Bhai-Bhatijawaad (Nepotism) in India

The tragic death of the brilliant Bollywood actor Sushant Singh Rajput has spread like a wave. Everyone is showing their sympathy towards this star who couldn’t shine bright in the polluted environment of nepotism or favoritism. On 15^th June 2020, Arnab Goswami, in his debate, pointed out that the actor pleaded with the public to watch his movies in order to save his career; this is because he didn’t have a god-father.

We all wish for success in what we love; but we are constantly told to do things that run in the family. No one likes an outsider in their territory. After the death of Sushant, people from various industries are coming and sharing their concerns about nepotism in their field.

We are all aware of those advertisements on TV where a person applies for a job; and he doesn’t know anyone for an approach. In Indian culture we always lookout for our family; and keeping its integrity at the cost of morality is an honor. India has a concentration of various industries with families who are in the same business since long. The ones in power bully the outsider because they might not like their journey of success. Every attempt is made to bring this person down.

Reference is very important especially in the areas where there is power. Bollywood, politics, law, and media are few industries with this concern, where everyone wants to be in the good books of important people. A favor given is expected to be returned in the time of need.

The common question people ask in such industries is “Who gave you this reference?”, and the candidate doesn’t know anyone important they are rejected on spot. Nepotism is making the life of a few easy while for others is opening a highway to worthlessness. It breaks the confidence of a person in a way that is hard to overcome.

Nepotism in Bollywood is out there on display for everyone to see. But the real nepotism that has caused so much stagnation, corruption, and oppression in our country is far less obvious but just as pervasive.

There is a belief that keeping money inside the family is the best way to protect assets and also keep the next generation in check.

Inherently in our culture, there is a belief that the family will not betray the sanctity of the clan or air their dirty laundry outside the house. The bond of blood negates any rational thinking that trust can be bestowed found outside. The attempt to keep the money in the family is the biggest reason that nepotism is still alive in India.

It is the implied duty of law that it helps its subjects to attain their fullest potential. Many people settle for something that could keep their belly full for the life ahead because its easier to give up than moving ahead. When a person is not able to reach their fullest potential it creates a feeling of worthlessness in their eye. Its progressive effects are marking of a decline in mental health. Depression is a common outcome of this decline.

If the depression becomes a clinical depression it becomes a disability for such person. Loss of interest in life is a common outcome that stops a person to enjoy the small perks of life. Such a condition not only affects the life of the person as well as the loved ones.