Last evening, I returned from a week long holiday that was spent without mobile, internet and television. The moment I logged in to internet and checked the newspapers, I could comprehend what a dramatic week it has been, on socio political front for India, courtesy, Mr.Anna Hazare, advocating "The Lok Pal Bill".
The avalanche of invitations to join and support the cause of fighting corruption through joining groups, participate in group discussions, public meetings and lighting candles ( for God's sake, can we learn to be less filmy at least in our protests?) on social networking sites, was quite overwhelming. For a moment, I felt as if I missed out witnessing a historic moment of a major revolt Nation was so enthusiastically regaling!
The status messages, links, videos about Anna Hazare's hunger strike were not merely voices of silent desperation that found cathartic release. There was more to it. Suddenly, everyone was talking about denouncing corruption that has for many decades become part of our DNA ( it hurts to admit it, isn't it?). It is amazing how entire country seems to have united once again, that too, soon after the heart throbbing world cup cricket match.
What caused this kind of public support and euphoria? When I read comments on this issue from an interesting mix of people from diverse backgrounds, I realized what really clicked and connected the whole nation. Interesting and very compelling rational support the "fight against corruption" and our conscious instantly buys this idea so that we don't hold ourselves responsible for this deep rooted grime.
Let's look within. How many of us are not corrupt? Let's check our mindsets, our attitudes, our value system. We write status messages on social networking sites, tweet, write articles on blogs, blaming the politicians, system and the government and think our job is done. How convenient!
For any democracy, it is very important to have more voices out in open to question with erudite judgment as to what is wrong in the system and help create awareness. I have no moral right to comment on Mr. Hazare's objective in this entire episode. He has impressive track record when it comes to social contribution. However, I must admit, his strategic non violent manner and its timings are fascinating. No wonder, some people went over board and declared him the next Gandhi! (Are we REALLY so naive?!).
What India witnessed during last week was the glimpse of immense possibilities present in unity of its people. India has great legislation. All we need is judicious implementation. It is very fulfilling experience to see people of nation participating as one team. My only concern is that this "movement" against the bane of corruption prevailing in our society, does not die premature death. Am I sounding cynical?
I had read somewhere, "people get the government they deserve". If we are truly against corruption, let our actions convey it. No need to light candles. No need to criticize or blame anyone. Let's just do our bit. For a change, let's take that first step towards the "change" that we all are keen to see. Shall we?
The avalanche of invitations to join and support the cause of fighting corruption through joining groups, participate in group discussions, public meetings and lighting candles ( for God's sake, can we learn to be less filmy at least in our protests?) on social networking sites, was quite overwhelming. For a moment, I felt as if I missed out witnessing a historic moment of a major revolt Nation was so enthusiastically regaling!
The status messages, links, videos about Anna Hazare's hunger strike were not merely voices of silent desperation that found cathartic release. There was more to it. Suddenly, everyone was talking about denouncing corruption that has for many decades become part of our DNA ( it hurts to admit it, isn't it?). It is amazing how entire country seems to have united once again, that too, soon after the heart throbbing world cup cricket match.
What caused this kind of public support and euphoria? When I read comments on this issue from an interesting mix of people from diverse backgrounds, I realized what really clicked and connected the whole nation. Interesting and very compelling rational support the "fight against corruption" and our conscious instantly buys this idea so that we don't hold ourselves responsible for this deep rooted grime.
Let's look within. How many of us are not corrupt? Let's check our mindsets, our attitudes, our value system. We write status messages on social networking sites, tweet, write articles on blogs, blaming the politicians, system and the government and think our job is done. How convenient!
For any democracy, it is very important to have more voices out in open to question with erudite judgment as to what is wrong in the system and help create awareness. I have no moral right to comment on Mr. Hazare's objective in this entire episode. He has impressive track record when it comes to social contribution. However, I must admit, his strategic non violent manner and its timings are fascinating. No wonder, some people went over board and declared him the next Gandhi! (Are we REALLY so naive?!).
What India witnessed during last week was the glimpse of immense possibilities present in unity of its people. India has great legislation. All we need is judicious implementation. It is very fulfilling experience to see people of nation participating as one team. My only concern is that this "movement" against the bane of corruption prevailing in our society, does not die premature death. Am I sounding cynical?
I had read somewhere, "people get the government they deserve". If we are truly against corruption, let our actions convey it. No need to light candles. No need to criticize or blame anyone. Let's just do our bit. For a change, let's take that first step towards the "change" that we all are keen to see. Shall we?
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