So many arguments are coming up on the context of our Prime minister’s “Challenge the Darkness Drive.”
Criticisms and disapprovals are making the round. Some have pointed out that people are battling hunger. Numerous are dying every day. In many places, people don’t have enough fuel to light their brick stoves, let alone light a Diya. Under such circumstances, we are wondering why on earth our dear PM is coming up with such innovative ideas.
A part of the Indian intelligentsia believe that such celebrations are meant for the ‘financially well off fraternity; as they will have access to ‘ghee’ as well as the ‘Diya’, not to mention the ‘matchbox’. A poor is destined to cry, with his naked soul and empty eye. And in ways more than one, these arguments too seem to be valid.
Even I am not very enthusiastic about ‘Challenge the darkness drive’. But there is something I would like to add. During the Junta Curfew, I was feeling anxious, depressed, caged at home owing to the lockdown. I was trying to cope up with this new way of life, keeping myself busy with my household work which is quite unusual, and then this wave of clapping started at 5 pm. The feeling of utter loneliness that had consumed me took a break and I ran towards the window and joined the ‘charade’ as many might say, but what it did to me psychologically was immense. I realized I am not alone in this jinx, I felt that if we come together, the sheer feeling of hopelessness which has settled in can be destroyed. It is true that a disease like COVID 19 will need to be treated, we require a vaccination ASAP. We know that the global medical fraternity is making huge efforts on this part, but it will take time. Until then it is necessary for us to be mentally sane, remind ourselves that we will overcome this and these difficult times too shall pass.
If 1.3 billion people came together to clap their hands, it reminds us of our importance as a specie. Let us not forget birds that flock together, stay together. This realization in itself for many others out there means the Junta curfew was a victory of sorts. A victory to hope over hopelessness.
Every organization has a human resource team who finds ways and tools to keep employees motivated besides hiring bright minds. They conduct workshops, games, potluck parties, hear the grievances, award the best employees, and give timely appraisals. Now when the nation is going through a tough time don’t we deserve a bit of motivation, a tinge of a pep talk, a workshop; a bit of hope to keep our fight against Corona alive. Time to spread positivity, that’s the only way to survive.