The UK Prime Minister, David Cameron, wants Britain to embrace the concept of ‘Big Society’ where members of the public step in to provide services that have previously been supplied by local councils, central Government or paid contractors. Asians are, of course, better at ‘Big Society’ than most. This is no idle boast: Asian communities have historically lived in extended families with grandparents, parents, aunties and uncles acting as unpaid nannies and baby sitters for young children; carers for the elderly and guardians of young adults. For many years, I recall that we had cousin staying with us, as part of our family rather than a lodger, while studying for a degree – this seemed perfectly normal. Asians support their temples, gurdhwaras and mosques not just with money, but with hands-on practical help: donating their resources, time and sheer physical effort.Even in the case of law: Shariah law (though much reviled for its ‘extreme’ measures) is wonderful for resolving petty disputes without resorting to expensive lawsuits, the need for a judge and legal aid. Even in my family, I recall many instances where “elders” were consulted to resolve conflict within the family: their words and suggestions being dutifully accepted by all involved. ‘Wisdom’ is revered over Government edicts or advice from a myriad of ‘experts’. On immigration, I recall my American aunty & uncle as happy to sponsor any family member who wanted to go there – providing shelter, support, lodging and food until that member became a responsible, working USA citizen. Few would have done this if the “Big Society” idea didn’t work to create mature, morally responsible, dutiful adults.
Of course, many argue that this is fine when talking about family. But what happens when you try this within the wider population with its multicultural mix of different races, religions and outlook?
‘Sewa’ is hardwired into the genetic code of Asians
To prove that this concept works, Sewa UK has launched the National Sewa Day which takes place on 21st November 2010. Over 10,000 people will take part in a project promoting one of three criteria: helping to relieve hardship & poverty, bringing joy where little exists and promoting environmental preservation.
Projects that are being considered range from tree planting and organising day visits for elderly people, to visiting patients in hospital. None of this is particularly new or revolutionary and much is voluntary work already carried by organisations like the Guides, Scouts and Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme participants. What is different is that way ‘Sewa’ has planned the day.
There are no egos, a seemingly amorphous group of individuals have called their friends, who have called friends and suddenly the idea has taken shape. The concept of ‘Sewa’ (good works) is seemingly hardwired into the genetic code of Asians. Adding a dash of clever marketing has seen a number of high-profile media organisations and partners join to movement, volunteering time and money to help launch National Sewa Day, 21st November 2010 into the nation’s psyche.
“Big Society”? Sorry Mr. Prime Minister…we thought of it first!
In his blog, Arup Ganguly, Chairman of National Sewa Day said “I do applaud the spirit of volunteering and community service at the heart of the ‘Big Society’ plan. As a society, for too long, we’ve been happy to let someone else take responsibility. That has to change – we all need to show more care for our local environment, neighbour hood and community if we want to build a better world”
Mr Ganguly laughingly berates David Cameron for laying claim to the concept of “Big Society”. “I’m sorry Mr Prime Minister, we thought if first” and we have thousands of years of history to prove it!” he adds. “Now clearly, one day isn’t going to make a significant difference but we’re hoping that National Sewa Day will lead to habit formation – that folks who take part this year will make volunteering a part of their regular routine.”
The whole of ‘National Sewa Day’ is floating on a miasma of sheer goodwill under the slogan of “let’s not be selfish, but be selfless”. Thousands have already signed up and there is a palpable sense of anticipation among individuals. A real opportunity to do good without the expectation of any reward - the essence of the Hindu definition of the word ‘Sewa’.
National Sewa Day, 21st November 2010
If you would like to be a part of National Sewa Day register as a volunteer at http://www.nationalsewaday.org/
