Puppet Shows in Politics

('The great Indian puppet show' in one of the popular news channel has always fascinated the author. He would like to analyze a 'real-time' (unless you argue on what exactly is reality is) puppet shows in our politics. Thanks to some of our leaders, we always had the opportunity to enjoy them, inspite of the lack of patronage to this form of art. To be precise, a satire on indian politics.)

I was rambling around and looking for various museums in Paris, which houses some of the great museums of Art, Science and History. One of such museums is Musee-de-Quai-Branley. Not far from the Champ de Mars and a building near Eiffel Tower, Musee-de-Quai Branley was an attempt by France, to exhibit non-western art and culture, which has never been much of attention amongst the Europe. The endeavor is a wonderful one where the information regarding various cultures of countries, regions were brought under one roof.
What interested me most, ofcourse was the section on India. I was quite curious what would be from India. Indeed it is a well documented and a well narrated display about India: from Kalaripayattu in Kerala, Rangoli in South India, to the great festivals of Kali in Bengal. What was even more fascinating was the replicas of Puppet show and a video on it (called, "Tholubommalaata" from Andhrapradesh). Infact we must get inspired (ofcourse it doesnt mean copying) from them, to establish a similar one in India, only if we get out this (pseudo-) secular paranoia.
Puppet Show is an ancient art, where the artist (or narrator) narrates a story generally from history, myths or folklore to entertain audience of various age groups. To be short, it is a visual art, similar to the present day movies, which had a great patronage previously in India. Ofcourse there are some variants of the Puppet show, which seem to be endemic to places. However, its sad that we are nearly loosing this art form.
In the similar way, the Puppet show in Indian politics has always been an interesting episode. There are undocumented 'puppet shows' in the pre-independence era of the Congress party, where the members tried to serve their narrators from industry. This control from these 'outside' hands seemed to have worried Gandhi who has insisted to make Congress party into a Social organization, called Lok Seva Dal. While some of the leaders like JP, Lohia etc., supported it, the big stalwarts like Nehru and Sardar opposed it. Since, even my father was not born by then, its difficult for me to know the details of these undocumented shows, hence, I would forbid myself to get into that.


Now, considering the vogue prevailing of the present day politicking, there are three genres (or themes) in this 'art'.

1. "Government is for politicians" : The basic plot involves transformation of civil servants who would the cause of their own benefits. Ofcourse, the replacement basically depends on the 'interests' of the political party. For instance, the most popular script in this genre is the replacement of the Collectors, Commissioners, DIGs at State level by their Governments to facilitate 'better governance' and 'co-operation between people's representatives and the bureaucracy'. This has become a birth right of a politician in India, ofcourse the politicians interested in 'real-politik'.

2. "A dormant stamp": This involves electing or nominating a 'Yes man' (or woman :) ) to a post like Governor and President. Ofcourse, in case of presidents, Indira started it, and its continued over the generations quite faithfully, with a couple of glitches here and there.
There was tremendous thought given in the election of the people like Dr.Rajendra Prasad, Dr.Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan etc., But, things changed slowly. Mr.Zail Singh as honorable President of India, has told on record that he would take the broom and sweep the floor if Indira Gandhi asked him to do so. That doesn't stop there. We have seen a series of Presidents because of whom the charm of the post which was once held by stalwarts has marred. After all this, we have our present Hon'ble President Pratibha Patil. When the congress high-command has declared that Pratibha Patil would be nominated for the post, then one question arose in almost of the Congress plenary.."Who is Pratibha?" She finally became the President of India. If Congress wanted a lady president, probably they must of opted for Capt.Lakshmi Sehgal (she was an active member in INA, worked closely with Netaji), who contested against Dr.APJ. Thanks to the poor organization of NDA and UNPA, they led to whole lot of confusion, which would have hurt the most popular president of India, our beloved missile man.
Ofcourse, this doesn't start or end with Congress itself. We have BJP placing their candidates in the Governors seats whenever they get an opportunity. What I am trying to say is, ideally, we must have a rational and non-political candidate (atleast a political leader in the taste of all the parties) and NOT some biased person. We have seen the worst side of this bias in the times of Emergency, Punjab riots and Operation Blue Star. Would we like to see more of them?

