POLES APART: UK's MONARCHY AND INDIA'S DEMOCRACY

A republic is far closer to democratic traditions than a monarchy, where a queen or king from one dynasty is more privileged than the rest of the citizens 

- A SURYA PRAKASH

Over the years, Indians have become quite used to anchors in western media outlets like BBC and CNN talking down to them and deriding them for various reasons often related to Hindu religious and social customs and rituals. But these channels rarely turn the spotlight on their societies or reflect on traditions that exist therein, which are completely out of tune with the modern world.

The issue at hand is the saturated coverage of the death of Queen Elizabeth III on these channels and the gushing, laudatory commentaries that went on 24X7 for ten days about the monarchy, the pomp and pageantry that surrounded the event, and the anointment of Prince Charles as king.

The colourful tunics, the regalia and the ceremonies surrounding the proclamation of Charles III as the King from St. James Palace and in all towns and habitations.

across his "kingdom" would surely seem anachronistic to Indians who, thanks to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, bid goodbye to their kings and queens 75 years ago. It seemed odd to watch the proclamation being read out in various locations in this age of social media and the internet. But, who are we to complain if the British wish to live in the past? The processes and rituals involving the transition extend to various things, including replacing the queen with the king on British currency, postage stamps, and even the national anthem. The Indian tradition is just the opposite. We bring out postage stamps to commemorate the life and work of leaders, usually after their death. The anthem has changed-"God Save the Queen" has been replaced with "God Save the King".