The Best Show On TV

I was up very late last night watching the most interesting show on TV. The no-confidence motion drama in the parliament and the aftermath. It was better than any sitcom and it was live! It was funny and sad to watch the leadership of this country make such a mockery of the country while the whole world watched. I choose to laugh at it rather than feeling sorry for ourselves. We elect these jokers, pay taxes to to support them: we've bought the ticket so might as well enjoy the show. They are paid to entertain us everyday and are doing an awesome job.

It is also sad to see educated and distinguished leaders like Manmohan Singh being made fun of by illiterate morons who we've somehow made our leaders. He may not be the best politician, but I have great respect for him since his days as Finance Minister. The biggest disappointment was the behavior of L.K. Advani as the opposition leader. Why not try and topple the government over something that affects the common man - double digit inflation figures. Something (maybe common sense) tells me that the common man is affected by the increase in cost of living, the indicator is inflation levels; not by our strategic nuclear agreement with the US which may somehow limit our nuclear capabilities. I know, I know - it affects the common man indirectly; its a long term strategy etc etc. Explain that to the next person you meet who takes the bus to work. He is thinking about today and tomorrow, not 10 years from now.

I've never voted; somehow being an adult citizen of India is not enough to be eligible for a voting card. I can get all the credit cards I want, SIM cards, driving licenses, pay taxes, but there is always something missing. But even if I had a voting card I still would not vote; I have no confidence in any politician or party. I do not want to be responsible for voting any of these idiots to power. I've given up on it - for now.

What I have not given up is the faith that things will change. I am doing what I think is right. I serve my country by being here, by being a part of it. I am proud of my friends; businessmen, farmers, doctors, engineers and professionals, who choose to be here. I am extremely proud of my friends in the army. I am also proud of my friends who are abroad, working hard and successful - representing India in their respective fields. I see a lot of good people and potential leadership around me.

Of course, this morning after the political drama was over the news channels went back to their regular news programming and keeping the masses updated on the most important current events that affect our country - What color panties was Katrina Kaif wearing on her birthday and will Sachin Tendulkar break Brian Lara's record of most runs in test cricket. It is their moral duty to keep us informed and without this up-to-date information our kids may not grow up right.

I've mentioned earlier that I don't have any political views. I couldn't care less for any political party. I know I should - after all this is my country and I do have a sense of ownership. I am patriotic. I moved back to India after living abroad (not gulf) for 8 years. I could not accept giving up my Indian citizenship for any amount of money or whatever fabulous career options. Many times I have defended India, our culture, tradition and our way of life wherever I've heard misinformed or misguided people talk about it. How does one defend or justify this drama? Well, all I can say is sit back and enjoy the show.

Dude, pass the popcorn!