3. "Suspense thriller": Latest repertoire of the Congress party, the script is a suspense thriller, about the next Prime minister. Generally, the scene begins with everyone praising Soniaji about her great sacrifice. Then, the high-command of Congress, would be waiting near the gates of 10- Janpath, in the hot sun for an order (did I say order, read it as consensus) on who would take the seat of honour. Ofcourse, there are some comedians who would leave queer dialogues like Rahul must be the next PM, although Rahul might be feeling that he must be on the seat only after his Romanian (or Spanish) Girl Friend permits him.
Finally, there would be a decision which is a surprising twist for all the audience (probably even to the actors), about the nomination. Some one as remote as Mr.M.Satyanarayana Rao (for those who don't know him, he is a faithful follower of Nehru-Gandhi family, and present minister in the Government of AP, for the department of Temples development in Andhra Pradesh), can become the next Prime minister of India. Since all that he needs is just Her 'Kripa'. Ofcourse, this is generally once in five years, but mainly depends on the sheer will of 10-Janpath.

True, this is all fun. But, we are getting entertained at the expense of our taxed money, and our welfare.

Arise and Awake!

(The Vivekananda Illam, which is now threatened to be replaced by the State Government is to the distaste of the large section of youth and admirers of Swami Vivekananda. The author was left flabbergasted to say the least, upon the decision of the present state government, and would like to share his views on the present scenario. This decision, according to the author, not only reflects the capricious way of decision making from our representatives, but also lack of their clarity on what Indian culture is.)

"Vivekananda was a soul of puissance if ever there was one, a very lion among men, but the definitive work he has left behind is quite incommensurate with our impression of his creative might and energy. We perceive his influence still working gigantically, we know not well how, we know not well where, in something that is not yet formed, something leonine, grand, intutive, upheaving that has entered the soul of India and we say, "Behold, Vivekananda still lives in the soul of his Mother and in the souls of her children". " - Sri Aurobindo

“Swami Vivekananda saved Hinduism and saved India. But for him, we would have lost our religion and would not have gained our freedom. We therefore owe everything to Swami Vivekananda.” - Sri Chakravarthi Rajagopalachari


I still remember making a poster for the internal publicity about a visit to Vivekananda Illam, this January. It was a part of the Institutes's celebrations of the National Youth Day, which commemorates the birthday of the National figure, Swami Vivekananda. And now, it is the same place, which is under the 'mercy' of some politicians, who would like to 're-define' Indian culture. For the readers who are not fortunate enough to know about the monument, let me elaborate on it.

It was in the year 1897 when Swami Vivekananda, one of the most influential spiritual leaders of all times delivered seven inspiring and historic lectures in Madras (now Chennai). The venue of his stay during this time was Vivekananda Illam, originally called Ice House. This was rechristened in 1963 as the Vivekananda Illam, as a tribute to Swamiji on the Centenary year of Swami Vivekananda.

This building witnessed some of the spiritual and nationalistic giants like Swami Vivekananda, Sister Nivedita and Swami RamaKrishnananda. One of the most significant and active RamaKrishna Maths, which right now resides in Mylapore, Chennai has taken its birth here, which was started by Swami Ramakrishnanda with the help of Shri.Bilagiri Iyengar, a disciple of Swami Vivekananda.


Some of the key features of Vivekananda Illam are as follows:
*The Vivekananda Illam house has an impressive gallery which displays about 150 rare pictures and photographs of the epoch making Swami Vivekananda – from his days as an itinerant monk (Parivrajaka days) to his conquest of West through his life and works.
*There is a section devoted to the cultural heritage of India from the ancient times till the modern age, a collection of colorful and vibrant
paintings. They portray the Indian history since the Vedic times.
*A section of photographs on the history of the building, which is now called the Vivekananda Illam.
*This historical monument has now become a place of pilgrimage for the devotees of Swami Vivekananda. It was here that Swamiji spent full nine days of his life in February 1897, meditating, praying and meeting visitors.

