Dear Surya Kumar Yadav,
Our Itihasas and Puranas are full of ethical dilemmas, Dharma Sankatams. Whether it’s Arjuna’s hesitation before the war, Yudhishthira’s lie about Ashwatthama, or Bhishma’s silence at crucial moments of injustice against the Pandavas, each one reminds us that following dharma is never easy.
A few months ago, Shikhar Dhawan and his team made a choice. They refused to play against Pakistan in the World Cup of Legends.
You too may have faced a similar dilemma, with the thought of having to lead a team against Pakistan in the forthcoming Asia Cup.
This week, however, the Government of India has made its position clear. While there will be no bilateral cricket with Pakistan, we will play against them in multilateral tournaments.
With that policy announcement, you are no longer burdened with that decision. As captain, your duty is to follow the will of the state.
However, there are growing protests on social media against this decision. The wounds of Pulwama are still fresh, and many feel we should not be playing cricket with Pakistan.
So what can you do now as the Captain?
Yes. There is something you can still do that is very simple and dignified.Something no one can stop you from doing.
Wear a black armband during the match and stand in silence with your team for two minutes before the game begins.
Let that simple act convey to the world and to Pakistan that we have not forgotten.
Do it for those who were killed. Do it for the families still grieving. Do it for the country that is still mourning.
I am sure the souls of those who lost their lives will watch the match from the sky with gratitude. So will the families. So will the cricket lovers in Bharat.
Jai Hind
Hari’s Curries
A Buffet of Reflections