Hooliganism, not racism

Hooliganism, not racism

Letters from Mr. Ross Gulliver and Mr. Zatni Arbi (The Jakarta
Post, Aug. 3 and 5, 1995, respectively) touch a raw nerve in me.
Yes, life is indeed hard times.

When sari-clad Indian women go to a market here, they also get
remarks such as nahi, nahi from passers-by. If I go with my
family and happen to hear these words, I smile and cheerfully
wave at the people who make these comments. I tell my folks, "See
how popular Indian movies are in Indonesia." Thus, a problem gets
converted into a pleasure!

If we were to take this matter too personal, mind you, it can
certainly affect our mental balance, at least for a short while.
The idea behind such persons' acts is to invite a reaction and
make you suffer in the process. Isn't that who angers you,
conquers you? No, don't ever give in to them. Adopt a "Take-it-
easy" policy. If we react, they have clearly succeeded in their
attempts. By ignoring their comments, haven't you cheated them as
well?

But, tell me, can the behavior of some ruffians on the road
tantamount to racism? I believe it is downright hooliganism or,
let us say, teasing -- nothing more. It is perpetrated by a few
disgruntled elements in the society. Young blood, envy, improper
upbringing, group behaviorism -- all these factors combine to
make them do these impetuous acts. In all fairness, no deep
hatred or willful animosity can be attributed to their behavior.

Furthermore, let's not forget, there is a very large number of
people out there who are exemplary in their conduct. So, we
really cannot generalize that everyone behaves badly. Hooligans
are a minuscule minority, who can be found, under a different
cloak, in any metropolis, anywhere in the world.

Ironically, in India, there is a different type of
discrimination. Even after 48 years of independence from the
British yoke, the white-skinned foreigners get better treatment
in many Government offices and public places. Respect for the
white skin is somehow deeply ingrained in the blood of some
Indians, even now. What can we say for this?

"If somebody slaps your face, show the other cheek" -- well,
it is Gandhian philosophy, not practicable for commoners like us.
Only Gandhiji could practice it -- that's why he was a Mahatma!

However, let us realize that we shouldn't get perturbed by
pin-pricks. It's a problem, no doubt, but not insurmountable.
Let's try to get a grip of ourselves -- no point of losing one's
sleep over such petty issues. If we take an overall view and try
to force in positive outlook in ourselves, we can indeed bring
life back to its natural balance.

Dear friends, Gulliver and Arbi, please do brush aside such
minor irritation, consider them as passing clouds and get on with
your good-natured selves. Rest assured, our positive good
feelings are with you both.

D. CHANDRAMOULI

Jakarta