Would you be insecure if you suddenly lost network or had no access to Wi-Fi? Our lives automatically turned around with technology that’s inbuilt into every step, and there really is not much thought about what changes it has brought about. These folks tell us about the mindless connect and if they consider it a purposeful disconnect.
The most disarming part of being connected is it grows on you and you end up needing it on a daily basis. Being dependent on having constant access to a network is a “must-have.” Deanna DS, a political science graduate says, “There was a time I would’ve said life would be peaceful without Wi-Fi or data but now I’m so increasingly dependent on it. Even when it’s slow or exceptionally expensive, it’s an essential part of my life. I check real-time traffic before I step out for the day.
The GPS decides which route to take and I have to stream music online. No Internet means physically going out shopping, booking movie tickets, getting recharges and paying bills after hours of standing in queues. In short, it feels like too much work. I would definitely feel a sense of loss and wonder how to do even the simplest of tasks. There would also be a sense of missing out.”
Getting out of network has to be a deliberate choice and it’s not an easy one. Janya Jaideep, a student of Jain University says, “In college, we have to refer to a lot of content on the Internet. So losing Wi-Fi for even an hour makes me super anxious. I have tried to keep myself away from the Internet, but I always find myself being drawn back towards it. I’ve gotten used to watching YouTube before I sleep and now I can’t sleep without doing that.”
A lot depends on person to person but it only becomes a cause for worry when simple basic necessities like texting or calling is impossible especially if you have an important day planned. Rajashree Das, a theatre studies graduate says, “When you have a day planned and you need to keep your parents updated about your whereabouts, it becomes a problem. Networking is a huge deal these days, and it has become a necessity now and it’s no longer a choice. Your virtual presence is affected in that sense. The most important instance when I wouldn’t want to be connected virtually would be during an off day from work. “
