It has never been about TikTok or China. It is about the 'free' stage & opportunity given by technology. A partially blind man from a tribal village, with a hut to live in, could never be admired by thousands in his lifetime, no matter how many gov. schemes we float.
Why cricketers & Bollywood stars are making videos with those poor people? Why are they calling them to their shows? Due to casteism and classist approach, it was never possible. Not in one lifetime, not in two. They are being called because now they had the market value.
Despite all our schemes and grants, we keep them perpetually poor. Without recognition. They are dispensable in our society. Unless they have access to art, science or power, there is not going to be any major change in their lives. The tech is bringing that change.
How wonderful is that one app brings them closer to the international celebrities! David Warner is making videos with Arman Rathod. Why? Let the poor and downtrodden embrace the tech. Moreover, let the tech embrace them. If Indian tech, better. But make it accessible.
It is not an allegation but sometimes it seems that Indian tech doesn't care for these people. The apps are complex. Why this public fell for TikTok? Because it was easy to use. Why can't we make easy apps? Without deriding/mocking illiteracy? Tech is all about bridging the gap.
You want to end casteism, class difference? Want to give jobs? Let the downtrodden showcase their ambitions, their lives and their skills. Why do you believe that only 'mainstream' is mainstream? Why the life of a Adivasi can't be mainstream? He is mainstream in his village.
