Trending: Proud to be Indian

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‘Happy Republic Day’ messages have been replaced by ‘Proud to be Indian’, I note. Over the years, the jingoistic ‘me’ has been keenly observing a positive trend. More recognition of Indian achievers (beyond cricketers), more commitment to making a difference. But sometimes, even the most zealous of us get deflated because of some stuff we see.

Mostly, this stuff is being done by SUV driving punks, saying nonsensical things like ‘my bad, bro’ and pining to be outside the country. This is fine and I pray every day that they get out really really soon. But sometimes, dumb stuff is also being done by the ‘Proud to be Indian’ message senders, which is confounding. So I thought. Maybe they just don’t know. Maybe once they become aware, they will stop. So I propose the ‘GLARE’. Here’s how it works:
  • 1.       Plastic bags: Disposable plastics have been banned in NCR by the Department of Environment. I read the notice – it sounded very legal. But customers keep asking for it in all small shops. Next time you are at your neighbourhood grocery store, make loud noises about NOT wanting plastic as it’s SO Bad and ALL sensible people use cloth. Still if people around ask the shopkeeper for it, GLARE. Mostly the customer will sheepishly run away, with the plastic bag. But some will smile and say ‘ Yes yes ofcourse, which sensible person ever uses one’ and stuff her/his purchase in various pockets.
  • 2.       Littering: There is no fine for littering and other than appealing to our higher senses, there isn’t much legal repercussion. So GLARE. Mostly they will continue chucking their stuff here and there and ignore. But quite a few times they will drop it in the neighbouring dustbin ( which you can point to) or even stuff it into their pockets.
There are multiple situations where the GLARE works. These are my top two for the city. You will have your top two which make you mad. Go GLARE at those who are killing your peace. And their right to be ‘Proud of being Indian’.

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