vijay wrote:
It is because a common definition of nationalism in India is still evolving due to religious divide, caste conflicts, social fractures. nationhood does not happen by a few thrusting it down upon others. It takes time. If communities are insulted , minorities doubted, social oppression encouraged how will a common nationalism develop?
To me, nation is nothing but an extension of family. In a family, whom will you consider a good daughter in law. A daughter in law says that she likes all family traditions. she worships daily. She dresses well. She likes all rooms and garden. Hence she is good family member. But she dislikes and abuses her husband, sister in law and others.
Now think of this in extended family- nation. some organization says that they love the culture, history of country, trees, land, river everything. But the minority community is bad and devilish. Those with other views are anti national. Such organization is just like that stupid daughter in law.
Nation does not mean just old traditions, mythology, a particular community or way of thought. Nation consists of all communities living in the land speaking different languages, having various faiths and so on. Just as a good family member must love and respect other family members- a good citizen must respect all citizens irrespective of caste, creed, faith, language. This is the real meaning of nationalism. Any attempt to force a particular faith, language and way of life on others is certainly not nationalism. This is chauvinism and ultimately means anti nationalism.
In the ultimate analysis, nationalism or say, patriotism is respecting unity in diversity.