2 days Ago By Dr Kamal Monnoo
If you happen to visit a bonsai plant showroom, you are likely to find a juniper or cedar tree — destined to grow 100 feet tall — fixed in a 12-inch pot, smiling at the heedless onlookers. Thanks to bonsai techniques, the plants are not allowed to grow roots or spread branches through re-potting and excessive pruning. The formula has been perfected for stunted growth in a stifling environment.
The same seems true for our society. After a dose of colonialism, partition, and rule by the feudal elite, our society bore the brunt of successive martial laws, wars, and the nation’s breakup. It lost its roots and vigour due to repeated experiments, including biased foreign policy, Talibanisation, weaponisation, and sponsorship of extremist elements.
Eventually, the reins of the country were taken over by business owners and industrialists, running the nation on borrowed resources. In this milieu, society transformed into a ‘bonsai’ — neither with strong roots nor with graceful standing. However, the artificial pot of loans and grants in which it is planted looks very attractive and ornamental.
It is now crucial to let society’s natural potential grow through participation and rule of law. Only a self-respecting society can flourish in this world. Digital Future FARRUKH SHAHAB, Lahore Cantt.
Tags: bonsai society.
