Sir,
This has reference to the article “Patriotism in 21st Century” DE June 22. Individuals who truly love India do respect each and every citizen of their country by rising above all narrow divisive credential of race, language, caste and religion; lead an honest life and carry on their respective jobs with utmost sincerity and dedication; work for the cause of the downtrodden and tortured lot by drawing inspiration from the greats like Kailash Satyarthi; care for the environment and protect nature and greenery. In the dictionary of true lovers of the nation; national flags or anthems are secondary items as they are nothing but mere symbols. The real nation lies in the hearts and human rights of common people. Instead of taking prompt “offence” whenever the flag or anthem gets “dishonoured”; they feel infinite times more pain when human rights of innumerable poor people, vulnerable children, women, minorities and refugees (displaced by riots or climate change) get mercilessly trampled under the marauding feet of vested interests. After all those unfortunate brothers and sisters of my land form the real India.
No true Indian will chant rhetorical slogans so as to pass the litmus test of “patriotism” as defined by the communal “nationalist” brigade. Rather their all-embracing work, tolerant thoughts and democratic ideals will talk about their dedication towards India. And I desire to end with Rabindranath Tagore’s assertion “Never allow patriotism to triumph over humanity”. Remember this very person came up with number of swadeshi songs, including ‘Jana Gana Mana…’, reflecting his deep love for the country. But Tagore’s love for the country was not limited to mere flags or zealous chant of ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’; but got extended to respect for values, humanity and an earnest yearning for an environment where the mind is without fear and the head held high.
Yours etc….
Kajal Chatterjee
Peerless Nagar, Kalkata
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