Myths and Realities About Bihari People: Beyond Stereotypes and Misconceptions
When discussing Bihari people, it is important to dispel the numerous myths that have circulated over the years. Often underestimated and misunderstood, Biharis have a rich cultural background, a history of academic excellence, and a vibrant social landscape. This article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of Bihari people, addressing common misconceptions and highlighting their achievements and contributions to Indian society.
The Myths and Realities
Myth: Biharis are the subhuman race of India.
This harsh and baseless stigma needs to be addressed. Nothing could be further from the truth. Biharis, like any other Indian community, have diverse talents, skills, and contributions to society. Stigmatizing an entire community is not only offensive but also detrimental to their well-being and integration within the larger social fabric.
Examples and Evidence
Honesty: Jai Prakash Narayan
Jai Prakash Narayan, often referred to as JP, was a key figure in the Indian anti-emergency movement in the 1970s. Known for his role in galvanizing public opinion against the authoritarian rule of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, he was renowned for his honesty and integrity. JP had no bank balance, no tangible assets, and was childless. His legacy remains one of dedication and service to the nation.
Literacy: Dr. Rajendra Prasad
Another myth is that many Biharis are product of favoritism or cheating. However, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the first President of India, serves as a counterexample. He was not only a well-educated politician but also a university topper, representing the highest standards of academic integrity. Additionally, he earned the distinction of LLD (Doctor of Laws), which is extremely rare in the field of jurisprudence, and practiced law for a short period.
Challenger: Late Dr. Vashisht Narayan Singh
Dr. Vashisht Narayan Singh, a renowned mathematician, challenged Einstein's theory of relativity. His exceptional skills and academic rigor demonstrate the intellectual capability and potential of Biharis. This achievement stands as a testament to the high levels of intelligence and curiosity maintained by many individuals from Bihar.
Biharis: Beyond Myths
Gallantry: Randhir Prasad Verma
Further dispelling stereotypes, Randhir Prasad Verma, a young Indian police officer, was awarded the Ashok Chakra posthumously. This high honor for solo confrontation with a mafia gang highlights the bravery and capability of individuals from Bihar, often overshadowed by misconceptions.
Cleanliness: Swachh Bharat Mission
To counter the myth that Biharis are dirty, it is worth mentioning that Bihar won the second prize in the Swachh Bharat Mission. This recognition underscores the significant efforts towards improving public hygiene and sanitation that have been made in the state, thus challenging the misconception of untidiness.
Civic Sense: M Sadanand Paul
Biharis are not indifferent to civic sense either. M Sadanand Paul, a teacher from Katiyar, achieved the Guinness World Record for sending the maximum number of letters, 56, to various national dailies in a month, raising awareness about civic issues. His dedication and proactive approach serve as a counterexample to the myth of a lack of civic engagement.
Bihar's Cultural Heritage and Historical Significance
Cultural Background: Kathak Dance
No discussion about Bihari people would be complete without acknowledging the rich cultural background of Bihar. Dr. Shovana Narayan, a former Indian civil servant, is a renowned Kathak dancer. Her contributions to the world of Indian classical dance represent the depth and diversity of cultural expression in the state.
Historical Significance: Foreign Tourists
Finally, the idea that Bihar is a backward state is also incorrect. Nearly six million foreign tourists visit Bihari historic cities annually, attesting to the state's rich history and cultural heritage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is crucial to recognize that Bihari people, like all communities, have complex histories, untold stories, and remarkable individuals. Dispelling myths and understanding the realities of Bihari life is essential for building a more inclusive and informed society. We must strive to learn from the achievements and contributions of Biharis, rather than perpetuating harmful stereotypes and misconceptions.