Impressions

The new year began in  a very interesting fashion. At one side there were people celebrating the victory of a 200 year battle. Then there was a spectrum of people wondering what was there to celebrate when it was a victory of the British against Indians, thereby colouring the event as anti national. This led to protests and the financial capital of the country coming to a halt. There was a disturbing video which was circulated on whatsapp where one of the rioters was a small boy who would be no more than seven years young. On a day when the streets are infested with rioters,  and heavy police patrolling, which parent would let their small child out on the streets. The whole episode was very clearly politically motivated.

Does the seven year child understand caste? Very clearly he has been brainwashed and tutored. Impressions made at these age are lasting and I am extremely sad to see, a young mind being poisoned – for life.

It is a political game, and I don’t know which end of the political spectrum indulges in this. The fact is it is an extremely dangerous game played by the politicians to foment sectarianism. I think a large part of the public recognises this game and the verdict will be out at the ballot booths

In the midst of this, I came across another event. An acquaintance who was once a relative was anticipating a surgery.  I would have met this lady maybe half a dozen times. However a bond was formed by interaction through social media. It was simple respect for each other, nothing else.

It is through facebook, that I came to know of this lady’s surgery. Simple courtesy and natural curiosity led me to seek more details. The answer came as a shock. This young lady in her thirties had decided to donate a portion of her liver. Along with the liver, even the gall bladder is removed. I later came to know that the liver grows back. It would be a life threatening surgery.

Think of it, she didn’t need to do it. There was no pressure from anybody to do so. Which sane person in his / her prime of health decides to give away a part of their body? I know people who have donated kidneys, but then the body does have a spare kidney. And most of the times kidneys are donated to blood relatives.

Here she was having a great career, a full life to live up to, deciding to undergo a part of her body just to save someone’s life. Knowing fully well, that there could be complications. The surgery could be life threatening, The predicted side effects would be hernia, jaundice, hyper acidity and other digestive problems. Some of these side effects could be life long. Her normal movements would get restricted for some point of time, if not permanently. There will be pain, infections. Anything could happen.

We live in an era of instant gratification, crass capitalism and materialism. Success is measured by the size of your house, model of your car, cost of your mobile phone and dream vacations at exotic destinations. In this era, someone decides to risk her life for someone else’s is really special.

I asked myself the question, would I do it and the honest answer is no. In times where people make impressions on social media to advertise their success, Pranali has achieved greatness. No amount of growth in the career, money, fame etc. can match what Pranali has done. Pranali, take a bow, for me you are my heroine, my inspiration.

In this era of vitriolism, it is important to tell stories which make lasting impressions. Between caste divides and sacrifice, I choose the story of selfless love and sacrifice – towards another human being. May god give me and others the strength to take a similar decision if the time comes.

Makar Sankranti, marks the first day of sun’s transit into Capricorn, marking the end of the month with winter solistice and the beginning of longer days. May the sun keep shining bright in your life, Pranali.  Here’s a toast to your good health. Cheers