This is probably something most of us who have moved to a city in
another state / country for a living can relate to: after a few years of
living, we are all eager to embrace it as our own. We want to be a part of its showcase events
and take pride in contributing to its melting pot culture. We want to call this ‘my city’. But to what extent? Take for example Bangalore
where I live.
We are appreciative of its openness in accepting people from nook and
corner of the country for career or for education, but how many of us take the
trouble to fit in, not just with our colleagues or neighbours but to the city and its culture? Are we ready to
accept its many moods, faces and flavours without lamenting or being partial about the pubs and parties? While I am readily
signing up for a Pinkathon or a Habba (cultural fest) or an art session, where
am I when there is a ward meeting? Where am I when there is a protest calling
for safe planning for pedestrians, after a ghostly accident killed people on the
‘pride of the city’ signal free airport corridor?
I take pride in Bangalore’s codes, pubs, parties and malls, but who owns
its traffic mess, garbage mess and water shortage? Ah, that is bad planning and
corrupt administration. So, are we
waiting for Batman to take over and get us out of the mess? Well folks, its you and me and our neighbour
who is the batman and bat woman for our Gotham!
