Can be watched on https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V22ZSt0QrQM&t=7s
What’s in the name!. well, perceptibly the whole world.
We are transitioning from the past to emphasize on living in the renewed
present. There’s a message. Having lived for centuries under colonial rule its
time we assert, recognize, and live our umbilical selves, our culture, our
heritage, our roots. Renaming of roads, educational institutions, monuments,
states and regions and even gardens may help posterity instill pride in themselves
as ‘Bharatiya’ while some turn history pages to trace its glory. Although Mughal
architecture, craftsmanship, music and various forms of art shaped India’s
culture and heritage that still stand tall after hundreds of years and we pride
in them too. Taj Mahal, Red Fort, Humayun’s Tomb, Lodhi gardens, Qutub Minar,
Buland Darwaza etc, etc. Interestingly, many may know that Mughal Gardens, as
opposed to its name, were planned and made by Britishers in 1917….Edward Lutyen
and William Mustoe borrowing the different landscapes from the Mughal Gardens
in Kashmir. Call it a double whammy..two things wiped off with one stroke.
Messenger or consumer, be cautious
On a more recent note… when a BBC Documentary
scratches our wounds that has a particular narrative, we considered a snap
response as the need of the hour. Given the fact that they colonized us like
the rest of the world, the ‘big brother’ nations don’t stop sermonizing and
downsizing others even in contemporary times when we as a nation are equal
players. India has overtaken UK to become the fifth largest economy when
earlier we were ranking eleventh. How we handle our issues is our
problem, was the terse message, as other nations do too. This as far as foreign
indulgence is concerned. Domestically, the issue of freedom of choice of what content
to watch and its limits drawn by the state has seen an increasingly challenging
trend lately. Despite the undeclared ban the documentary found its way in every
digital medium. Media freedom is becoming a two edged sword, one may be on any
side, the messenger or the consumer.
Egypt’s Sisi’s hand shake
This year we celebrated our 74th Republic
Day. Inviting President Sisi of Egypt was not without reason. West Asia is a
strategically important part of the world and in the prevailing global
scenario, is of tremendous significance. India’s presence as a rising nation and
importance has only but increased as we vie with China in the region as a power
to reckon. With the Dragon’s heavy economic presence in this geography we stand
apart for our developmental, humanitarian and sincere hand holding with nations
across the world. Relations with Egypt have been historical. Sisi’s visit
enhanced our relations to ‘Strategic Partnership’…. Significantly focusing Suez canal development
project, cooperation in Defence, Counter terrorism, cyber security, Investments
and trade being major areas, the much needed leverage if we have to counter the Red regime.
Yatra effect
As Rahul Gandhi’s yatra concludes in Srinagar with
hoisting of the tri color, Congress prepares for a ‘Haath Se Haath Jodo’ yatra in continuum. Reports say perception about Rahul Gandhi has changed since
he walked 4000 kms from South to North. Thousands of people walked with him in
cold, rain and heat. The moot question still remains will this yatra effect
remain till 2024 and in any ways help convert in votes. The fact that the grand
old party is pitched against a solid, deep rooted organizational party is what
the challenge is. Despite ‘yatras’ Congress’s Achilles heel is its lack of a
grassroot organizational structure, serious infighting within and in states
they are in power. Country still lacks a
credible opposition. The dynast may be responsible for Modi’s popularity but
equally, some say, Modi’s centralization of power may be the reason for Rahul’s
popularity. The disintegrating society, increasing social polarization, unchecked
hate speeches, women crimes, unemployment, add to it the recent Adani scam report
by Hindenburg, a Western documentary and to some extent Rahul Gandhi’s
renewed image are making the powers that be sit up and think. Brand Modi exclusively
still remains unchallenged.
Everything’s now moving for and towards 2024. We all have
our own perceptions that will go a long way shaping the future of India. So exercise
the rights given by our constitution wisely and don’t forget our duties towards
the nation. Stay aware and informed. There have always been issues we have
grappled with and which have only made us a stronger democracy. The buck
finally stops at the people’s court.
Tags; #AmritUdyan # MughalGardens #Rashtrapatibhawan #EgyptPresidentSisi #RahulGandhi #pritiprakash #Blogger
