Understanding Identity in context of the “Idea of India”
A part of man’s nature is to segregate into groups. May it be nationality, race, culture, linguistics, religion or caste, every aspect of identity manifests into a congregation of the similar. Multiplicity of identity, distinct groups, varying principles and ideas, unique culture and traditions, contrasting opinions on ethics and many other factors invariably lead to conflicts. These conflicts take the form of violence, discrimination, power struggles, etc. leading us to the question of relevance of multiplicity of identity. Its role in the formation of a society.
Is the idea of multiple individual identities and diverse groups innately problematic? Do we strive for homogeneity in a country like India where tradition and culture has the strongest of roots and regional identities are what hold various societies together. Do we adhere to the westernized perception of modernity? Are we forever bound to our accidental birth identities? Identitities and evironments where we were born in, which we have no control over ?
To answer these questions one might consider a hypothetical situation wherein a person is entirely unexposed to influences, stripped of birth identities, saved from environmental conditioning. One might consider it to initialize a certain homogeneity and nullify discrimination. However it would also lead to eradication of identities themselves. Hence, it is not the identity that should be questioned or tempered with. It is the outlook towards it. Identities are not the cause of discrimination. It is the perception towards them.
We claim that a modern society, a secular state; is moving away from social evils. However it is important to observe the method utilized to do so. Rather than the complete and total acceptance of identities and encouraging freedom of choice and ownership; our current idea of modernity strives for homogeneity and centralization. In a country like India, where the fabric of society is weaved through cultural traditions, this idea becomes problematic. Hence, segregation and grouping is legitimate. However, instilling animosity, discrimination and power hierarchy on the basis of these groups is not. Exceptional pride in one’s accidental birth identity might not be practical. However, complete ownership without negative consequences of the birth identity is what society needs to strive for. A strong idea of India can be defined by its strong regional identities.
We are capable of understanding how segregation, identity, freedom and inclusivity play out and this understanding can save us from the issues that face our country today. Escaping fixed and prejudiced ideas, questioning the status quo, increased empathy and sensitivity can ultimately lead to a desired state of societal working that opens its arms to everyone and anyone.
“Where the world has not been broken up into fragments; By narrow domestic walls”
-From Ranbindranath Tagore’s poem “Where the mind is without fear”
Essay penned March 2021
Outlookin' life 