Raju G. Mendez
Stepping down from his ministerial position in the Kerala cabinet, K. Radhakrishnan declared and mandated by a Govt. order the abolishment of “surname” “colony” where downtrodden individuals lived more happily than the so-called elite who struggled in “Nagars”. The joy they experienced in their residential areas, previously labeled as colonies, was unfairly stigmatized to establish hegemony over them.
Civilization and sophistication are terms often associated with materialistic human development. However, emancipation seems to hold little appeal for those who claim to be educated or part of the literate class. This self-proclaimed status overlooks the vast gap between knowledge and wisdom. Despite being taught for centuries in classrooms, George Bernard Shaw’s essay remains unfathomable to students who conveniently ignore it, influenced by societal stigma and parental upbringing that uphold conventional cultural norms to maintain imaginary superiority over castes deemed inferior.
One of the most absurd outcomes is the emigration of this generation, who ‘quits India’ due predominantly to discrimination based on caste and religion, exacerbated by disparities in constitutional employment reservations, leading to segregation among those seeking greener pastures abroad. Ironically, while welcomed by Western countries for their vested interests, where many Indian youths migrate as students or laborers, they often face severe racism, realizing the debased treatment they endure is akin to retribution for their actions.
Even today in India, there persists a keen interest in tracing the lineage of successful individuals based on caste, religion, color, and creed, rather than their personal stories. Until we abandon this socially malignant caste-centric viewpoint, our achievements on the global stage will remain obscure.
If one reads between the lines of these phenomena, the prevailing truth dominating humanity is the instinctive desire for dominance over those perceived as inferior due to material deprivation, viewed through the contaminated and ignorant minds of those who inherit wealth—be it in terms of land or intellectual property through education or opportunities bestowed by chance rather than personal effort.
In the words of William Wordsworth, “Unless above oneself, one cannot erect oneself. What a poor thing man is.” The only force capable of surpassing all domains is self-respect and mutual respect. Live and let live!
In essence, it is high time we acknowledge the fundamental truth of treating others as equally worthy, deserving of dignity and freedom to thrive, without looking down upon anyone based on their birth in poverty or the challenging conditions in which they live. Perhaps, those in seemingly humble circumstances might find greater happiness than those residing unhappily in mansions seeking recognition.
Above all, the innate talents and capabilities bestowed upon those in colonies integrate work with play. Benjamin Franklin, a renowned figure who contributed significantly, wore simple clothes as a teenager and was born in such a typical colony. His journey from poverty to becoming a wealthy printer who published the ‘Pennsylvania Gazette in 1732 is a colonial success story. A man of talent, he spent the latter part of his life as a scientist, inventor, political leader, diplomat, and national postmaster after retiring at 42.
In conclusion, the lesson we must glean from the histories of individuals who garnered trust and built success stories is to “never underestimate anyone” based on their birthplace or superficial appearances.
Kudos to former minister K. Radhakrishnan for his historic initiative, fostering colonial success among people of potential and caliber, and opening the gates of unity to liberate them from the shell of inferiority imposed by social stigma.
