From being ‘we are like that only’ to ‘this isn’t right’, Hyderabadis have sure come a long way. For long, there was an argument about the lack of a beach unlike Chennai, so, ‘we can’t go beach combing’ to show our concern for the environment and against pollution. From there came the argument about idol immersion in Hussainsagar lake and other lakes in the city. Tradition and religious sentiments were at stake. Come 2014, clay idols are slowly and steadily making way into our homes, offices and business establishments.
Cycling is yet to find its way into the mainstream traffic, and we have very few devoted stretches, but despite that cycling has attracted a lot of fans, they might not cycle to work, but they cycle for leisure. “Cycling is a small step to protect the environment along with taking care of one’s health. Though gradual, the change is bound to happen, as everyone is concerned about the environment they live in,” says Gokul of Bike Affair club.
Recently, during the marathon run, there was support of different kinds. If one group ran, one group trained, another worked at gathering shoes for those who couldn’t afford shoes to run. On the day of the marathon, while the participants ran to the finish line, volunteers on foot gathered and collected the litter that was left by spectators.
Intellectuals and thinkers attribute this positive change in the mindset to the active participation by youngsters and exposure to events across the world that triggers a positive change. “This change is good but the change isn’t complete yet. It is a gradual one. The change is an outcome of the activism which one gets to see. This kind of activism wasn’t there when we were growing up. Now according to one’s interest and passion everyone is involved to bring about a change. It can be a small step but it counts,” says Ajay Gandhi whose passion for in-depth discussions led to begin the popular forum Manthan in the city along with his friend.
Citing an example of the mindset, Ajay Gandhi adds, “In our monthly meetings and discussions on social media, some are openly bigoted. These discussions tell us that the mindset change is further required.”
Sensitising is happening at every level. And that could be the reason why Hyderabadis are standing united to the case of the young actress who was arrested on the grounds of ‘immoral activities’. Efforts are on to free the actress from the remand home where she is housed. “As a proof of her talent, I would like to urge people to watch the trailer of the documentary she made. The documentary is on Indian classical music. If one cannot support her; they shouldn’t troll her either,” says art curator Kaali Sudheer.
