I spent 24 years of my life in India and even after I left for work, I still visit my homeland at least once/twice a year. This is my roots and has laid the foundation of what I have achieved today. We all have flaws and hate would be strong use of word from someone's lack of proper understanding. I was no different in thinking at your age, but after traveling exhaustively and experiencing different cultures, I can proudly and confidently say India is better and progressing for better too. Most of the “issues” you have mentioned was witnessed in my family and among-st friends. Took me (and some of us) a while to help break that shell. I hope you do the same.
As for being patriotic, I think my definition has changed. I love and respect India and it's diversity. That's what makes us very interesting to the outside world. But I won't close my eyes to any wrong doings in the name of patriotism :) . For me patriotism is helping my country and it's people progress further. When people speak, I try to clarify their biased understanding. I am an ambassador of my own country when I am traveling. I stay away from people (in and out of India) who organize communal gatherings. When I step out of India, I no longer belong to any state or caste, I am an Indian.
You are young. Open your mind and eyes, you will be amazed.
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Answer:
I spent 24 years of my life in India and even after I left for work, I still visit my homeland at least once/twice a year. This is my roots and has laid the foundation of what I have achieved today. We all have flaws and hate would be strong use of word from someone's lack of proper understanding. I was no different in thinking at your age, but after traveling exhaustively and experiencing different cultures, I can proudly and confidently say India is better and progressing for better too. Most of the “issues” you have mentioned was witnessed in my family and among-st friends. Took me (and some of us) a while to help break that shell. I hope you do the same.
As for being patriotic, I think my definition has changed. I love and respect India and it's diversity. That's what makes us very interesting to the outside world. But I won't close my eyes to any wrong doings in the name of patriotism :) . For me patriotism is helping my country and it's people progress further. When people speak, I try to clarify their biased understanding. I am an ambassador of my own country when I am traveling. I stay away from people (in and out of India) who organize communal gatherings. When I step out of India, I no longer belong to any state or caste, I am an Indian.
You are young. Open your mind and eyes, you will be amazed.