Breaking Free: Unveiling the Chains of Bharat Mata’s Enslaved Mind

On World Environment Day, a controversy surfaced in Kerala over a floral tribute to Bharat Mata during an event at the Raj Bhavan. The state government, led by Agriculture Minister P. Prasad, clashed with Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar about using a specific portrait of Bharat Mata associated with the RSS. The conflict arose when Prasad discovered this image was added last minute to the program schedule. He withdrew from the event, arguing that the portrait did not represent an official version of Bharat Mata as per the Indian Constitution.

Prasad emphasized that no government has sanctioned a particular image of Bharat Mata. He stated that honoring a political organization’s symbol at a state event blurred the lines of constitutional propriety. He questioned why a Governor would insist on such a politically charged image, suggesting it undermined the spirit of Bharat Mata as a unifying concept transcending political boundaries. Education Minister V. Sivankutty supported Prasad’s view, insisting that the Raj Bhavan should remain politically neutral.

Despite this, the Governor pressed ahead with the RSS’s image at the Raj Bhavan while the state government shifted its event to a different venue. Post-event, the Governor asserted that he would not yield on this portrayal, reinforcing that the RSS’s depiction of Bharat Mata aligns not just with their ideology but with the current political climate.

The idea of Bharat Mata has deep historical roots that stretch back to India’s struggle for independence. Freedom fighters of 1857 and various leaders contributed to diverse representations of her. Philosophers and public figures, including Jawaharlal Nehru, helped shape perceptions of Bharat Mata as the embodiment of the Indian populace, extending beyond mere geographical boundaries.

A variety of images have emerged over the years, from divine portrayals resembling a goddess to those emphasizing the land and people. The prevalent image of Bharat Mata dressed in India’s tricolor symbolizes the nation’s unity, resources, and the sacrifices made for independence.

In sharp contrast, the RSS representation of Bharat Mata carries its saffron flag and showcases a version that diverges from the inclusive spirit of Indian nationalism. Critics argue that this portrayal shifts the focus away from the historical struggles that define modern India. The environment over the last decade suggests a growing acceptance of the RSS’s vision, where public events increasingly echo their narrative.

This trend raises questions about the polarization of national symbols and the politicization of Bharat Mata. Are we witnessing the erosion of a once-unifying identity into a politically manipulated symbol? Recent surveys reveal a split in public sentiment regarding national symbols, with many feeling that evolving representations challenge traditional views.

This situation isn’t just about art or imagery; it’s about the values we choose to uphold as a nation. Prominent voices in politics and academia must engage in open discussions about Bharat Mata, rather than reducing her to a mere political tool. The conversation around Bharat Mata needs to foster unity, ensuring that every citizen’s story is included in the narrative of national identity.

In the end, the arguments put forth by P. Prasad and his peers reflect a broader concern regarding how patriotic symbols are wielded in political discourse. It raises a critical question: should Bharat Mata represent all of India, or has she been co-opted for specific agendas? This struggle highlights the importance of reclaiming inclusive narratives in shaping a cohesive national identity.

Dr. Prem Singh, a former Delhi University teacher and socialist movement advocate, emphasizes the need for a dialogue that can bridge these divides, recognizing Bharat Mata as a symbol that should unite rather than divide.

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