India is often referred to as the land of ‘unity in diversity’. India’s cultural landscape is a kaleidoscope of traditions, customs, and artistic expressions that have evolved over centuries. With 29 states, each characterized by its own distinct culture, languages and cuisines, India is a living mosaic of identities. This cultural plurality is a source of strength for India, and it is something that should be celebrated.

The nation celebrates National Unity Day on 31 October, not only to reflect upon and celebrate the cultural plurality that forms the very foundation of India’s rich heritage, but also to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, also known as the ‘Iron Man of India’. This day is a tribute to his contributions and efforts as the first Home Minister and Deputy Prime Minister of India during 1947-50, in bringing the different states and regions together and unifying the nation.

In a country as culturally diverse as India, maintaining unity is a challenge that has been met through various means. The shared history of struggle against British rule, which brought together people from different regions and backgrounds in their quest for freedom, is a primary reason for this unity. This historical solidarity laid the groundwork for a shared national identity that transcends linguistic and cultural boundaries. Education and exposure to different cultures play a pivotal role in fostering unity and understanding among India’s diverse population.

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When elders get due respect
When all the wrongdoers are checked
When no one has to lock their door
When no crime exists any more
The world will be a domicile of peace again.

When this world will change
When no one will be estranged
When only hope and joy prevail
When no bullets or bombs are hailed
The world will be a domicile of peace again.

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~ LAO TSU, 6 B.C.

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Just a month ago, seventy-three voices, including mine, and an orchestra of thirty-one raised their voices, violins, violas, cellos, oboes, clarinets, bassoons, French horns, trumpets, trombones, and a timpani,making glorious music! There must have been a smile on Mozart’s face somewhere in the heavens as he heard Indians from Mumbai, Chennai and Sri Lanka, and musicians from the former states of the Soviet Union, soloists from Italy, all blending their talents together to form melodious harmony!

Not once did a tenor from India turn to another from Sri Lanka, or a soprano from Mumbai to one from Chennai, or soloist from India to an Italian and say, “Hey, that’s not how we sing here!”

Instead, together they produced divine harmony!

Music from around the world sounded the same: Voices sang same notes, same way! Music scores had same print, similar notations, quite often same numbered page.

How unifying, the power of music!

And as my ears still hear the awesome voices singing Mozart’s Requiem and his Coronation Mass, the instruments sensationally resounding in the auditorium, as my eyes still see the petite figure of conductor Coomi Wadia, producing divine harmony with such a diverse group, I ask but one question, “Why can’t it be so with the world?”

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