24/06/2024
A Politically Worthy Son of a Politically Worthy Father.
The debate between nature and nurture in human development is a highly contentious topic. Professor Steven Pinker believes that genetics plays a more significant role, with chance also playing a crucial part. He argues that mutations (which occur accidentally) and certain events can significantly shape our lives.
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The results of the 2024 parliamentary elections can be seen as one such opportunity, and with the advantage of genetics on his side, Kartikeya Chouhan, son of cabinet minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, was not the one to miss it. Allegedly, with RSS backing, he proclaimed that his father is one of the most loved and well-known politicians in the country. What a timely, choreographed statement, delivered with such panache.
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There is some merit to Kartikeya's proclamation, as Shivraj is well-known within the nation's borders. However, his name is also infamously linked to the Vyapam scandal, which shook Madhya Pradesh during his tenure as chief minister. Shivraj is the most politically diligent and workaholic politician, practicing politics 24/7, 365 days a year, year after year, without ever getting tired. He adapts to situations and remains formless, embodying the 48th law of power as taught by Robert Greene in his much acclaimed book, "The 48 Laws of Power." He lets his work speak for itself, meticulously planning the timing of his responses to critics. He is a truly modern, silent, and down-to-earth Machiavellian politician, with his eyes and ears finely tuned to the rumblings from the ground and afar. Affectionately known as "Mama," he has carefully nurtured a loyal constituency among women that continues to thrive and will stand by him in his time of need.
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These are some traits that have been genetically passed from father to son, and Kartikeya has demonstrated them well at critical moments. He never loses his poise, his words are measured, and his voice is commanding and reassuring. In fact, he is a more politically suave version of Shivraj.
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Roger Federer once highlighted the elusive nature of perfection in tennis by sharing a revealing statistic from his career. Despite winning nearly 80% of his 1,526 singles matches, Federer pointed out that he only won 54% of the points played in those matches. This striking detail underscores that even the best players win just over half of the points they play. Federer's insight emphasizes the importance of resilience, diligence, and perspective, teaching that success in tennis—and perhaps in life and politics—comes not from winning every point but from maintaining composure and focus despite frequent setbacks. His advice is to focus intensely on each point while playing but quickly moving on after it’s over, maintaining clarity and commitment to the next point. Federer emphasizes that true champions are those who excel at overcoming difficult moments, accepting and learning from losses without dwelling on them, and continuing to move forward with determination. It appears that Shivraj and his son Kartikeya have embraced this philosophy, as it defines them and their approach to politics.
