Indian society is an integrated one. Whether it is in terms of culture, race, or religion, Indian society is like a melting pot with everyone retaining their individuality while being an intrinsic element of a great show. Not only humans, but even street animals are a part of it. The other day, I was going through an interesting article in the Economic Times written by Reshmi Dasgupta, which established the inseparable connection between humans and street dogs. The theme of the article instantly grabbed my attention as it spoke of the coexistence between humans and dogs that should breed mutual affection and respect and demanded that dogs should not suffer due to Darwinian Inevitability.
Dasgupta, in her article, talked about the reputed and expensive retail space called Khan Market in New Delhi, which goes on comfortably with its collection of street dogs. The author says that some stores even give them space to sit indoors during hotter months, and during the winter, every animal is given a little mattress. It instantly filled my heart with joy as it is one of the most beautiful examples of coexistence one can think of. As stray animals are undoubtedly the most sentient beings on Earth, sharing such emotional bonds and connecting socially with them is the best thing one can do.
The author reminisces about her early days growing up in affluent areas like the South Delhi colonies, ordinary government accommodations, large bungalows and Delhi Development Authority’s concrete jungles, everywhere she went people would be coexisting with resident street dogs. But in the past few years, stories of aggressive and supposedly bloodthirsty street dogs have been going around. The author here brings up the Evolution of Spaces theory by Charles Darwin to explain the change. According to the theory, evolution happens due to natural selection wherein only the fittest survive. And only those species that survive the environmental challenges pass on their genes to their offspring. It logically leads to the conclusion that along with environmental changes, the survival traits of species evolve as well.
I agree with the author because the situation put forth before us clearly shows that our environment and all other creatures suffer from Darwinian Inevitability. We humans play a vital role in shaping the environment and the evolution of all the creatures on Earth. It is our behavior and lifestyle upon which a safe and harmonious environment for all depends. This proves that the stories of the aggressiveness of the stray dogs around us are actually the reflection of our increasing bad instincts, anxiety and tensions.
It is true that nothing in this world replicates the love of an animal but it is important to keep in mind that mutual respect is the prime requisite for coexistence. In order to coexist with animals, we need to first change our behavior towards them. I believe a kind gesture and care is all it takes to get back unconditional love from our furry friends. It is our kindness and respect for them which makes their lives easier and helps them live alongside us peacefully. Furthermore, I believe that our coexistence will benefit us far more than them as they can be our best companions to evolve together in this world in a better way.
As an animal lover, I believe that the world would be a much better place if we bring small changes in ourselves if we make little space for our Indies in our hearts and surroundings just like the people of Khan Market in New Delhi. Let us be humane and kind not only to ourselves but also to each other and the world around us.
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