The Critique of Narendra Modi's Call: A Call for Unity or a Masked Desperation?

Introduction to the Concept and Cultural Beliefs

Hinduism, the predominant faith in India, is deeply intertwined with cosmic beliefs and spiritual practices. According to these beliefs, the nine planets in the galaxy ( Navagrahas ) are said to influence the destiny and events on earth. In April 2020, during a peculiar period when these planets aligned, Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister of India, proposed a unique initiative: for all Indians to switch off their lights at a specific time and light a lamp or flash torches as a collective prayer.

This idea, rooted in cultural and astrological significance, sparked mixed reactions. For practitioners, this was a meaningful way to connect spiritually. However, for many others, the focus on lighting lamps diverted attention from the urgent health crisis posed by the coronavirus pandemic. This essay critically examines the motives behind such a call and the underlying messages it conveys.

The Cultural and Spiritual Significance of Lighting Lamps

In Hinduism, lighting lamps has deep spiritual and cultural significance. It is believed that lamps, especially oil lamps or incense, can ward off evil and bring blessings. The act of lighting lamps, therefore, is a common practice during religious rituals and festivals. On a cultural level, this act also symbolizes unity and the shared resilience of the people.

Prayer and Rituals: Lighting lamps is often part of prayers for blessings, health, and prosperity. Community Unity: Lighting lamps can symbolize togetherness and solidarity, unifying individuals under a shared spiritual endeavor. Spiritual Protection: The act is seen as a way to protect oneself and others from negative energies.

By making this call, Modi aimed to harness the power of collective prayer and symbolize solidarity in the fight against the pandemic. However, the criticism revolves around the practicality and the message conveyed by the initiative.

Critique of the Call to Light Lamps

The initiative to light lamps at 9 PM on April 5th of 2020, while it intended to foster unity, garnered criticism for its apparent inconsistency with the broad aims of fighting the pandemic.

1. Impracticality and Coincidence:

Practical Concerns: Switching off lights during a power-cuts-prone season like April may have practical implications, especially for the elderly and those with no alternative source of light. Political Camouflage: The timing coincided with a period when the planetary alignment was believed to bring good fortune, raising questions about whether it was a politically motivated move disguised under a spiritual cover.

2. Symbolic vs. Functional Unity:

Amateur Leadership: The emphasis on lighting lamps, without concrete action, might be seen as a sign of leadership that lacks a coherent plan. Overstated Impact: While collective prayers can be profoundly spiritual, they may not be effective in combating the spread of a pandemic.

Modi's call was indeed a powerful symbol of national unity. Yet, it also highlighted a leadership style that some perceive as overreliant on emotional appeals rather than substantiated policies.

The Need for Confidence in the Face of Crisis

A more effective approach during such times is to instill a sense of confidence among the populace. Today, the need for such confidence is more pressing than ever.

1. Leadership During a Pandemic:

Clear Communication: Leaders must be transparent, clear, and consistent in their messages to build trust. Proactive Measures: Effective public health measures and guidelines are crucial in managing the spread of the virus.

2. The Role of Hope and Optimism vs. Practical Confidence:

Hope: Encouraging hope can inspire people to remain positive, but it must be balanced with practical steps for recovery. Confidence: Building practical confidence through effective governance, clear communication, and tangible actions is key to overcoming the crisis.

Leaders must provide a roadmap for how the nation will emerge from the crisis. Efforts to reassure the public and ensure their well-being through concrete actions will have more lasting impact than emotional gestures.

Conclusion: Learning from Effective Leaders

The example of Taiwan's president, Tsai Ing-wen, offers a powerful model of effective leadership. During the pandemic, she focused on practical, clear, and direct communication, coupled with decisive action. Her speech, lasting just ten minutes, was crisp and compelling, emphasizing the need for meticulous planning and execution to control the spread of the virus.

While lit lamps may symbolize unity, concrete actions and confidence are what truly secure the future. It is the responsibility of the leadership to channel the spirit of unity into practical measures that ensure the well-being and safety of every citizen.

Let us strive towards a vision where the fire engine is on its way, and we trust that the driver knows the narrow road awaits, ensuring our collective safety with iron fists and golden hearts.