The cockroach is one of the most resilient creatures on Earth. Did you know it is remarkably crush-resistant because of its thick exoskeleton, can survive for days without its head, live for weeks without food, and endure harsh environmental conditions such as radiation and submergence?
No wonder our Gen Z cockroaches survived and emerged victoriously from the happenings and protests of the last couple of weeks and have emerged stronger than ever. The cockroach is not a creature to be underestimated. Many people are terrified of it – and yes, perhaps there’s a lesson in that too.
As we congratulate the resilient cockroaches who demanded accountability, helped bring attention to the paper leak scandal and brought down a minister, I wish to shift gears and urge you to think in another direction as well.
Yes, the system bears enormous responsibility. But is it the only culprit?
Gen Z, how many of you have witnessed in your own homes or in those of your friends, uncles and aunties who say “Don’t worry, beta. You’ll get a medical seat. I’ll manage it. We know people.”
That is where the demand begins. And wherever there is demand, someone will create the supply.
What about these everyday enabler janta? We can’t get them to resign and yet the roots of this problem often lie there. You are the redeemers – Can u stand up to them as well Can you resist the temptation of shortcuts? Can you say no – even to well-meaning parents, relatives, or family friends who believe that influence is a substitute for merit?
And while we’re asking difficult questions, why have we elevated one profession to such an extent that an entire generation feels it’s worth depends on getting into it?
How many of you truly know what you want to become? Stand up for that dream as well.
It is perfectly okay to become a web developer, an artist, a teacher, or anything else – even if you have a NEAT score (yes I meant a NEAT (not NEET) score).
Stand up for your rights. Students ki azaadi does not mean just absence of paper leaks – it means freedom to choose your path, to pursue knowledge instead of chasing only a lucrative paycheck, and to build a career because it inspires you – not because society has ranked it above all others. That is real azaadi.
Don’t let the hate mongers, political agendas and divisive narratives mislead and distract you from the real problem. Stand up for what young people genuinely need: clarity of thought, integrity of action, and the freedom to choose their own future.
That begins at home my dear friends and much before that in your minds. You are the redeemers and I strongly believe so since it is rare to have such clarity, courage and ethical conviction at such a young age. The future of our country is in the right hands – or perhaps I should say, ..the right generation. I can finally relax.
Congratulations my cockroaches … Keep evolving. Stay resilient. And when the time comes, spread your wings and fly high.