Of Nationalism and being Nationalistic

The concept of nationalism is a haunting topic for both governments as well as citizens of every country on earth. For obvious reasons, the views are as diverse and extreme as they come – sometimes leading to xenophobia.  

Very often, nationalism is freely equated with the leading religion of the region or community involved. Many in power intentionally and surreptitiously encourage this merger for their group’s benefit. In the recent past we have witnessed political leaders across the world, either through commission or omission, indulge in such behavior that is leading to mass shootings, hate crimes and lynching mobs. Every accused group or instigator believes they are acting in the best interest of their community, society, religious belief and the country in general.  

The key word here is ‘belief’. Where does this belief come from. A cursory glance at history of anywhere indicates that such beliefs are a manifestation of an interested few who in order to preserve their power and position in the hierarchy of things, propagate their own narrative of how things should be. The masses of people who execute this version of nationalism is rarely well read, informed or with a higher perspective. They trust the powers to be and therefore believe every word said or unsaid. They are given to understand that their deliverance from all their problems in life lies in executing whatever has been said or unsaid by their leaders.  

The leadership amplify this as the ‘people’s will’ and continue their play with people’s mind.  

One example of achieving this mind bending exercise in the long term, is through the process of formal education. Successive governments of different political hues try to rewrite and insert their own version of history through NCERT. Life of most text books can now be measured by the tenure of the current government.  

I would like to believe that I am as nationalistic as they come. But I have a different opinion. Individuals can contribute by trying to be as law compliant as is possible - be it traffic rules or tax rules. I am not saying that I like all the rules, but as long as they are in place, I believe they need to be followed. I also believe that there are many facets of life for which there are no statues in existence but need to be practiced for the greater good of society. In my personal as well as professional life, I try to be as inclusive as possible and practice sustainability at every option. Be as much concerned about others’ needs as I am of my own needs.That, I believe, is one of the ways we build a strong country. 

Nationalism to me is not only about participating in protest marches and candle light vigils, though sometimes that is necessary. Thankfully such issues are few and far between. It is more about how we live our lives everyday. How we ‘behave’. How we act. What we do that should be done and don’t do what is not to be done. I believe every citizen can and should embrace the concept of nationalism. My only fear is that each one has their own view of what nationalism is. And that is where the danger lies.