Pune's Artistic Community Casts Votes with Heavy Hearts
Performers, painters, and artists from various backgrounds made their way to polling stations on Thursday. They carried with them deep concerns about Pune's future and the hopes that inspire their creative work. The civic elections, however, left many feeling troubled and uncertain about the political landscape.
Actor Atul Pethe Voices Strong Disquiet
Veteran actor and director Atul Pethe did not mince words. "I have voted as a responsible Indian citizen. I do so every time," he stated firmly. "This election feels very disturbing and different." Pethe pointed out a glaring lack of clear ideology among political parties. He observed candidates switching allegiances overnight, with individuals who once opposed a party now running on its ticket.
He expressed dismay over visible money distribution and false promises targeting vulnerable voters. "While the real issues of life—unemployment, environment, water, pollution, roads, education, and healthcare—are being ignored, people are being distracted by caste, language, and religion," Pethe lamented. "It feels very confusing."
For Pethe, voting is a sacred duty to preserve democracy. "My strong desire is that democracy should prevail and not be replaced by authoritarianism," he emphasized. "I want a free social space for debates, discussions, and dialogue." From an artistic perspective, he also urged the Pune Municipal Corporation to re-erect the statue of Ram Ganesh Gadkari, destroyed back in 2017.
Other Artists Echo Similar Sentiments
Playwright Satish Alekar cast his ballot at Kamyani School Sabhagruha near Patrakarnagar. He found the current scenario deeply troubling. "Things are very difficult now, seeing the scenario about people's ideology concern," Alekar remarked. He noted that beyond basic civic amenities like water, power, and clean roads, substantive issues were scarcely discussed. "It's very sad for me," he added.
Singer Manjushree Oak voted early at Dhondumama Sathe Homoeopathic Medical College in Erandwane. She found the booth unusually empty and hoped for greater voter turnout. "We talk about rights. These elections are very important and more people should come out to cast their ballot," Oak asserted, stressing civic duty.
Veteran artist Vaishali Oak experienced a smooth voting process but observed a somber crowd. Concerns about Pune's civic conditions clearly weighed on everyone's minds. Issues like deteriorating public cleanliness and a lack of civic sense troubled her deeply. "We choose our elected representatives in the hope that they can make a difference," she said, capturing a collective yearning for positive change.
Notable figures like actor Parna Pethe and Kathak maestro Guru Nandkishore Kapote also exercised their franchise, adding their voices to the artistic community's electoral participation.
A Broader Reflection on Democratic Engagement
The artists' statements reveal a profound engagement with democratic processes, coupled with significant anxiety. They highlight a perceived shift in political discourse, where immediate, tangible problems are overshadowed by divisive identity politics. Their votes are cast not just as citizens, but as cultural custodians deeply invested in Pune's social fabric.
This election season has thus become a moment of reflection for Pune's creative minds. They advocate for a return to issue-based politics, transparency, and genuine democratic dialogue. Their collective voice serves as a poignant reminder of art's role in societal critique and the enduring hope for a more responsive governance.
