Goa's noted theatre artiste Rajdeep Naik, lately known for his popular satirical YouTube videos under the 'Hello Vasanti' series has been a target of anti-social elements with his car damaged and rear glass screen shattered. This development came hours after Rajdeep uploaded a critical video of the State government's one-time monetary relief promised to various cultural artistes.
Rajdeep’s video mocks at the one-time grant of Rs 10,000 and ridicules the government for 'ignoring’ the problems faced by artistes during the pandemic. Rajdeep concludes that culprits shattering the glass of his car have only emboldened his resolve to bring out the injustices meted out to common citizens.
The video has undoubtedly struck a raw nerve in the system. The damage inflicted on Rajdeep’s car is a clear reflection of hatred and an attempt to silence a voice that has gone against the government. It sets a horrible precedent, on the lines witnessed in other States where opposition voices against the establishment are dealt with ruthless aggression. This attack is an assault on the right of common citizens and which is why, a police force which otherwise basks in cracking cases speedily, needs to act equally fast.
Goa is a peace-loving State, and people who are either deprived or neglected have a fundamental right to free expression and reasoned dissent. The government of the day must accept the reality that cultural artistes are the worst hit, and will continue to be affected, even when the rest of the world moves on. It has to understand that the theatre and entertainment industry and the hundreds of stage artistes and support staff will not be able to sustain themselves with a one-time relief.
On the face of it, a Rs 10,000 grant may appear a fair relief, but given the plight of artiste and theatre personalities and the joblessness they are facing from April 2020, this one-time dole, if equated to their misery and the current rate of inflation, appears insignificant. They are in a helpless situation because there are no alternative support systems to fall back on, neither are they tech-savvy to take the online route wherever possible.
Artistes are cultural ambassadors of the State, and it is through them that Goa takes pride in showcasing its rich cultural diversity. On January 21 this year, 17 personalities were felicitated and presented with the State Cultural Award for their efforts in the field, just like every other year. The sad irony is that while the government has taken cognizance of the work of a few, it has failed to understand their real plight and silent suffering.
Leave aside the trophies, garlands and the show of recognition, our artistes that have shown a high level of diligence, creative prowess, and strength of character in battling all odds and keeping our cultural flag flying high deserve respect and genuine support. There is a greater need to understand them better and work out realistic solutions.
