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The big tree is calling you
Jagmohan Singh
 November 2009
–the twenty-fifth year of injustice is to pass in a few days. But
November is not just a month. It is linked with 1984 and is part of
the consciousness, not just of the victim families alone, but of the
entire Sikh community –the silent ones who do not show it, as well
as the vocal ones, who give expression to the collective angst and
anger.
Living through
such agony and pain, is not an easy experience, and if you happen to
be a victim survivor, it is even more difficult. Vishavjit Singh has
experienced November 1984 and lives it every day. He brings it out
on a canvass in the form of Sikhtoons, poking fun at those who have
been making fun of the Sikhs since decades, giving graphic
representation to the yearnings of the Sikhs and not letting go any
opportunity to look within the community too.
At a recent
commemoration meet organized by the Sikh Forum, the veteran social
and political leader –Jaya Jaitley, who along with others had worked
relentlessly through the Nagrik Ekta Manch during the dark days of
November 1984, said, “if that massive pain that continues to bother
us to this day can generate creativity within us, we will be able to
relieve ourselves and the next generation from distress and that
would be our contribution to reconciliation and peace.”
In putting
together his exhibition of exclusive cartoons, especially focused on
1984, Vishavjit Singh has done just that. He is the “Jew” among
Sikhs, who wants to keep memories alive.
So, take your
families along, especially children and let them know their legacy,
let them know and then tell the world that forgiveness is a trait of
the Almighty but forgetfulness is a trait of the doomed. And we as a
people are unwilling to forget.
The big tree is
calling you.
18
November 2009
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