Yesterday, I had no better work than to watch the special programs in Sun TV. There was something which really bothered me and ultimately made me write this post.
I think there was a piece which was running every 30 minutes. I believe, it was sponsored by Airtel. The piece was nothing but our Indian National Anthem sung by various eminent singers of India (one singer every half hour) and also played by some wonderful musicians. I really respect each one of them and sure, I would not hesitate to listen to them, again and again. Also I respect the patriotism of Airtel, in creating this piece. But what was not in good taste, according to me, was the National Anthem being used for this. I am a firm believer that National Anthem has some specific occasions for itself and cannot be used as a ‘just-like-that’ song, to show our patriotism. I would have enjoyed it much better, if some other patriotic song, like ‘Vande Mataram’ had been used.
I had 3 options whenever the piece was played on television:
1) Change the channel or mute the TV - This amounts to insulting the National Anthem
2) Leave the place or remain sitting on the couch - This too amounts to insult
3) Stand up every time the National Anthem is played and pay due respect.
Ultimately I had to choose the 3rd option and pay respect to the Anthem, for about 15 times.
