Pravin Gadhvi's Laughing

This blog is written as a response to a task assigned by Prakruti ma'am, Department of English MKBU. In this blog there is discussion on the poem "Laughing Buddha" written by Praveen Gadhvi.

Smiling Buddha was the code name of India's first successful nuclear weapon test on 18 May 1974. The nuclear fission type bomb was detonated in the Pokhran Test Range of the Indian Army in Rajasthan.

Introduction :

Pravin Gadhavi, born 13 May 1951, is an IAS Officer in the Government of Gujarat. A prolific writer, his collections of poetry are The Bayonet (1985), Padchhayo (1996) and Tunir (2002). His short story collections are Pratiksha (1995), Antarvyatha (1995) and Surajpankhi. 

Literary Contributions

Poetry

1. The Bayonet (1985): This collection likely delves into themes of conflict, struggle, and perhaps the stark realities of life, given the connotation of "bayonet."
2. Padchhayo (1996): The title suggests a focus on shadows or reflections, possibly exploring the deeper, often unseen aspects of human experience and emotions.
3. Tunir (2002): This collection might carry themes of resilience, determination, and the complexities of the human spirit.

Short Stories

1. Pratiksha (1995): This collection, meaning "Waiting," could explore themes of anticipation, hope, and the various facets of human patience and expectation.
2. Antarvyatha (1995): Translating to "Inner Pain," these stories likely delve into the internal struggles and emotional depths of individuals, offering a poignant look at human suffering and resilience.
3. Surajpankhi: The title suggests themes of aspiration, dreams, and the pursuit of light or positivity, possibly reflecting stories of hope and ambition.

• What should be of a higher moral importance for governing bodies, national security or basic needs of its citizens? What do you think is Gadhvi's opinion about this?

Ans. In Pravin Gadhvi’s poem there is criticism of the nuclear power trial, because during 1974 India was under an economic breakdown. During that time, funds should be given for people who were going through difficult economic conditions, but rather it was given on this project. I think basic needs of citizens are more important than national security, because the country would be in a war that has very less possibility and even using nuclear weapons is rare because of the history of nuclear destructive power. So the decision of the nuclear power trial was a bad decision. 

• In light of Henri Bergson's essay titled "Laughter: An Essay On The Meaning Of The Comic" share your thoughts about the possible interpretations of Buddha's laughter in Gadhvi's poem.

Ans. 

During the class discussion we discussed what makes us laugh? a strange thing, a surprise, newness etc. As we know Buddha has conquered all his emotions so he is calm in every situation. But in the poem we find he laughs, this shows the irony. Buddha has spent his whole life spreading a message of peace and on his birth anniversary the nuclear weapon test is the next level of irony and added to that the project was also named the Smiling buddha. This matter itself is the irony and Gadhvi has known this and shared his thoughts as a poem. The laughter and a smile that is always strange with the name of the Buddha but as we say it is an irony that Biddha himself is laughing at the deed of the Indians. One laughs at the less knowledge of the matter of the factand the message of Buddha.

• The rise and fall of significance of a particular moment in history depends on the narrative that is built around it. Discuss this statement with specific reference to Laughing Buddha.

Ans.

The significance of historical moments often hinges on the narratives constructed around them, shaping public perception and collective memory. This idea is particularly relevant in the context of Praveen Gadhvi's poem "Laughing Buddha," which centers on India's atomic bomb testing on May 18, 1974.

In mainstream narratives, this event is frequently portrayed as a moment of national pride and technological achievement, underscoring India's emergence as a significant global power. This narrative emphasizes themes of security, strength, and scientific progress, often downplaying the ethical and humanitarian considerations involved.

However, Gadhvi's "Laughing Buddha" offers a contrasting narrative that questions and critiques this mainstream portrayal. By focusing on the irony of Buddha—a symbol of peace and compassion—laughing at the atomic bomb testing, Gadhvi challenges the notion that such a display of power should be a source of pride. Instead, he invites readers to consider the moral implications and the human cost of prioritizing military strength over basic human needs.

This alternate narrative diminishes the celebratory significance of the event, reframing it as a moment of moral and ethical failure rather than triumph. It shifts the focus from nationalistic pride to a critical reflection on the values and priorities of the society.

The poem's repeated phrase, "see Buddha laughed," underscores the irony and absurdity of celebrating such a destructive force, thereby altering the perceived importance of the event. In doing so, Gadhvi's narrative fosters a deeper understanding of the broader implications of historical moments, reminding readers that significance is not inherent but constructed through the stories we tell and the perspectives we embrace.

Thus, the rise and fall of the significance of India's atomic bomb testing in 1974 illustrate how historical moments can be reinterpreted and revalued through different narratives. Gadhvi's "Laughing Buddha" exemplifies the power of literature to challenge dominant narratives and provoke critical thinking about the events that shape our collective history.

• Share your interpretation of the lines:  "What a proper time! What an auspicious day!”

The line “What a proper time! What an auspicious day” refers to a full moon night that is called Purnima and that is considered an auspicious day for Hinduism as well as on the Buddhism. The government always wants the attention of the public so the days which have any cultural or religious significance are chosen for such events. But if we look at the matter of fact that this line in the poem refers to an irony that hasn't the government found any other day for nuclear test then Buddha Purnima it rather seems ironical.  Or is it a well organised plan to implement this operation on this day to get the attention of the people. Whatever it was but it will always seem a laughable thing for the people because Buddha and nuclear power seem totally opposite.It could signify a time of celebration, joy, and good fortune, aligning with the Laughing Buddha's association with happiness and prosperity. Alternatively, it could highlight a moment of spiritual realization and enlightenment, emphasizing the importance of inner peace and contentment.