Let My Country Awake

By Mrinalini Ranjan 10 December 2007 108 views No Comment

A new semester; new beginnings. Visions turn into reality as the very first issue of Nazar: A South Asian Perspective appears online. Our aim is to establish the magazine as a medium through which opinions and information regarding politics, sports and entertainment can be shared in a way that is both enjoyable and thought provoking. Through this medium, we hope to inculcate a feeling of empowerment, community and awareness within the South Asian population here at UT.

In the post independence era, we have become increasingly apathetic towards our governments. We have given up hope of true democratic values and efficient leadership, deeming our representatives corrupt, scheming and nepotistic. Are we disillusioned when it comes to political concepts and benefits? Or could we just not care less?

It might just be true that most of us are ignorant when it comes to historical and political facts regarding our nations. Are the ever-secular and liberal Mumbaikars aware that Maharashtra happens to be a seat of tremendous Hindu fundamentalism? Do Delhiites know that their fancy malls built on the ridge are destroying the environment to an extent that it might turn the Indian capital into a desert? Are those who claim to know our independence histories really aware of the facts? Have you ever compared an Indian history textbook to a Pakistani one, and then to a Bangladeshi one? Let’s try and point out the fallacies. We as a South Asian student community, in such close contact with each other, should have such things on our minds. Is it wrong that we don’t? Some believe it will cause even more problems if we dwell on such facts. Maybe if we all just shut up and ignore the whole thing it will go away.

Culturally, being politically active has widely been looked down upon. Politics has been considered a fickle game, and those who engage in it, morally stunted. Stereotyped images of crude old men come to mind. Most of us don’t really care about who is governing us, as long as it doesn’t affect us too much – as long as we still have water, electricity and cable TV and maybe even a decent cricket team.

But the blame doesn’t lie entirely on us. I believe that our generation isn’t wholly illogical. What are we to do when both sides of politics agree on issues such as increased reservation in national universities, as both are equally terrified to lose their ‘poor people’ vote bank? Do politicians really care whether it benefits the nation, the youth, or the oppressed? Any amount of protest does not lead to change.

Such issues are just one of the many we will be dealing with through the medium of Nazar . Our articles will be diverse, pertinent and enjoyable. Ranging from cricket scandals to campus events, we will have it all. As I think about the future, I hope for the fulfillment of Tagore’s prayer: “may our minds be led forward by thee into ever widening thought and action. Into that heaven of freedom my father, let my country awake.”

Photo Courtesy: BabaSteve