Grihastas Vs Brahmins

 

I am subscribed to SMS updates on India Against Corruption. Something went amiss after the initial euphoria last year. With millions rallying the streets of India to support veteran activist Anna Hazare, today not even a fraction of that figure might be attending the group's regular meetings. I know, for I am one of those guilty. I read the messages, update myself on the on-goings and then resign to my daily schedule. That doesn't mean I have ceased to support the cause. I pay my taxes every year and bluntly refuse to pay a bribe, Always. Yet I wait in anonymity for another mass uprising to take place so that I can lend my support to it. Cowardice? Not really.

There would be some of us who would go about their everyday jobs and businesses to earn money. And this is not a selfish act. The working class earns from doing some service to the nation.. for Nothing useless has ever delivered money. With whatever transactions they carry out every day, they provide their land with some much-needed services, infrastructure and/or money. From farmers to traders to architects to engineers to sweepers to accountants to models to actors to artists to waiters... they're all serving their nation. Ancient texts define this category as the 'Grihasta' - the house-holder.

And then there exists a minority that gains its name, fame and livelihood through social activism.... by studying the laws themselves and then enlightening the working class about them. In ancient days, these would be called Brahman. Then too, the structure of society was similar. A large chunk of countrymen would lead normal family lives, working hard to earn their daily bread and honey. This left them with no time to pursue spiritual search. So this function to balance was assigned to the Brahmans. The Brahmans were yogis, priests and scientists who would make extensive research on the subjects of 'Astitva' (Existence) and 'Dharma' (Righteousness) and then hand-over their learning to the masses. In return for this knowledge, they were protected, nurtured and fed by the Grihastas.

As long as today's Brahmans don't get corrupted by the power of mass support, alike their ancient counterparts, I will support them like a true hot-blooded Kshatriya (warrior) should.

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