Why is Kerala Protesting Against the Beef Ban?

The recent protests in Kerala against the beef ban raise a prickly question: are the people living in Kerala weird or smart?

The Definition of “Weird”

Definition of Weird:

My understanding about the term "weird" includes
unnatural, strange, and unusual actions or beliefs.

Connecting the Questions

Amidst the confusion, two questions arise: Why are Keralites protesting against the beef ban, and are they weird or smart?

Protests Against the Beef Ban

The beef ban is a controversial issue that has sparked intense debate in India. In Kerala, this issue has ignited a fervent protest driven by a complex interplay of cultural, economic, and social factors.

For most Keralites, beef consumption is neither unnatural nor strange. Contrary to popular beliefs, Keralites do not view beef as taboo or against their religion. This is because even BJP leaders, who support the ban, do not necessarily share the same sentiment in Kerala.

Respecting Cows and Other Elders

People in Kerala typically have a profound respect for cows, recognizing their value in the economy and their role in their cultural practices. Unlike in some parts of North India, Keralites often feed their cows and sell them for slaughter when they are no longer productive, rather than worshipping them as goddesses.

Comparing Beef Consumption and Cultural Practices

While northern Indians might see the consumption of beef as a cultural taboo, it is important to note that beef is exported from the North to other parts of the world, including India, without much condemnation. This international trade defies the notion of beef as a strictly cultural issue.

The export and import dynamics of beef highlight the global nature of food consumption, rather than a singular cultural issue. The beef ban, therefore, can be seen as an attempt to regulate internal consumption rather than a global standard.

Economic Impact

The beef ban also has significant economic ramifications, particularly in places like Kerala, where the Muslim population is significant. Selling beef provides livelihood to many people and supports the economic livelihood of the region.

With the rubber prices declining and the global economy facing a recession, Keralites, who are heavily dependent on foreign remittances, have not adjusted to these changing times. Their lavish lifestyle, attributed to better economic conditions a decade ago, is no longer sustainable now, leading to tensions and protests against the beef ban.

Identity and Cultural Beliefs

Keralites have a unique identity based on their purely RICE-based diet. Unlike the milk-based diet of the North, where cows play a central role in their farming and cultural practices, cows in Kerala are not considered as providers of milk, essential to sustain life. Hence, the reverence and treatment of cows in these two regions are quite different.

Respect and Admiration

Keralites do not hold negative perceptions towards Muslims. Muslims and Christians in Kerala came as refugees before the Portuguese, British, or Tipu Sultan, and their contributions to trade and commerce were significant. During Tipu Sultan's invasions, Muslims protected Hindu temple idols in secret, showcasing their loyalty and goodwill.

Many Keralite Muslims have maintained their cultural identity and have been rational and pragmatic about religion. For instance, the government's attempts to radicalize them were met with limited success, and when they saw their children becoming fundamentalists, most families opted for psychological counseling rather than supporting extremist views.

The beef ban is portrayed as a ploy to undermine the economic livelihood of these communities. Keralites, with their sharp intellect and diplomatic nature, have managed to navigate complex social and economic challenges, but the current situation highlights the challenges of adapting to a changing economic landscape.

Smart and Simple

Unlike the complexity of the North, where invaders and wars have played an essential role in shaping society, Kerala's history involves less aggression and more diplomacy. Keralites prefer lower profiles, valuing harmony and stability over expansion and conflict.

They are inherently smart, combining practical wisdom with cultural respect. However, this smartness is often coupled with a lack of ambition, which is why Keralites have not invited external rulers or spies. Their approach to life is guided by common sense and a clear understanding of their societal and economic roles.

Conclusion

To sum up, Keralites are neither weird nor smart in a superficial sense. They are unique in their cultural practices, economic resilience, and community support. The beef ban protests reflect their resistance to policies that they perceive as destructive to their livelihoods. Understanding these nuances is crucial to appreciate the complexity of Kerala’s socio-economic and cultural landscape.