom-pop musician. Listen to him here.

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Other Notable News

• Raja Kumari and John Legend will tour India, performing their track "Keep Walking.”

• Supreme Sidhu released a new track “Chunni.”

• Abi Sampa and Rushil of the Orchestral Qawwali Project released their live recording of “Wohi Khuda Hai.”

• Kunal Merchant’s two-hour Indo Warehouse: Year 1 set is here.

• HYDR released a new track “Heartsick.”

• Shef’s Kiss released a new track “Have Mercy.”

Written by Saumya Monga and Roshni Rekha
Edited by Roshni Rekha