After a series of changing hands, the Vivekananda Illam was leased to Rama Krishna Math by State Government, in the year 1997. But, the state of the building when it was handed over were deplorable: an old, ruined, dilapidated structure, which was prone to the anti-social elements. By the relentless efforts of Rama Krishna Math and the donations from the people, the building was renovated and was added with all the above features. The Chief of DMK, who now would like to replace Illam, once hailed Rama Krishna Math as the 'Everest of the NGOs'. (Why this tremendous 'change' now?) Today, Vivekananda Illam stands as an important monument for the visitors to Chennai and also to the youth of India and admirers of Swamiji and as a symbol of Indian culture and tradition.

Having said this, let us see what the 'honourable' State Government of Tamil Nadu has to say. They would like to replace the present exhibition of Ramakrishna Math, with a centre for Classical Tamil. I wonder why the TamilNadu Government could think of the very place as the apt place for Tamil Culture. Its both surprising and amazing that the Engineering department of the state has zeroed upon precisely on the Illam in the metropoly of Chennai with an area of 180 square km.

Here is an article by New Indian Express dated:22nd April, 2008, about this issue.

The Dravidian parties in Tamil Nadu has made enough on playing on the histrionics of the people and on the Dravidian claptrap. We had too much of this tirade of regionalism and Dravidian politics. Let us not loose our own life-giving culture because a myopic vision of some of the political gargoyles. I humbly request the readers to contribute for the cause in the best possible way, if they are convinced that what the Government intends to do is harmful for India and its culture. You can sign an online petition by clicking here

Please note that, Tyranny of a Prince in an oligarchy is not so dangerous to the public welfare as the apathy of a citizen in democracy.
I welcome comments and suggestions on what can be done. Please feel free to comment.

From Licence Raj to Subsidy Raj

(The aim of this essay is about the gradual movement of Financial policies of India, from the Nehruvian times, till the recent government of Manmohan Singh. As we would see its a transition from the Fabian socialism to the liberalization, but now finally into the indiscriminate Subsidy Raj, which is supported by all the political parties in India. The author begs the pardon of the readers if he sounds harsh or illogical, but its in his best of intentions to keep things straight and try to take a rationalist view point towards the policies of Government.
This is the first draft of the article and would be improved sooner or later, depending on the availability of the author. He would like to end with a PJ: A blog a day, keeps your BTP at bay.)

It seems to me some of the policy decisions by Indian Government are like organizing rain dance during a drought, although it doesn't serve the purpose, it gives a feeling to the general public that the government is trying to do something seriously. Well, we shall see how Indian Government has been changed from the elaborate system of License Raj to the indiscriminate Subsidy Raj, which exists now.

"I want the corruptions of the Permit/Licence Raj to go. [...] I want the officials appointed to administer laws and policies to be free from pressures of the bosses of the ruling party, and gradually restored back to the standards of fearless honesty which they once maintained. [...] I want real equal opportunities for all and no private monopolies created by the Permit/Licence Raj.". These words are NOT from BJS (now, BJP ), Janata Party or anyother party. It is from the well known statesman, Bharat Ratna, C.Rajagopalachari, way back in 1960s in his newspaper Swarajya. Inspite of being a close associate of Nehru, and a ''conscience keeper of Mahatma", he was strong opposer of Fabian socialism and red-tape. But, it took almost 30 years for Indian Government for realizing the truth in his words. The license Raj is said to have been broken by Narsimha Rao's Government in 1990, due to macroeconomic crisis in India at that times.

The present Finance Minister, Mr.P Chidambaram, expressed his 'worry' over the extensive subsidies by the state and central governments during his short stint at the Office of ministry of Finance during 1996-98. Now, in April 2008, a jubiliant Chidambaram performs the 'impresario' act and comes up with the 'politicially' correct budget. The aim of the budget is to win back the 2009 elections for the Congress party, at the cost of the Government Exchequer. Ofcourse, with regard to the lack of time and space, I would dwell upon the budget subsidies for the two important vote banks of the Congress: the illiterate and the minorities.

