A recent op-ed by Samar Halarnkar, editor-at-large of Hindustan Times, compares the rise of toxic forms of nationalism in India with the same process in Turkey, where media are banned from criticizing the word "Turkishness." As Halarnkar points out, Indian states have been introducing culturally chauvinistic legislation, including banning cow slaughter and having the Bhagvad Gita taught in schools. At the same time, Halarnkar observes, attacks on free expression by self-proclaimed patriots are growing, notably the bringing of treason charges against a 25-year-old freelance political cartoonist for mocking the Indian state. Against this backdrop, IIJNM Op-ed Writing students pondered whether their "Indianness" is something foisted on them or a quality that developed naturally.

In India, no one owns ‘Indianness’

A few days back, #AwesomeIndianthings was trending on Twitter. Some of the tweets that were posted were quite hilarious but Indian to the dot, speaking of how Indians made Chinese dishes unheard of in China and our tendency of jabbering at express speed.

Who is an Indian, after all?

Defining Indianness is something very complex. And before we attempt to find an answer, we must first try and answer this basic question: Who is an Indian?

Forced patriots?

Indianness is something I can relate to as I feel patriotic and hope to do good for my country. But often, Indianness seems forced on us: We are told to be “proud Indians,” though what we should be proud of is never explained.

The corruption of belief

Do you ever wonder if your society has imposed anything upon you? This might be the first time the question occurred to you, if it does not make sense, let me ask you one question: Would you go to temple and do a pooja (offering) if you saw a snake in your house?