The Myth of Svarga: A Conservative Take on Cultural Appropriation

Imagine a world where cultural appropriation is not just a buzzword but a full-blown obsession. That's exactly what happened when the concept of Svarga, a mythical paradise from Hindu mythology, was dragged into the spotlight by the cultural police. This happened in the United States, around the early 2020s, when the cultural appropriation debate was at its peak. The idea of Svarga, a place of eternal bliss and divine pleasure, was suddenly being scrutinized by those who claim to be the guardians of cultural purity. But why? Because some people dared to appreciate and incorporate elements of this myth into their own lives, and that, apparently, is a crime.

First off, let's get one thing straight: cultural exchange is as old as civilization itself. It's how societies grow, learn, and evolve. But in today's world, where everyone is offended by everything, appreciating another culture's mythology is seen as theft. The irony is palpable. The same people who preach inclusivity and diversity are the ones putting up walls around cultural elements, deciding who gets to enjoy them. It's a classic case of "do as I say, not as I do."

The obsession with cultural appropriation has reached absurd levels. It's as if people have forgotten that cultures have been borrowing from each other for centuries. The Romans borrowed from the Greeks, the British from the French, and so on. But now, if you so much as look at another culture's mythology, you're accused of stealing. It's a ridiculous notion that stifles creativity and understanding.

The idea of Svarga is a beautiful one. It's a place where souls go to enjoy the fruits of their good deeds, a concept that resonates with many people, regardless of their cultural background. But instead of celebrating this shared appreciation, the cultural police are quick to condemn it. They argue that only those who belong to the culture can truly understand and appreciate it. This is not only elitist but also incredibly narrow-minded.

The truth is, mythology is meant to be shared. It's a way for people to connect, to find common ground, and to learn from one another. By putting up barriers around these stories, we're doing a disservice to the very cultures we claim to protect. We're isolating them, turning them into museum pieces rather than living, breathing narratives that can inspire and educate.

Moreover, the idea that only certain people can appreciate certain cultural elements is a slippery slope. Where does it end? Should we stop listening to music from other cultures? Should we stop eating food from other countries? The logic is flawed, and it's time we recognize that.

The cultural appropriation debate is a distraction from real issues. Instead of focusing on how we can learn from each other, we're caught up in petty arguments about who gets to enjoy what. It's a waste of time and energy that could be better spent on fostering genuine understanding and cooperation.

In the end, the myth of Svarga should be a reminder of the beauty of cultural exchange. It's a testament to the power of stories to transcend boundaries and bring people together. But as long as the cultural police continue to dictate what we can and cannot appreciate, we'll remain divided, missing out on the richness that comes from embracing the world's diverse tapestry of myths and legends.