The farmers are provided with Rs.60,000 crores, waiving their agri-based loans. The Punjab National bank, one of the leading lender of loans to farmers was left flabbergasted. Well, the central budget has the luxury of running over deficit, while banks cannot. The result: the banks will no more sponsor the funds for farmers, since their money is at risk in doing so. Please note that I am not against any reforms or help towards farmers. I hail from a farmers family, with stakes in the present agricultural sector. But, the farmers who generally hurt due to the loans, is not generally by the nationalized banks, but it is because of the high interest rates of the local money lenders. But, who cares? Afterall the 'rulers' need votes and political mileage, which they can safely derive at the cost of the tax payers. Ofcourse, we look for quick fixes, and assume that we have done 'enough' for the primary sector of Agriculture. The reforms in Agriculture would take another discussion altogether.

Next important votebank is minorities, which Congress is always successful in wooing at. The budget in terms of 'special' funds to the education and employment has increased from Rs.500 Crore in 2007-08 to Rs.1000 Crore this budget year. No questions asked from any political party, as usual.

Apart from this, subsidies rain from the state governments of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and nowadays Karnataka. The most interesting (or notorious) of them is free current, followed by the Rs.2 per Kilo rice. All the three state Governments talk about the above subsidies, interestingly the Tamil Nadu Govt. is always a step ahead. Free Color TVs, free Computers..surprisingly, everything comes virtually free in Tamil Nadu. All of the political parties in the states, both regional and national, not only deny the difficulty in implementing these policies, but also strongly advocate them. How do we do that? Simple, threaten the belt shops by setting high targets, where the same poor buy (rather made to buy) the spirits by paying 66% excise tax on them. Our leaders have understood Napoleon very well, who said the vices are strong patriots of his government, since they pay heavily for the exchequer.

Let me be clear. The aim is not the defame any party or any of the politicians. But, what we have been seeing over the past, and even now, is NOT because of real-politik of political parties, but because of our own sheer callous and irresponsible way of responding to the scenarios. In the words of Daniel Webster, "Nothing will ruin the country if the people themselves will undertake its safety and nothing can save it if they leave that safety to any hands, but their own."

What it means to be pseudo-secular?

(Before getting into the topic, the author expresses his helplessness over the present situation prevailing in his nation where the very utterance of 'religion', makes him a narrow minded fundamentalist. However, the author takes the freedom in the usage of the word and yet he claims that he doesn't belong to any of such group, on contrary to the notion of the general public and the political parties.

A self-proclaimed 'unbiased' (again, I am sure some of the readers might dispute) analysis about the strategy followed by some of the political 'leaders' (its unfortunate to call them so) and parties, who have faithfully taken it forward from their predecessors from Briton. As always, the author would be pleased to end the note with his usual statement: Healthy debates and discussions are always warmly welcome, either on emails/posts or over a coffee :D )

Being a pseudo-secular means a lot. Firstly, let us try to look at what it really means to be pseudo-secular and its implications. Then we shall the 'trade-offs' in being pseudo-secular, and ofcourse, I would end the article with how to be pseudo-secular. (Yes, you have seen it right!). This might become reference manual for all those who would like to get into a career of politics and who think they are 'beyond' any of the morality or ethical framework. So, I would be pleased if they would be obliged to pay me a royalty (atleast an acknowledgment would do!), given that they got benefited through my blog. ;)

To keep things simple, if we peep into an 'unconventional' source, Wikipedia calls Pseudo-secularism as the state of implicit non-secular trends in the face of pledged secularism. The term is used by groups who perceive a double standard exhibited within the established secular governing policy towards culturally different groups. Perhaps the very inclusion of the word 'Secular' in the Indian constitution seems a bit 'pseudo-secular'. It goes back to Mrs.Indira who took the initiative to include the word, 'secular' in Indian Constitution, through 42nd Amendment, 1976. We all would admit that, it was very admirable effort. However, our Congress Government has taken the best efforts to 'forget' defining what it means. Although, the Janata Government tried its hand in the process, the National Party which was in the brief opposition at that time, safely turned their efforts down. Now that we don't have the meaning of Secular in the constitution, anyone can define the way they wish. So, BJP is 'communal' as per Congress (while Muslim League is surprisingly not), and Congress is 'pseudo-secular' according to the Lotus party.

