
The Propaganda:
The left side of the image is labeled "PROPAGANDA" and features a video clip of bollywood actor Akshay Kumar. In the video, Kumar is seen on a television show, discussing his experiences with indian passports at international airports. He claims that when indian passports are presented at immigration offices abroad, they are viewed with "a lot of respect." He attributes this respect to the global standing of india under prime minister Narendra Modi's leadership, stating, "You come from the country of Modi." This narrative suggests a positive and respectful treatment of indian nationals due to national pride and international reputation.
The Reality:
Contrasting sharply with this narrative, the right side of the image is labeled "REALITY" and shows a series of disturbing images and a headline in Hindi: "भारतीय के साथ अमेरिकी एयरपोर्ट पर बर्बरता" (Brutality against an indian at an American airport). The images depict US airport security personnel forcibly restraining an indian student at Newark Airport. The student is shown being pinned to the ground, handcuffed, and treated in a manner that the accompanying text describes as akin to a criminal. The reality presented here is one of mistreatment and deportation, far removed from the respect Kumar describes.
Public Reaction:
The tweet has sparked significant discussion on social media, with users expressing disillusionment and criticism. Comments range from calling out the propaganda to questioning the credibility of public figures who promote such narratives. The backlash underscores a growing awareness and frustration with the gap between official narratives and real-world experiences.
The tweet by roshan Rai serves as a powerful critique of the disparity between the idealized portrayal of indian nationals abroad and the harsh realities they face. It calls into question the narratives propagated by public figures and the media, urging a reevaluation of how national pride and international respect are communicated versus how they are experienced. The incident at Newark airport, juxtaposed with Akshay Kumar's statements, highlights the need for a more honest dialogue about the challenges faced by indian nationals globally, beyond the veneer of propaganda.