New India, Viksit Bharat, and Mission 2047 are some of the famous terms in this election. The present government has committed itself to making India a developed nation till 2047. Being high at all major indexes of the world is undoubtedly a matter of pride. What should India look like? How will this developed India differ according to individuals? How are we going to make this place a better place to live? This blog shall deal with the fundamentals of Viksit Bharat. 

The dream 

Indian society is made up of composite cultures. A variety of castes, classes, genders, and languages do exist here. Thus, it must be a sure fact that the idea of ‘Viksit Bharat’ will not be the same for everyone. It will have a variety of interpretations. When this government first promised ‘ acche din’ it was a slogan to bind these dreams together.

However, this fact later became apparent that the meaning of ‘ acche din’ will be different for all individuals. The dream here was to make an economy that has a major contribution to world GDP. We had a dream to make an equitable society where the disparity of income distribution can be removed. The dream was to make farming a profitable business in this country. A well-developed nourishing education, availability of quality health, a good connectivity and infrastructure.  

The dream was to have development from the village level for a rise of power from grass root level. The digitalization of the country and the efficient use of AI are matters of discussion now. Every Individual has different meanings for development. Where a wealthy and satisfied life are the things which are common for all. How far have we moved ahead towards these goals? Insofar psychology and mental health are respected in this vision? How satisfied are those nations who have attained these goals? We need a brief scrutiny here. 

Mental health: How viable to dream 

However, the missing component here in this dream is the care for meant health of individuals. 8.3 % of the total US population has symptoms of depression. The USA is known for its influence, power and wealth.

Till the individualistic society, there is unable to deal with their minds. 46 million people (about twice the population of New York), a report suggests, are suffering from depression. It means one out of every seven people is a patient with mental illness. This is rapidly inflating, especially after the COVID-19 burst.  

However, while speaking about the development of the nation, we barely accept that the mind also has its health like any other part of the body. Finland has a total GDP of 28,289.63 crores in 2022 and per capita is 50 916.28 US dollars in 2022. India has a total GDP of 3.42 lakh crores US dollars and per capita is 2410.89 US dollars.

However, Finland is the happiest country in the world happiness index. The low crime levels, free education and health care are some of the aspects that make it a happy country. We are not comparing both countries here as the population also differs thus comparison is not statistically correct. However, the thing that is apparent here is that there is a low correlation between the overall economy and the happiness of the country.  

The need

Mahatma Gandhi once said, “Earth has enough for everyone’s need but not for anyone’s greed” and this makes us think about what should be the priority of this nation. Economic growth is undoubtedly important in its way however we will not succeed until we make this development holistic. Until we don’t include mental health as an important aspect of policy formation, we will make this country a bunch of wealthy and depressed people. It is high time that we brought mental health into the limelight. The entire productivity of individuals too depends on the level of mental health one holds. 

A dream of a happy country 

Thus, we can say that what we need is a happy country. We are required to normalize mental illness same as physical illness if we want a nation free of crime. Criminals are not born but brought up to commit a crime. If we succeed in having a healthy environment even for the poorest person in the nation, we can reduce the crime rate. Law and punishment are not at all any remedy to reduce crime. It is just a sword to maintain social balance. Crime requires psychological solutions. 

To see a happy nation is the foremost goal that we must dream of. Collectivistic culture is a boon for us that can be used to reform society. It is high time that we employ psychologists wherever they are required. This corporate culture also needs reforms in its working conditions.  

Thus, in a nutshell, I see developed nations as more sympathetic nations. A nation that is happy and mentally healthy. A society that knows its limits has novel energy to work. Where youth need not protest for their jobs. Where students need not go to court to get justice in their examination. A place where the role of psychologists is respected. 2047 is a dream of a nation where we possess equal responsibility.  

References

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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/one-in-every-seven-people-suffers-from-mental-disorder-finds-study/articleshow/72946044.cms

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Sher or Shayari has a very rich cultural history in India. It is one of the important and famous ways to express emotion in Urdu and Hindi literature. Where your emotions get expressed in versatile words or Urdu language that gives the essence to your emotion. Thus in Urdu and Hindi literature sher-o-Shayari has a very significant role to play.  

Ranging from Shayar  Mirza Ghalib to Iqbal, we can witness the grandeur of Sher in India. There are many, who have made their careers through sher-o-shayri in entertainment and educational industry. Thus the significance of this talent has a vital role to play in today’s Indian social context 

Sher o Shayari is a concept that is unique to India. Although it is apparent in many other South Asian countries, the grandeur of its development in India has its own story. 

Delhi University is one of the reputed universities in this country. So why keep our students apart from such a talent which is getting diminished day by day? 

Why sharyi is a talent? 

Everyone has human emotions but not everyone can express them. It is the method of expression that any person connected with literature in any way gains fame in this industry. Shary incorporates choosing the appropriate words in a rhythm and tuning that provides the essence of the feeling that one wants. Thus if a person is a good shyer then a person is a good persuader as it involves the linguistic skills required.  

The fact that persons who have an upper edge in language always have an extra advantage in the field in which they are working. Along with what we want to say, the way we say it affects a lot. Proposals through Shayri, shayri involves feelings of respect, love, hate, etc. are not very novel concepts. Thus the domain that Sharyi is holding has its significance. 

Thus a person who has very good linguistic skills in the field of Shayri is unique from person to person. Uniqueness is the thing that provides this skill fame of talent 

For instance  

In English we say “ Out of all people, you misunderstood me” but in sharing, you will refer to it in a way, “ Use meri beat ab samjh me nahi aati, jo meri khamoshiyon ki tafseer likha karta tha” 

Also in English, we say, “It’s overthinking” but in Shayri, you will say, “Wo bate kha gayi mujhko jinko pee gaya tha me” 

Why not have sher-o-shayari societies in DU? 

