INDIA- PERSPECTIVE FROM OUTSIDE

I have lived in India all my life and am currently in Germany for a short term assignment. During this time, I have also used the opportunity to explore different parts of Europe and meet new people.  I am amazed by the infrastructure and amount of easiness in doing different things in Europe.  

During my journey and interaction to various places, I met many people. There were two common views about India. One by people who had visited India and the others who have not. 

The people who had visited India, were amazed by India's history, culture and diversity. I met a person in Amsterdam , who told me about his experience in India. He was in Pune for four months working in an NGO. He was fascinated by India’s history in Ajantha and Ellora caves, Old forts, 1000 year old temples, the Indian rituals, friendliness, Indian Food and last not the least, the festivals of India.   It gave me a great sense of joy to Know that this Spanish guy enjoyed his stay and is willing to come back to India if he receives another opportunity. Similarly, there are others who have given me the same point of view. 

On the other Hand I have also met people who have not been to India. They have heard only terrible views about India from Media and Television series. It’s sad, but that’s the truth. Today we get to hear about Rape, poverty, deteriorating Indian economy, corruption and scandals about India.  Witnessing all the above issues from Germany, has not been good for India, but thats the whole damn truth of the other side of India.  We are being plagued by so many diseases. These diseases have to be eliminated and cured for a better India. 

India is developing or rather I say was developing. Many tourists are scared and are not willing to travel to India because they fear their own safety. Many foreign male tourist on advice of their better half do not prefer to visit India and instead choose some other tourist destination in world.  This situation has arised mainly by the role the Media has played and behaviour of few people have brought us nothing but only shame. 

Highlighting the issues is important so as to bring awareness among people, but should not be that it pulls down the country in front of others. These issues must be addressed quickly and guilty must be punished else it will not be long before India is in doldrums.