Devotion / Frenzy

Few thoughts on the Ram Temple inauguration.

The Ram Temple inauguration today has engulfed the minds of Indians for a few weeks now. Even as the saga reached its denouement, I did not feel the need to spell out my stand on this matter. But when I saw this tweet, I felt like writing something.

Was there a need to put these flags everywhere without the consent of the individuals who own these properties? Why should this be a national celebration that forces everyone to clap to this event?

There's a distinction between devotion and frenzy, and you can see it. Those resisting electoral pressures and the force of majority opinion and taunts should be lauded. Lord Ram himself would not have approved of this frenzy around me.

In individuals, insanity is rare; but in groups, parties, nations and epochs, it is the rule. - Friedrich Nietzsche

There are good reasons to argue in favour or against the temple construction. In a country with multiple religions and faiths, I don't think this ugly celebration bodes well for harmony among its citizens. No one should be made to feel small in this country for whatever reason.

Those who are true bhakts of Ram would try not to cause any mental or physical harm to a fellow human. Clearly, one can see hooliganism traits in certain crowds celebrating this temple inauguration.

Obviously, this event is a political tamasha rather than an act of faith. And the rulers might reap the benefits of this inauguration. My current political position still holds. These stories and subscriptions to ideologies are for the sole purpose of acquiring and keeping power. Those favouring the mosque, hospital, or university were also seeking power and not striving to heal any historical wound.

Of course, a broken temple might have caused a wound. But hundreds of dilapidated temples in this country still need attention. Shouldn't they also be causing a similar wound? Apparently, not.

I see hundreds of Instagram influencers performing my favourite song, "Sri Ramachandra Kripalu". But do they understand the damage this ugly display of raw power is causing their fellow citizens? I don't think so. I hope someday we can soothe this wound caused to millions of fellow Indians.

One can only feel that the ugly instincts of millions of people slowly dilute and disappear over some time.