Table of Contents
Moos Motaihen, Lodha Hoihen, Na Hathi, Na Ghora Hoihen (68th BPSC Essay)
Indian society is deeply rooted in folk wisdom, where proverbs and idioms reflect cultural beliefs, traditions, and societal mindsets. One such popular saying from the rural areas of Bihar—“Moos motaihen, lodha hoihen, na hathi, na ghora hoihen”—conveys the idea that no matter how much a rat grows, it can never become an elephant or a horse. This implies that a person from a lower class or background, no matter how hard they try, can never truly become a part of the elite class. The underlying message is that certain limitations are permanent and cannot be overcome.
However, this notion contradicts the fundamental truth of life—human potential is not confined by birth or circumstances but by effort and determination. If fate alone dictated success, history would never have witnessed remarkable transformations. As Tulsidas aptly stated:
“Karma pradhan vishva rachi rakha, jo jas kare, so tas phal chakha.”
(Meaning: The world operates on the principle of karma, and everyone reaps the fruits of their actions.)
Numerous examples prove that one’s destiny is not predetermined by their background. Take, for instance, the legendary Sanskrit poet Kalidasa, who was once considered foolish but later became one of the greatest scholars in Indian literature. If he had accepted his initial limitations, he would never have composed masterpieces like Abhijnana Shakuntalam. Similarly, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, born into a socially marginalized community, overcame all odds to become the chief architect of the Indian Constitution. His life is a testament to the power of perseverance and education in overcoming social barriers.
India’s struggle for independence also refutes the idea that one’s circumstances define their destiny. The First War of Independence in 1857 may not have succeeded, but it ignited a spark that eventually led to India’s freedom in 1947. If freedom fighters had believed that the British were too powerful to challenge, India would have remained a colony. As Mahatma Gandhi once said:
“First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they fight you, and then you win.”
Even in science and technology, India has repeatedly proven that no limitation is absolute. When Dr. Homi Bhabha initiated India’s nuclear program, the country lacked resources and infrastructure. Had India succumbed to the idea that such advancements were beyond its reach, it would never have emerged as a nuclear power. Similarly, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) set a world record in 2017 by launching 104 satellites in a single mission. If scientists had accepted limitations imposed by economic and technological constraints, India would not have achieved such milestones. As Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam wisely said:
“Dreams are not those which you see while sleeping, dreams are those that don’t let you sleep.”
Today, the world offers more opportunities than ever before, and success is no longer confined to a privileged few. Consider P.V. Sindhu, who came from a middle-class background yet won an Olympic medal for India. If she had thought that only athletes from elite backgrounds could achieve international recognition, she would never have reached the pinnacle of sports. Similarly, Dhirubhai Ambani, who started as a small trader, built Reliance Industries into a global conglomerate through sheer determination.
As poet Kabir emphasized:
“Karat karat abhyas ke, jadmati hot sujan.
Rasari aavat jaat te, sil par parat nishan.”
(Meaning: Continuous effort turns even a fool into a wise person, just as a rope rubbing against a stone leaves a mark over time.)
The traditional interpretation of this proverb suggests that one cannot transcend their original status, but history tells a different story. While it is true that not everyone can become an elephant or a horse, it is equally true that every individual has the potential to forge their own identity. If we accept our limitations without challenge, progress becomes impossible. As Swami Vivekananda urged:
“Arise, awake, and stop not till the goal is reached.”
Therefore, rather than accepting this proverb as an absolute truth, we must challenge its implications and embrace the idea that hard work, perseverance, and determination can break any barrier. Success is not predetermined; it is earned through relentless effort and an unwavering belief in one’s potential.
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