Progressive

Creative entrepreneurs, Rajdeep Naik and Suchita Narvekar have been regular rebels. Besides following their passion, they display social commitment through their plays, films and more importantly, through their positive actions, in personal and social space. One more such illustration happened at their marriage ceremony.

Rajdeep walked in with the Constitution of India in his hands. Suchita glowed without the rule of wearing gold ornaments. A lady priest led them (and the audience) through explained rituals of the Rashtra Seva Dal – an organisation that follows the ideals of Jyotiba, Savitribai Phule and other reformists.

Instead of ‘pheras’ around the fire, they walked together around the map of India. Water brought from their two villages was showered on a mango sapling. Family members took turns to light up a lampstand. They took vows of gender equality, social responsibility, responsive togetherness and other progressive commitments.

Progressive is not just about being the opposite of regressive or conservative. People, who are progressive, initiate and involve in reform. They are interested in positive transformation and progress in thought and behaviour. They like new ways of doing things and are open-minded about change.

Rajdeep and Suchita are worthy role models. Their marriage turned into an inspirational instance. The curbing of wasteful expenditure, the dropping of meaningless ceremonies, the gift of Suchita’s evocative drama-scripts to the guests… in more ways than one, the marriage had many meaningful messages.

Many, who are progressive in personal space, find it tough to be such in social site. We succumb to real or imagined pressure. Rajdeep and Suchita deserve greater appreciation for not only making the choice but taking the time and effort to get all loved ones on board. After all, being progressive is worthier as a collective ideal!

When the rebels walk a progressive way

They encourage others to similarly stray!

~ Pravin K Sabnis