Attempting to Change the Perception
Author: Navneet
Originally inspired by: The blog “So What Will Another Five Years of Modi Be Like?” by Pathmanathan
This blog began as a response to Pathmanathan, a blogger who admitted to never having visited India and based his perceptions largely on media reports. Thankfully, he didn’t rely on Indian media — else his concerns over Modi’s re-election would have been even more alarmist. His blog carried tones of caution and even hope that Modi wouldn’t retaliate against southern states, especially Tamil Nadu, for not voting BJP.
Interestingly, out of five comments posted on that blog, three were from South Indians. Except for one that agreed with the sentiment of a North-South divide, the others barely acknowledged the concern.
Let’s clarify something at the outset: This website is run from Chennai by a Tamilian, and most of its bloggers are South Indian. It’s telling that, despite that, Pathmanathan’s fears weren’t widely endorsed. Even if ten people read his blog, the ratio of support would likely mirror the national election results — a decisive mandate for Modi.
Pathmanathan’s perspective reflects how poorly Indian political realities are understood abroad, thanks to a media ecosystem — both Indian and Western — that is often riddled with bias, colonial hangovers, and ideological echo chambers. Many international narratives still carry undertones of guilt, nostalgia, or even disdain leftover from colonialism.
Why is Indian Media Anti-Modi?
To understand this, we must explore the enduring colonial mindset post-British rule. Unlike many post-colonial nations, India struggled for decades to represent its rich culture and values globally. The world was shown the Taj Mahal and erotic temple carvings, but not the soul of its civilization.
Modi, for all his faults, has shifted global perceptions. His emphasis on cultural identity and pride has been both lauded and vilified. This new assertion of Indian-ness often unsettles those who see India through the lens of poverty, chaos, and colonial subservience.
Addressing the Southern Bias Allegation
Pathmanathan suggests that Modi has a grudge against Tamil Nadu because of its rejection of Hindi. While Tamil Nadu’s resistance to Hindi is political, the cultural interweaving of North and South is undeniable. Tamil actresses dominate Hindi cinema, and artists like A.R. Rahman are global icons. Rahman, born Hindu and now a Muslim, himself reflects India’s spiritual pluralism.
As for the alleged snub to Tamil farmers or cyclone victims — these claims didn’t even make major headlines in India. Modi visiting godmen or spiritual leaders (like Sri Sri Ravi Shankar from Karnataka) is hardly unique. Across India, godmen have followers, power, and yes — helicopters.
Let’s not forget Rajinikanth, the Tamil superstar and cultural icon, is originally Maharashtrian. NTR, the Telugu legend, is still revered despite his mixed success in politics. Even when political figures oppose Modi — like the ex-CM of Andhra Pradesh — the electorate’s decisions have spoken otherwise.
On the Statue of Unity
Much outrage has been raised about the funding of the Sardar Patel statue. But here are some facts:
- Cost: ~$420 million
- Built using agricultural scrap metal from 600,000 villages
- Over 1.5 million visitors in the first five months
- Expected to create 15,000 direct jobs in tourism and allied sectors
- Facilities include museums, gardens, solar-powered tent cities, and hotels
Source: The Hindu Business Line
If statues can attract tourism, generate employment, and create infrastructure in remote tribal regions, why is it not considered wise spending?
Is Modi Promoting Hindu Nationalism?
Hinduism, unlike many organized religions, is fundamentally pluralistic. It has survived and absorbed countless invaders, and this inclusivity has shaped India’s unique identity. There is a difference between cultural pride and religious fundamentalism. Critics often blur this line.
Yes, dissent is a part of democracy — but so is listening to the majority’s voice. Modi’s win was not through coercion; it was electoral and democratic.
Final Thoughts
Pathmanathan’s concern about a North-South divide is valid to explore, but his conclusions are flawed. India’s complexity defies binaries. The real tragedy is not in disagreement, but in misperception. Global readers must question the filters through which they view India — whether Western media, outdated stereotypes, or selective outrage.
Modi won’t starve Tamil Nadu for not voting for him. That’s fear-mongering. But understanding why Tamil Nadu votes the way it does — or why Modi remains popular — requires a nuanced lens.
We are a chaotic, democratic, spiritual, multilingual, and vibrant nation. And we’re just getting started.