Re: India - Unity between the states...
Originally Posted by
Eastern Mind
Vannakkam: We have had a very simplified version of this here in Canada for 100 years, with Quebec. The French (rightfully) resent the British control, and they are in the minority. If you go to Quebec, it is quite possible, even likely, to encounter a person who knows English but will not speak to you ... French only. We've had 2 or 3 separation referendums, the closest was 49% or so. There was one time when the government had to impose emergency measures, and had the locals been armed, we would have had a civil war.
It hasn't been so bad lately, but there are individuals who still hate. Generally they are the older crowd. My father's generations was horrible. Racial slurs on the French were in abundance where I grew up. So as individuals, it helps to enjoy the diversity, rather than criticize it.
In India, the only time I noticed it was in Rameswaram, when my driver had a difficult time finding a parking spot near the temple as he has KA plates. But I also think Rameswaram is a good model. As a pilgrimage spot, many states have their own hostels, etc. and everyone gets along.
I truly wish there was more celebration of diversity. I do think time will help, if leaders set an example, and individuals see it from a wiser level. That's whats happened here in Canada.
Aum Namasivaya
I've always heard that the French are very committed to their language, such that when you visit France, you must know French or you may have a tough time as people are not as easy to converse in English. I don't know how far this is true, but that's what I have heard.
And, to be committed to one's nation and national language and weigh it superior to others can be deemed patriotic. But, in India, we see that though we all should be united, because given diversity, there is also equal number of factors that are common, but people don't value this common factor but exaggerate the differences alone and look upon other people with hatred. For example, all of India are very family oriented, the joint family system is still valued, the currency is the same, people have same goals - earn for the family, educate the children well, etc, and most importantly, the religion of the majority is the same. Apart from the language, the only main difference I can see is the food. But there is so much intolerance on the basis of just a few differences.
Sometimes I feel that unless Indian people give up their differences and act as one, India cannot become one of the supreme powers ever, though Indians have the capability and intelligence to make India become one!
Thank you for your thoughts. They added value to the conversation.
jai hanuman gyan gun sagar jai kapis tihu lok ujagar
Bookmarks