College societies play a very vital role in the holistic development of students. Thus to have a good linguistic development, to have cultural pride, and to enjoy memories, why can’t we start societies is Delhi University that will solely deal with sher—o – shayri? How is the idea to hold inter-college competitions to organize Sher-o-Shayari at Delhi University that will help all literature enthusiasts to participate in such competitions? 

Unfortunately, this culture is missing in campuses which led to a waste of linguistic talent from campuses. Thus there is a need that we must move forward to establish such a society in nearly every college at Delhi University that will help to holistic development of students. We must not forget the fact that our ex-prime minister dr. Manmohan Singh was also a good fan of Shayri and his answers in the form of Shayari in parliament are still trending on Instagram. 

How will it add value to students? 

1. It will help students to appreciate their culture through this. It will help in the development of national pride. 
2. This will upskill the linguistic ability of students to put their emotions in an interesting way 
3. It tends to  foster creativity among students to innovate new ideas and learn new words to put things forward 
4. It will help studnets to learn teamwork and community building. It will help students to apply this knowledge in their practical life 
5. It tends to help students learn emotional intelligence and remove the fear of public speaking from their hearts through the culture of appreciation in sher –o-shayri( irshad) 

Thus in a nutshell, we must say that this culture of sher- o-shayri must be developed at Delhi University. This will provide a good stress relief time for students from their hectic schedule of the whole day. This can only be possible through cumulative action of all of us. The essence of sharyri is well known among the civilized community of writers. For instance, one Shayr expresses the need for affiliation in his words, “ Koi puch le humse ki kis baat ka gam hai toh kis baat ka gam hai ki wo puch le humse” Thus gys its time for new initiative. Please ask your teachers and authorities to initiate this idea. I assure you that it will be a really good experience. 

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Indian traditional attire displays the country’s rich cultural heritage, diversity, and centuries of workmanship. Each garment reflects the region’s distinct customs, traditions, and history, passed down through generations. The saree, for example, is more than just a piece of fabric; it represents grace, femininity, and tradition. Its elaborate draping patterns differ by region, demonstrating the diversity of Indian culture. Similarly, the sherwani is commonly worn at weddings as it emanates regal grandeur with its exquisite embroidery and majestic form.

Other traditional clothes, such as the kurta, dhoti, and salwar kameez, also have deep cultural value, acting as a connection to India’s glorious past and a celebration of its lively present. Each garment is painstakingly crafted utilizing age-old traditions passed down through generations, resulting in a labor of love and a monument to the artists’ talent and ingenuity. Thus, Indian traditional costume is more than just apparel; it is a cultural treasure trove that captures the essence of India’s vast and diverse history.

Misappropriation of Indian wear

The problem of misappropriation of Indian traditional dress in Western design contexts is a complex issue that requires serious consideration. While fashion thrives on inspiration and reinterpretation, there is a narrow line between appreciation and appropriation. Unfortunately, Indian traditional attire is often stripped of its cultural context and repurposed as mere fashion trends, losing the immense value and symbolism it holds within Indian society. Designers and businesses frequently include elements of Indian wear into their collections, such as intricate embroidery, vibrant colors, and traditional motifs, without fully comprehending the cultural significance of these designs. This shallow approach not only erases the cultural significance of Indian attire but also promotes stereotypes and supports power imbalances in the fashion industry.

The context of cultural sensitivity in the fashion industry is critical for understanding and addressing the complexities of cultural appropriation. Cultural sensitivity requires recognizing and valuing the cultural meaning, customs, and values linked with clothing and symbols from various cultures. It requires a detailed understanding of the historical, social, and religious settings in which these garments originated and how they now continue to carry significance for different communities. Cultural sensitivity necessitates that designers and brands approach the appropriation of traditional Indian attire with humility and respect. Rather than viewing these clothes as fashion trends to be exploited for profit, they should connect with the communities whose cultures they draw inspiration from, and seek their input, collaboration, and approval. This collaborative approach not only preserves the traditional integrity of traditional attire but also promotes mutual respect and understanding among cultures.

Education and Awareness

Education and awareness are critical for enabling people to recognize, understand, and confront issues of cultural appropriation in fashion, such as the misappropriation of Indian traditional attire. Educational programs that promote a greater understanding of cultural sensitivity and respect can provide aspiring designers and industry professionals with the knowledge and tools they need to manage the complexities of cultural exchange responsibly. Incorporating cultural appropriation lessons into the fashion education curriculum provides students with a critical lens through which they can assess their own practices. Furthermore, educational activities can emphasize the cultural relevance and history of Indian traditional apparel, focusing light on the stories, traditions, and craftsmanship that go into each piece of clothing.

Consumer empowerment is an important part of combating cultural appropriation in the fashion industry. Customers wield enormous influence through their purchase decisions, and by making informed decisions, they can promote positive change in the industry. Consumers can empower themselves by learning about the cultural importance and history of the clothes they buy. Understanding the history, symbolism, and customs involved allows consumers to make informed decisions that reflect their values and appreciate cultural diversity. Consumers may proactively hold brands accountable for their behavior by pressing for increased transparency and accountability in their sourcing and design processes. Social media tools enable customers to amplify their voices and raise awareness of cultural appropriation, encouraging corporations to accept responsibility for their actions and make genuine changes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the subject of cultural appropriation in fashion, particularly concerning Indian traditional attire, emphasizes the importance of increased industry awareness, accountability, and collaboration. The fashion industry can progress towards a more inclusive and culturally respectful future by embracing cultural sensitivity, advocating for representation, and encouraging education and understanding. Fashion can bridge cultures, promote understanding, and generate positive social change by embracing diversity, honoring cultural traditions, and elevating marginalized voices.

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