The Broken Nib

Nations have been moulded by the writings of philosophers and thinkers. So, when a government is perceived to be stifling this freedom it must realise that it is not curtailing dissenting voices alone, but destroying a masterpiece-sculpture called a Nation!

The recent uprising by eminent writers and philosophers in the light of the killings of scholars such as Kalburgi and, the barbaric mob-lynching of an innocent muslim based on rumours of a dish on his plate, has driven home a point of freedom in practice. The growing intolerance towards a fellow citizen's rights to an opinion and choices in a way of life reflect a sense of insecurity and, to an extent, immaturity in accepting the pluralistic nature of our society.

If one were to think with a clear head, one would realise that Hinduism, as a way of life, has been subject to various forms of invasions but has been steadfast in its character, evolving  consistently over many millennia. Therefore, the fear of it being diluted seems baseless. On the contrary, the more rigid we become in our perceptions of preservation, the more difficult it becomes to stay in a form of meaningful existence.

The colourful fabric that India is, is because of its highly plural society. If this pluralism were to fade out, or the fabric stretched beyond its inherent elasticity and tensile strength, we would be left with a nation worn out by its own maladies.  

However, I personally feel that by returning the awards bestowed upon them, the writers are undermining the authority and credibility of the very institutions that recognised their great contribution to the country’s literary works. They should, instead, pick up their pens and write, sharing their thoughts that would reach the peoples of this country and help them see reason. The pen is (still) mightier than the sword!