“In a perfect world”, what does it mean? The concept of a perfect world varies greatly from one individual to another, with each person harboring their unique vision of an ideal existence. Recently, I encountered a moment that resonated with my personal notion of a perfect world while visiting the Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya (IGRMS), also known as the National Museum of Humankind or the Museum of Man and Culture. This remarkable museum, situated in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India, sprawls across a lush 200-acre campus, essentially transforming it into a forest.
IGRMS pays homage to India's tribal cultures through a captivating mix of outdoor and indoor exhibitions. These displays showcase the coexistence of diverse Indian communities in various ecological regions, exploring aesthetics, religion, and socio-economic beliefs. The museum immerses visitors in the lifestyles of tribes across the nation, from hamlets to coastal areas, Himalayan regions, river valleys, deserts, and arid zones.
What truly sets IGRMS apart is its meticulous attention to detail in recreating or transplanting different traditional house-types from various regions within its open-air exhibitions. This thoughtful approach extends to creating an authentic environment around these houses, allowing visitors to immerse themselves fully in the cultural richness and diversity on display.
My visit to IGRMS wasn't for leisure; it was a work-related trip. Little did I know that I would stumble upon this oasis of tranquility. The day was marked by persistent rain, a downpour that had lasted for two days. At 2 pm, my colleagues and I stopped at the canteen to grab some food. There, we encountered an elderly couple engaged in a lively conversation about Indian mythology with a middle-aged man. Soon, it was our turn to order a thali and some samosas since we hadn't had lunch.
Gradually, the canteen attracted more visitors – two security guards, two maids who worked at the museum, and even the canteen's cook. Without realizing it, we had formed a group of 11 people from diverse backgrounds, all engaged in animated discussions about our lives, their work at the museum, and sharing hearty laughs. What struck me was how content and happy the museum staff seemed in their roles. Most of them were from tribal communities in Madhya Pradesh and had been employed by the central government for over three decades.
Surrounded by lush forests and picturesque hill views, a cool breeze in the air courtesy of the recent rains, this was my perfect world. Nature enveloped us as we shared joyous moments with people from different communities. There was no room for thoughts of inequality, wealth, or status – only genuine exchanges of happiness and love.
This experience led me to contemplate what elements had created this harmonious space. Was it the refreshing rain, the verdant forest, the chilly breeze, the inclusive culture, or simply the love that pervaded our conversations? I believe it was a combination of all these factors.
As human beings, we are inherently social creatures. While modern society has pushed us towards individualism, the resulting isolation has given rise to a myriad of mental health issues. My own journey, marked by pursuing education abroad and focusing on career advancement, has often distanced me from the sense of community ingrained in my culture. However, as I delve deeper into my city's culture, I sense a newfound belonging, something that resonates deep within my soul.
This experience prompts me to wonder: Is bliss found by staying in the place where we were born, or must we venture elsewhere to seek it? Can we create this sense of contentment wherever we are, as long as we remain connected to ourselves and our roots?
This isn't a critique of the current generation, driven by desires for higher salaries, lavish vacations, and extravagant lifestyles. However, I can't help but question if such a lifestyle is, in some cases, a way of escaping one's true self. After all, what's the purpose of acquiring wealth if we don't have time to spend with our own children or nurture meaningful relationships? Loneliness often plagues those who prioritize material success over human connections.
The quest for bliss is a personal journey, and I find myself on the same path. I seek to discover my own lasting happiness, one that remains with me forever.
In the end, whether we find our bliss where we were born or elsewhere, it ultimately hinges on our connection with ourselves and our capacity to cherish the communities we are a part of.