April 17th, 2021
A beautiful soul left this earth early this morning.
Real heroes often hide beneath the many roles they play, and Vivek was one such hero. For most of my life, I knew him as a comedian through his films. But in reality, he did so much more. One example is the 3.33 million saplings he planted since 2011 through a movement he engineered, 'Green Kalaam.' He also used his film-comedy to challenge societal norms and promote critical thinking.
Now, we are left with a question: What stance should we take regarding the COVID vaccine he took just a day before his untimely passing?
It’s easy to blame the vaccine entirely for his death. This perspective is often held by those who are emotionally opposed to both COVID and the vaccine or to the vaccine itself.
On the other hand, it’s just as easy to defend the vaccine, insisting that it should be administered indiscriminately and that it had no impact on his health. This view is often held by those who have already taken the vaccine and want to reassure themselves that their decision was right, or by those who plan to take it out of fear.
Both of these emotional positions, however, push aside the critical reasoning that Vivek advocated for.
The truth is, the vaccine works by reducing the severity of COVID, not by completely preventing it. It has side effects, especially for those with allergies or certain medical conditions, so it is prudent to evaluate and administer it carefully. This seems to be a rational conclusion based on information from trustworthy medical professionals and from people who have received the vaccine.
But this conclusion could change, as any observation or conclusion about anything can change.
What if, instead of resorting to blame, we as a society made reasoning and love the foundation of our trust in one another and in the things we create?
And could we apply the same principles—love and reasoning—in administering justice to those who violate trust and commit crimes against humanity?
Bringing such a shift in our psychology would be a fitting and grateful remembrance of the majestic and loving soul that Vivek was, today and for generations to come.