We all agree that Pseudo-secularism means double standards. Double standards about the religion or creed. For the readers who are less fortunate in knowing some deeper information about it, it is not a phenomenon in India alone. I feel that the monarchy of British, are the culprits for the idea inception into India. But let us be rational; enough of that tirade of praising Indian glory before their rule and cursing British for all that we are now. They did for their own benefit, I am sure they would also agree with that. But what is more hurting and embarrassing at the same time is that our leaders, were loyal enough to carry it forward even in the independent India for various reasons, the prime reason being - Vote bank politics (A different name for 'Divide and rule').

Now, being a pseudo-secular as we would see in further arguments, is an art. An art mastered by a few, and a few think its all in their 'blood'. My endeavors would be to develop a universal workbook for the pseudo-secular, I am sure its difficult to be all-inclusive. But it would in the best of my efforts to do so. Yes, its universal, so that it can be applicable in any part of the universe, as long as there are species with different religions or creeds co-existing. Lets list it down point wise, on the basic 'qualifications', if 'you' aim to be a pseudo-secular. Some of the 'role-models' who have excelled in those particular points, is mentioned. Due to my limited knowledge as well as energy, I couldn't mention all their chief proponents. I hope readers would have that kind heart to forgive me for my mistake.

1. One has to be either an atheist or 'very' secular. Preferably, his/her background must belong to the religion/creed, which is bearing the brunt in the end. Also, claim that you know a lot about it, as its your 'own' religion. Then, you would not have reprimands from media or critics that you are attacking another religion. (DMK Chief, Karunanidhi 'safely' questions the qualification of Lord Rama in building the Sethu and qualifies the Ramayana as work of fiction.)

2. Claim that he/she have suffered terribly because of a religion and a creed, and so that its now his/her turn. Forget about the dates. The question is whether your race/religion/creed was suppressed or not. (Antisemitism, anti-Hindu propaganda)

3. Blame the religion and its saints and seers for being narrow minded or fundamentalists. Include their 'misdeeds' (use your own creativity if they aren't enough) in your propaganda media. Be generous in using the school books or books from universities to reflect your ideas. This has been a wonderful strategy of many who are already successful in this pursuit. (In the case of school books in US, CBSE books in India about Hinduism)

There has been instances in US, where the kids (particularly of Jewish or Hindu origin) complained at home of being teased at the school. They are induced a psychological guilt, of holding an identity which is made infamous by the text books.

4. Portray yourself as an intellectual. If you already have an image of 'intellectual', your job is easier. That is because, intellectuals have the 'freedom of speech' and 'freedom of expression'. Ofcourse, I don't deny that everyone is entitled to it. But, as you can see, the intellectuals are 'more' equal. When, pressed by the accused religion or to give an explanation, express that your are not a hater of that particular religion, and there are various view-points towards it, as the history is very 'complex'. (Professor Michael Witzel, Wales Professor of Sanskrit in the Department of Sanskrit and Indian Studies at Harvard University; Romila Thapar, the 'famous' historian for instance).

5. Media is always there to help; Feel free to demand their services whenever necessary.

6. Finally into arts. Again, having a talent in any of the fields of art, music, filmography would help the business greatly. For example paint anything obscene on the culture, just because you see an 'aesthetic' beauty in it. Ofcourse, media is readily there to support your freedom of expression (You-know-who! :D). You can always shoot a film/'documentary' on your version of 'history'. But, don't forget to mention that in the foreword or at the end, so that it would add to your credibility.

7. With all this, you might feel that you are selling your soul. But if you already have the 'Saviour' syndrome, that helps you immensely and makes you feel that everything you do is for their own good. It would be great if you feel you are 'blessed' with more knowledge about God, by the God himself, while most of the others are 'pagans'. But, even after this, if there is any trace of guilt, remember Money and Power buys everything...almost everything that is!

There are many more strategies. As I have mentioned, this is definitely not an exhaustive list. I would add some more when I find some more time. But, I hope I have made the point, and made it quite loud and clear.

Reservations to Nehru Gandhi Family?

