By P Mohan Chandran
In the vast expanse of human history, when did we trade our intrinsic joy for the shackles of materialism? When did the Indian ethos of 'Ananda' (bliss) get overshadowed by the looming spectre of EMIs? As we navigate the labyrinth of modern life, it's crucial to question the very foundation of our education system and the life it prepares us for. Are we truly free, or are we ensnared in a cycle of perpetual indebtedness, both financial and existential?
Macaulay's Legacy: The Blueprint of Conformity
Over seven decades post-independence, India continues to grapple with the remnants of Macaulay's education system. Designed during the colonial era, this system aimed to create a class of Anglicized Indians who would serve as intermediaries between the British rulers and the masses. While the British have long departed, the essence of this system lingers, emphasizing rote learning, conformity, and a narrow definition of success.
This education system, rather than nurturing creativity and holistic development, churns out assembly-line graduates. They are primed to enter the workforce, not as innovators or thinkers, but as cogs in a vast machine, perpetually chasing the next paycheck, the next promotion, the next material acquisition.
The EMI Trap: The Modern-Day Chains
In the race to 'have it all', the modern Indian finds themselves ensnared in the EMI trap. Homes, cars, gadgets – the list is endless. But at what cost? The pressure to maintain a certain lifestyle, to keep up with the Joneses, has led to a life of perpetual debt. The once-clear demarcation between needs and wants has blurred, and the pursuit of materialistic happiness overshadows the simple joys of life.
But is this the life we envisioned? A life where the weight of monthly installments crushes our dreams, aspirations, and the very essence of happiness? Where the fear of missing an EMI payment looms larger than the fear of missing out on life's precious moments?
The Lost Art of Unconditional Joy
The ancient Indian scriptures spoke of 'Nirvana' and 'Moksha', states of ultimate bliss and liberation. Today, these concepts seem distant, almost mythical. The modern narrative doesn't celebrate 'being happy without a reason'. Instead, happiness is conditional, often tethered to material acquisitions or societal validations.
In this relentless chase, we've forgotten the art of unconditional joy – the kind that isn't tied to a bank balance, a job title, or a piece of real estate. The kind that emanates from within, untouched by external circumstances.
A Call for Introspection
As we stand at this critical juncture, we must ask ourselves: Is this the legacy we wish to pass on to the next generation? An existence defined by EMIs, devoid of genuine joy? Isn't it time we re-evaluate our education system, moving away from Macaulay's blueprint towards a model that fosters critical thinking, creativity, and emotional intelligence?
The real question we must grapple with is not how many EMIs we can afford, but how many moments of genuine happiness we're letting slip away. Are we merely existing, ensnared in a web of materialism, or are we truly living, cherishing the intangible joys that life offers? The choice, as always, lies with us.
Do you agree that EMIs have made us 'slaves' for life?
A. Yes, we struggle all our life only to pay our EMIs.
B. EMIs have raised our standard of living.
© 2023. P Mohan Chandran. All Rights Reserved.
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