As responsible citizens, how do you think we can save our public spaces?
Amitabh Kumar: I think public places save us, rather than us saving them. Cultural Commons keep us from descending into an exclusive, elite and privileged view of public life. In being inclusive and open to different kinds of public, they allow for an imagination of urban life that can escape from the everydayness of it. It is critical, therefore, that pockets like this are preserved and multiplied.
Vivek Chockalingam: Start building a more decentralised governing system where everyone is willing to act on behalf of the neighbourhood. Include the entire neighbourhood in what they call ‘home’. This will have a tremendously positive impact on the safety and quality of the society. There must be a common space where each individual’s voice counts. In a sense, this could be a step towards true democracy. Perhaps, with today’s technology (app world), a system can be developed where decisions can be made as collectives in a more inclusive and streamlined process.
Rozri Iqbal: As responsible citizens, it is our duty to keep our surroundings clean. We can maintain clean surroundings by not throwing garbage in open spaces or road corners. Install dustbins in public spaces to keep the area clean; use public toilets rather than spoiling walls and open spaces. We can also use alternative modes of advertisement than the conventional posters and pamphlets.
Change begins with inner transformation. This transformation happens only when there’s a change in the mindset of the people. How can we bring about this change?
Amitabh Kumar: By being open and inviting participation. The very act of engaging openly with the public by having them witness the process of making art is critical to starting a conversation. It’s great to see that many sites in Bangalore allow such expressions.
Vivek Chockalingam: Compassion is something that is getting lost in cities these days. We see something that is wrong but put on horse blinders because we are busy in our own little world. Inclusiveness and holistic growth can happen, but it will not be an overnight affair. Being compassionate is key to bring about change.
Rozri Iqbal: Education helps in developing a good mindset. It provides a clear picture of how the world or a particular situation actually is. We can also engage in community or social work, where people come together to solve a problem. This exercise gives a person a whole new perspective of the situation.
According to you, what’s the role of youth when it comes to building responsible societies?
Amitabh Kumar: The role of the youth is central in terms of redefining the landscape of cultural production. In order to make art relevant and pertinent, the emerging crop of artists, designers and cultural producers need to be agents of change and actively work together on a culture that is diverse and inclusive in its agenda.
Vivek Chockalingam: The attitude of the youth should be more proactive, they must take responsibility for what is happening around them. If they see something that is wrong, they must speak up. The role of the youth is to be revolutionaries, and have grander visions for development—visions of us growing as humans, beyond the capitalistic and propaganda-driven society.
Rozri Iqbal: As the actions of youth can make or break societies, they have to be extremely mindful about it. By doing this, they can build communities, where people look out for each other. Besides, the youth need to be educated to know their own rights in the society. They must participate in social activities by volunteering for social causes. These activities will help them become role models who inspire others.