Feeling Proud and Ashamed: The Duality of Being Indian
Every nation has its share of successes and failures, and for an Indian, the duality of feeling proud and ashamed often intertwines in a complex web. When you triumph against insurmountable odds and emerge victorious, moments of national pride ignite. However, when these victories are overshadowed by setbacks, the chasm of shame becomes palpable. This article explores the highs and lows, reflecting on India's remarkable achievements and disappointing moments.
When India Feels Proud
India's history is replete with moments of triumph that make Indians feel a surreal sense of pride. From the historic 1983 win in the World Cup to the successful launch of the Mangalyaan Mars mission, every victory is a testament to the indomitable spirit of the nation. The Nuclear Test at Pokhran in 1998 stands as a monumental achievement, symbolizing the country's commitment to self-sufficiency and nuclear deterrence. Similarly, victories in wars like the 1971 War of Bangladeshi Independence and the 1999 Kargil Conflict highlight the nation's military prowess, further fueling a sense of pride.
India's visionary leadership has also led to remarkable developments such as the Operation Flood, the Green Revolution, and the establishment of prestigious institutions like the IITs, BITS, AIIMS, and IISC. These achievements showcase the nation's ability to innovate and thrive.
When India Feels Ashamed
Conversely, there are moments when India's failures cast a shadow of shame over the nation. The inability to achieve substantial progress in critical areas such as healthcare, defense, and science often leads to a deep sense of embarrassment. The 2021 COVID-19 vaccine supply crisis and the subsequent embarrassment when aid was sought from other nations underscored this feeling of shame.
The Galwan Crisis in April 2020 brings back a wave of shame, not because of a military defeat, but because of the insurmountable humiliation faced by the nation. Similarly, the diplomatic stance taken during this conflict, which many claim to have been disingenuous, exacerbates these feelings.
Scientific and technological failures, such as the public stand taken during the pandemic, also contribute to a sense of shame. When institutions like the DRDO and IIT Delhi are criticized for their boastful and ineffective approaches, it reflects poorly on the nation as a whole. Examples like Anand Mahindra's Miracle Cures and Invento Mitra further reinforce the idea that India is not keeping up with global standards.
Conclusion
While India has achieved remarkable milestones that bring immense pride, there are also moments that cast a shadow of shame. The collective psyche of the nation oscillates between indomitable pride and unadulterated shame. However, it is essential to acknowledge both sides of this duality for a more comprehensive understanding.
The journey of India is a tapestry woven with threads of national pride and national shame. As the nation continues to evolve, it is vital to learn from past failures to build a stronger, more resilient future. By introspecting and addressing these issues, India can turn the page from ashamed to emphatically proud.