(This is the author's second blog, which also happens to be on Politics again. The choice was not all that intentional, but though he believes it magically turned out to be another political analysis. To caution, again the intention was not to aim at a particular person or a group, but just an analysis on the history, (on which he tried to take as neutral stance as possible, atleast to the best of his intentions). Healthy debates and discussions are warmly welcome, either on emails/posts or over a coffee :D )


An interesting line to begin with - 'Till 1947, we were ruled by the aliens. Since 1947 we are ruled by the alienated.' It was from our ex- HRD minister and Ramon Magsaysay Awardee Mr.Arun Shourie. I am sure he must have meant referring to the present politics in general, maynot be referring to any party or 'dynasty'. Probably, he is not that big a 'politician', or rather not that big a 'politician' yet.


As the title says, I would like to reflect on 'Reservations to the Nehru Gandhi family'. Let me be clear, I am not advocating it, but I am trying to analyse what has happened over the past sixty years of the great Indian political drama. Again, I would make some assumptions or see the things from my own frame of reference or the way I understand the history of Indian politics, which may not make everyone happy. But, my intention is not to make everyone happy either.
India had its 'tryst with destiny' of independence way back in 1947. Our prime minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, was truly charismatic to the core, carrying an impressive profile and a clean image. What we understand from the history and his own picture of himself, he was a sensitive, charming, easily influenciable, highly educated man from a well-to-do family, who seem to be influenced by the strong Fabian socialitic ideologies. Although some of the Right conservatives of India, would claim that Mr.Nehru has 'snatched' the opportunity of becoming the first Prime minister from a powerful leader, Sardar Vallabbhai Patel. Perhaps, Vallabbhai Patel's image of pro-hindu, or being strong and stern would have led the people like Gandhiji to opt for Nehru over Sardar. Lets not debate on this.
But, if we agree upon the choice made by the 'most' Congress men of that time, we have Panditji before us, which might not have seemed that bad an option afterall, even to the supporters of Patelji. In the very words of Patelji, Jawaharlal was a 'patriot' and he also says, "after all, he is also a Hindu and that a Kashmiri Hindu", in a letter to his collegue. But then, at the time when we couldnt afford blunders both in the internal policy decisions, and external affairs, Panditji seemed to have tumbled on too many. Panditji had laid foundation for three traits, which Congress party seemed to have stood for the next coming years - 'Ambivalence', 'Dynasty politics', and 'pseudo-secularism'. Let me be clear on what exactly I mean by these words.
Jawaharlal Nehru has stood for many issues for which he seemed to have either lack of clarity or was particularly ambivalent in the issue. Take the Kashmir issue for instance, it was perhaps the only Princely state which Panditji took 'special responsibility' on annexing into Indian Union (as he was a Kashmiri Pandit himself), while Sardar could be termed as 'successful' in doing the job of rest nearly 500 of them. We witness even now, on how well the job is done. Then comes, Panchasheel, on which ofcourse I cannot elaborate now, owing to my limited energy. Probably, another blog at a later time.
Kuldip Nayar outlines the events surrounding Nehru's terminal days and the succession to the prime minister's position. One of his loyalists, Kamaraja Nadar (who is venerated highly as the CM of Tamil Nadu), approached Nehru and asked whether he should install his daughter as the P.M. in succession. Nehru was supposed to have said "not now"(did he meant, 'may be at a later date?'). Ofcourse, Nehru could not degrade himself to ask that his daughter be chosen for the job. However, after the brief period of Lal Bahadur Shastri, we had Mrs.Indira on the PM hotseat. Although my next claim/statement might seem a bit aggressive or a personal remark, but I will go about it. Probably, Nehruji had a different understanding about the 'democracy' itself (Perhaps, to replace 'people' by 'my family' in Lincoln's famous statement on democracy? ).
In the words of Prof.Ramchandra Guha, "Nehru empathized with, but desisted from reforming Muslim code; he preferred to leave it for a later day and to Muslim leadership." On the other hand, after the assassination of the Mahatma, many of the Jan Sangh and RSS leaders like Guruji Golvalkar etc., were kept in jail, without a proper trial. Probably, the very idea of the present situation of 'pseudo-secularism' traces backs it roots to there. From then, like what our senior political analyists call, Pseudo-secularism has become bread and butter for the Congress party like the trade-unionists for the Communists and language jingoists to Shiv Sena.
Having said all this about Panditji, let me stop here. With all my veneration to the Chachaji, I feel that he would have made a good minister (Perhaps, an Educational ministry or HRD ministry), but I am afraid, I will have to admit that he was not the PM material.
After Nehruji, if we close our eyes about the history of next one and half years, for which we had a rare opportunity to see some one from outside Nehru-Gandhi family, we have Mrs.Gandhi as the first woman prime minister. An 'inexperienced yound child' in the words of JayPrakash Narayan, and a 'sugar doll' as per Ram Manohar Lohia, has led India for the next one and half decade (with a brief-break in between ofcourse). Lot of things are attributed to Mrs.Gandhi - Green revolution, Nuclear program of India, 'Garibi Hatao' slogan, and finally the transition of surname from Nehru to Gandhi, which would assure a strong political career for the family. Again, to go into what Indira has done over the nearly 15 years of her political career, might take another different blog altogether, but to be brief, there were brightest and darkest periods to India during the time. Indo-pak war, the independence of Bangladesh has made her image into a dynamic and strong lady, while, the emergency, lack of accountability, improper trails over many people, dictatorial tendencies, etc., implies a lot at her attitude and faith (which is surprisingly different from Nehru) over the word 'Democracy'. In a gist, she can be termed as, Priya Duryodhani, as Shashi Tharoor calls in his 'The great Indian novel'.


