Once in a Blue Moon Academia (OBMA)

 Homogenizing the War-drobe(s) of the Hindus: Calling for the Uniformity of Uniforms (?!) Homogenizing the War-drobe(s) of the Hindus: Calling for the Uniformity of Uniforms (?!) Posted on 18th October, 2024 (GMt 17: 25 hrs) DOI:  10.13140/RG.2.2.14203.12328 License:  CC BY 4.0 DEBAPRASAD BANDYOPADHYAY  ⤡ AKHAR BANDYOPADHYAY  ⤡ RUPA BANDYOPADHYAY ⤡ ABSTRACT This paper-letter subversively critiques the drive for cultural homogenization in India, focusing specifically on the imposition of a singular dress code for Hindus as part of a broader Hindutva agenda. It reflects, through sarcastic and satirical tools, on the historical evolution of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) uniform and juxtaposes it with the varied, regionally influenced dress practices of so-called “Hindus” (?) across the geo-political imagination of India. The letter raises concerns about the suppression of cultural heterogeneity and the imposition of a monolithic standard of dress under...

 FAQ: When Will We Get Back Our Hard-Earned Money? FAQ: When Will We Get Back Our Hard-Earned Money? Posted on 19th September, 2024 (GMT 11:52 hrs) Updated on 19th September, 2024 (GMT 14:58 hrs) ABSTRACT The article addresses the DHFL scam victims’ frustration, urging them to take proactive measures instead of repeatedly asking when they’ll recover their funds. It highlights systemic issues, such as the influence of the ruling party, judicial delays, and the questionable role of key figures like Ajay Piramal. Victims are encouraged to pursue civil disobedience and legal action, emphasizing that pressure from organized activism could hasten justice. The court and executive failures are criticized, suggesting activism as a means to reclaim their rights. We, the OBMA activists, share the frustration cum irritation of continuously facing the same question from certain persons over and over again, who have been genuinely afflicted by the  Dewan Housing Finance Corporation Lim...

 The Legitimation Crisis of Indian Elections The Legitimation Crisis of Indian Elections Posted on 28th August, 2024 (GMT 16:01 hrs) ABSTRACT The article “The Legitimation Crisis of Indian Elections” explores concerns about the integrity of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections in India. It highlights significant discrepancies between votes polled and counted, with reports suggesting potential manipulation of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and questioning the Election Commission’s transparency. The article argues that these issues have deepened the legitimacy crisis of India’s electoral system, challenging the credibility of the current government and the democratic process as a whole. “That a political party which works for the defense and growth of capitalism is called “Socialist,” and a despotic government “democratic,” and a rigged election “free” are familiar linguistic-and political-features which long predate Orwell.”  — Herbert Marcuse, One-Dimensional Man (1964) In the...