Making a stand

In recent days, social media has been abuzz with debates on a whole lot of topics of national importance. The Supreme Court hinting that it may modify the order of playing the National Anthem in cinema halls has evoked reactions from both sides of the fence.

Aakansha Bhushan, a communication professional, says, “I enjoy standing up for the National Anthem before the movie especially because we don’t get to do it after school. It allows me to rekindle those moments and show respect to my country.” She further adds that it’s not a way to instil patriotism but just a sign of respect that one should not grudge.

But there are dissenting voices also. Sezel Lalwani, a professional, could not agree more with Supreme Court judge D Y Chandrachud, who asked if one “should wear our patriotism on our sleeves”.

She says, “I don’t think the National Anthem should be played in theatres because it is forced nationalism. After the ruling in November, people judge you and get into fights if you don’t stand up during the National Anthem in theatres, even if you have a genuine problem. It is not something I feel like doing and there have been times when I’ve gotten a couple of nudges and comments too.”

For junior marketer Ankitha Joseph too, it feels enforced. She explains, “Singing the National Anthem does not help the masses in imbibing patriotism. Instead, it is only encouraging a part of the society who want to force their beliefs down the throat of others. Patriotism is an important topic but India has more serious matters to look into.”

Despite all the negativity surrounding the order, Nikhilesh Melkote loves standing up for the anthem with his son when they go for a movie.

The finance consultant says, “Schools these days don’t play the National Anthem; they just end with the school song. The new generation isn’t even introduced to it, so I’m glad that my son gets to hear this at least in movie theatres.”

He also hopes that filmmakers don’t just add bits of the National Anthem in their movies, citing creative liberty. “You either play the whole song or don’t. It’s disrespectful,” he opines.

Nithin Karunakaran, a business intelligence consultant, too likes standing up for the National Anthem.

Having said that, he hopes that the government also gives one the reason to feel proud. He says, “I don’t mind standing up at all but it’s important that others are also comfortable. In many developed countries, citizens are proud of their country because they are given the facilities to lead a comfortable lifestyle. So if we too are provided with a good life, this debate wouldn’t even arise.”

What’s your take on this?