After the assassination of Mrs.Gandhi as a consequence to the operation Blue star, we have our Rajiv. Having written something on Rajiv in my previous blog, I am not keen to talk more.
After a silence for another 4-5 years, we have Soniaji, although not a blood relation to the family (ofcourse, in that way Mrs.Indira was also not related to Mahatma Gandhi, however we are just bothered about just the title right?), came into picture as the party president. I am sure Rahul would have succeeded Rajiv, but unfortunately he was kid then, not having the age of even contesting in the elections. So, since we obviously cannot change the constitution for his career, 'they' needed to wait for a while. After many years, of nearly a decade, in the elections of 2004, we have another candidate from the family. Yes, you have seen it right!. I am referring to the string bearer over the honorable present P.M. Manmohan Singhji, Smt.Sonia Maino (read it as Gandhi again). Ofcourse, RaeBareli and Amethi had the rare priveleg of hosting the two Gandhis back to the Parliament, although may not be till the PMO.
Having been in the role of Party president unanimously except once (when there was an election for Congress party president which is on 1999, an opposition from Mr.Jitendra Prasad) for 10 years, Mrs.Sonia is now busy in chalking out plans for the career of the 37 year old Rahul. Lets wait and see whats going to happen next. Afterall, there is charm in unpredicability and I think 'the Family' wouldnt like to break that charm either.
In the words of Rajnath Singh, the present BJP President - two events which have changed the course of the Independent India are, the people's movement led by JayPrakash Narayan, and then RamJanma Bhoomi movement by BJP. Very true! What we have seen was the first shown that the Congress was not invincible even at the National level, while the second shown that the alternative to Congress, can give a stable alternative Government.
After saying all this, it might seem that I was drifting away from the topic. Let me make a comeback. Let us all admit that, politics is a lucrative career. I would like my son/daughter to pursue a career, which gives us (my family I mean) fame and money, which in the case of Ambanis - it is business, Kapoors into movies and for 'the Family', it turns out to be the politics. If we look at them from the career and family perspective, yes, they have tried to make best out of a given situation, career wise. I hold no blame to anyone of them what-so-ever, But, when it comes to everyone outside the Nehru-Gandhi group, we are badly hit, not just in terms of opportunities, but also in terms of quality of administration and life. All the above examples, are just to reflect on what has happened, and how was the decision made by us, was not that good a choice. In the process of admiring a a few people's contribution, we got carried away by the family names, there by providing what Dr.Ambedkar advocated for the unpriveleged.