Dear India, Am I an Anti-National If I Don’t Say ‘Jai Hind’?

Why has the definition of a good Indian changed?

I tried to become a good Indian but... (Photo: Rahul Gupta/The Quint)

Dear India,
I know you are disappointed with me. I tried to become a good Indian, but then I realised that the definition of a good Indian has changed. Nowadays, people who don’t say ‘Jai Hind’ are not considered ideal Indians. They are anti-nationals.

I tried to think it rationally. But then gave up and refused to accept this pity thoughts of my brothers and sisters. I try to follow each and every rule. I don’t jump signals, I don’t use the ‘tu jaanta nahi mein kaun hu’ card.

I wish to become an IAS officer so that I can make India a better place and help solve the nation’s problems. My friends and relatives are very encouraging, but they also question my intention that I want to earn money by corruption. It’s not just one particular profession. It’s everywhere and it’s inevitable.

India, I really want to be a good Indian. There are people who care about you because we want you to be great. And I want to be a part of the team which makes you great. India, you are secular and don’t differentiate between your children, but there are some people who want to hurt others.

I don’t know if I’m a good Indian or a bad Indian. But I do want to make you awesome. A country where people can live and talk freely, share ideas. I promise you, I will give my best to make this happen.

Yours patriotically,

Shubham

(Do you ever feel like talking to India? Yes, perfect. How about you write to her and tell her if you’re a good Indian or a bad Indian? You could be bitchy, angry, happy, emotional or spoofy. But if your answer is No – never mind, there is always a beginning. So let’s start here.

Don’t be shy, just say it all. Mail us your letter at [e-mail]. We’ll ensure India gets your message.)

To know more about our #LetterToIndia campaign. Check our campaign from last year.