The recent development of releasing Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu might have the average Bengalurean heaving a sigh of relief. However, one cannot overlook the feud over how the dispute literally had the city waging rough waters over the past few weeks!
That said, we quizzed a volley of Bengalureans with their roots in both the states about how they perceive tricky situation – of being asked about how they deal with such moments, where every move could equal just one thing: swaying loyalties. However, in reality, going by what we've been told, it's safe to surmise that a sizable number of city dwellers are focusing on the bigger picture. We document some of the interesting responses that came our way!
“I think a lot of anti-social elements from both sides are giving their version and framing it as a general opinion. I've been living in Bengaluru for a while, and feel it's a great city. That said, I also love my roots, which is in Tamil Nadu. But you wouldn't see me posting anything that would trigger ire. To begin with, let's not ask questions about how a particular individual feels if he or she belongs to a particular state. Let's look at how they feel irrespective of the state they belong," opines Ahaana Vijay, a graphic designer.
Adding to how the key to tackling the issue lies in letting the muddy waters settle, Carina Fernandez, a Customer Relations manager of a sports firm, opines, "I think this is quite an instance of mind over matter. We should share more than creating riots or bandhs. Both the states are close to my heart, which is why I personally want peace. And as well-balanced individuals we need to be focusing on the solution, which I sadly don't quite see. It pains me to see many frightened so much of destruction and many clueless of the outcome. I think it's time we turn a blind eye to the triggers until the hullabaloo simmers. Some times, no message is a message in itself. I am praying there is an understanding between the next few days."
Stressing upon how important it is to look at things from a broader perspective, Ajit Nathaniel, who heads operations at a management firm, conclusively says, “I’ve been residing in Bengaluru for the past nine years, and in all honesty, this issue or whatever is being said will not cause any shift in my thinking. The main reason behind the unrest is the lack of awareness. At the end of the day, I think the blame game is a futile attempt – we are from one country for god's sake! So what we actually need is better strategies and maybe be more tolerant. What really appalls me is that people fail to see the big picture. So, from what I perceive, it’s about thinking before you react, And that’s exactly what I intend to do.”
