India is Bharat— What's in a Name?
The President's Dinner Invite: Stirring Debate and Possibly Controversy in the Nation.
The President's Dinner Invite: Stirring Debate and Possibly Controversy in Bharat
The dinner invitation sent out on behalf of the President of Bharat for the upcoming G-20 Summit has stirred a major debate, if not outright controversy. This is perhaps the first time that 'Bharat' has been used so prominently in an English-language document for an international event.
What’s in a Name? From Shakespeare to Brand Managers
The question of "What's in a name?" echoes from the corridors of literature to the cubicles of brand management. Shakespeare famously said in 'Romeo and Juliet,' "That which we call a rose, by any other name would smell as sweet." For a brand manager, a name is everything—it is identity, image, and heritage. The Modi Government's decision to openly use 'Bharat' in such a high-profile international invite certainly places them more in the boardroom than in the balcony of a Shakespearean playhouse.
Aligning with Article 1: Constitutional Authenticity
The ruling BJP's foremost argument is grounded in the Constitution. Article 1 clearly states, "India, that is Bharat, shall be a Union of States." Advocates argue that this move aligns with the Constitution and is therefore not just permissible but obligatory. The term 'Bharat' is woven into the very fabric of the nation's most fundamental legal document.
Unshackling from Colonial Legacy
The second point brought up by the BJP is the aspiration to fully break free from colonial influences. The term 'India' is often seen as a lingering effect of British rule. By taking the initiative to use 'Bharat' in a significant international forum, the Government asserts that it is discarding the last vestiges of a colonial past. It aims to reclaim the identity that predates British rule, reflecting a vision of self-reliance and cultural sovereignty.
Celebrating India’s Cultural Tapestry
The name 'Bharat,' according to the third point from the BJP, is a nod to India's rich and diverse cultural heritage. It serves as a tribute to the mosaic of languages, religions, and traditions that define the Indian subcontinent. Using this name in such a significant international event is a statement of intent to put India's indigenous culture on the global stage.
The Opposition’s Concerns
The initiative has not gone unchallenged. Jairam Ramesh and Shashi Tharoor of the Indian National Congress have questioned the decision. While they acknowledge that 'Bharat' is constitutionally valid, they also caution against abruptly abandoning the name 'India,' which has its own significant global recognition. Moreover, they wonder why this name change has taken so long, considering the BJP has been in power for over nine years.
Rebuttal from the Ruling Party
In response, the BJP has criticized the Congress for failing to respect the Constitution and perpetuating a colonial mindset. The BJP claims that the opposition is more interested in scoring political points than in embracing an identity that resonates with the majority of Indians.
Timing and Political Calculus
The timing of the decision leaves room for speculation. Is it an attempt to counter the recent surge in popularity of the 'I.N.D.I.A. bloc,' a coalition set to oppose the BJP in the 2024 elections? The timing is undeniably curious.
"If It Were Done When 'Tis Done"
Shakespeare's line from 'Macbeth,' "If it were done when 'tis done, then 'twere well it were done quickly," encapsulates the mood well. Whether political, cultural, or simply constitutional, the name change represents a significant shift. A decision like this, if it is to be made, is better made sooner than later.
Embracing Bharat: A Sweetened Identity in a Changing Nation
Despite the diverging opinions and political ramifications, this milestone unmistakably signifies an important juncture in India's—now more fittingly Bharat's—endless endeavour to carve its identity. As a citizen who always took pride in being Indian, today I find a more profound sense of belonging as I proudly declare: I am a citizen of Bharat. If India was sweet to my identity, Bharat adds an even sweeter note.
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You could have delved deeper Mr Sidhu..
Perhaps first time I am reading a shallowly scripted piece from your pen.. needs review, even the words-smithry is missing for which you are known..
Finally I.N.D.I.A VERSUS BHARAT:)