When discussing Indian nationalism, a point is raised that applies a comedian’s mockery of American nationalism to the Indian context. Supporters of Modi have launched attacks in the comments, threatening to sacrifice their lives for the country in a future war. This is countered with the question of why people willing to sacrifice their lives for the nation’s revival are not willing to work hard to lift the country out of poverty or make basic improvements like cleaning their local streets, the Taj Mahal, or the Ganges River.
People would rather fight for an elusive war than work hard to feed their families, and would rather pray for the success of a national satellite than dutifully produce quality screws at their jobs. This phenomenon suggests that people are absorbed in a false sense of national pride and propaganda, neglecting fundamental problems in their daily lives. For those who are able to leave India, the advice is to emigrate to countries like the U.S., Canada, or Australia, as simply leaving can improve their lives more than 90% of other Indians. For those who cannot leave, the advice is to stay away from religion and politics and focus on working hard and saving money to build a competitive advantage for themselves. Individuals should first improve themselves and care for their families before discussing national affairs. Sacrificing for the nation is a cheap and easy slogan, but working hard for one’s family and changing one’s destiny requires firm determination and perseverance.