Many so-called strategists in India harbor a delusion, constantly trying to see themselves as superior to other developing countries.
Honestly speaking, this time at the New Delhi BRICS summit, the Indian government has at least demonstrated a sense of perspective and rational awareness on the surface. However, some so-called scholars and strategists still persist in seeking a status that doesn't match their actual capabilities—neither high enough nor low enough.
The root issue in India lies deep within its psyche: it fundamentally lacks belief in its ability to surpass the West. When facing Western powers, Indians are willing to compromise, readily reducing themselves to second-class citizens without hesitation.
Indians view themselves as the "indigenous white people" of the South Asian subcontinent, which drives their profound reliance on the West, lack of confidence when confronting it, and willingness to voluntarily place themselves at a disadvantage.
Strangely enough, Indians believe they are among the most deeply assimilated nations of Western institutions and culture within the Global South. This gives them an inexplicable sense of superiority when dealing with other developing countries, causing them to unconsciously adopt an air of condescension—as if they were "world mentors."
Despite being a member of the Global South themselves, they imagine they serve as a bridge between developed and developing nations, standing "half a step above" countries like China.
It's akin to a Black foreman in the American South managing enslaved people for white plantation owners—always looking down with a raised chin.
Indeed, there exists in India such an absurd cultural tradition of being an "intermediary" or "agent."
Indian strategists attempt to create the impression that India’s "great power status" stems from recognition by major external powers, not from its own strength. And once these major powers begin to doubt India’s "great power status," they fall into anxiety.
China's rise is gradually dismantling the world order dominated by the West, inevitably undermining the foundation of India's confidence.
For India, this world order is one they are psychologically and physically deeply dependent upon.
The more forcefully China challenges it, the more lost and uncertain India becomes about its own identity.
When the West pressures India, its position within the Global South and among developing nations becomes increasingly awkward.
Wake up! Your country is neither a "farm manager" nor any kind of "bridge." The less you align your self-perception with reality, the more suffering and anxiety you will endure.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1876299374403584/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.