It is always easy to love India more, firmly ensconced in the comforts of a first world country. Its problems take on a softer hue and accomplishments get amplified (Mars on a shoestring budget). This became quite evident watching the Madison Square Garden crowd lustily cheer every banal utterance of Prime Minister Modi. This was a crowd that deeply loved India and yet had no direct stake in its future. Contrast this to the recent bi elections held this month, in parts of north India which had helped BJP sweep to power in the general elections of May. The voters largely rejected the BJP this time round. These voters, men and women, which the English press condescendingly labels as “Bharat” matter more to both India and Mr. Modi’s future. Worryingly they appear to be less swayed this time by his soaring oratory, earthy humour and promise to bring in change. Prime Minister Modi means well and his commitment to change India for the better shines through. But after years of disenchantment with the UPA government, expectations of rapid change, fueled in part by his own rhetoric, is unreasonably high. Mr. Modi is clearly setting himself to fail if changes on the ground are not felt soon. Time then perhaps to under-promise and over-deliver Prime Minister?
Posted on: Tue, 30 Sep 2014 05:24:43 +0000
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