This article is first part of the two-part story based on the on-ground reportage by Dr. Swati Shukla on the Farmers’ Protest at Delhi Border. The second part can be read here.
5. Harishankar Parsai, a famous satirist from Madhya Pradesh had written a short essay on Republic day titled Thithurta Gantantra aur Bheegti Swatantrata, where he says, Swatantrata Diwas Bheegta Hai Aur Gantantra Diwas Thithurta Hai (our Republic Day is shivering and Independence Day is drenched).
The piece was Parsai’s satire on the facade that these national and official holidays are. Here, Parsai describes the atmosphere at the Republic Day Parade at 26th Jan in Delhi. He hears the radio announcer describe loud claps and applause but Parsai is not able to see where those claps are coming from. It is not coming from the audience seated on chairs in overcoats. It is coming from the fast and continuous claps of people who are sitting on the ground who do not have overcoat pockets to warm their hands. It seems that the Ganatantra is also holding on to the claps of these shivering hands .
Parsai, known for his sharp satire and commentary of social and political system of India is not only incisive but also true. He does not even spare the people who are fooled again and again by the electoral parties and their repeated promises. Perhaps as Parsai says they have nothing but the heat of their clapping hands!
