The Changing ‘Basics’

Roti kapda aur makaan (food, clothing, and house) were considered to be the most fundamental basics just a couple of decades back. These 3 items sustained to top the list of basic necessities for remarkably long period of time unless we approached the 21^st century.

 With the evolution of computers, mobile phones, internet, the world got introduced to a completely new journey of life which changed constantly almost daily. A 21^st century enterprise opened up a gamut of spectra full of millions and zillions of experiences and choices. And this brought the change to touch the most constant commodity – the basics.

 Today, food, clothing and home still remain the basics but the list does not end on these three. The basics now include various other commodities such as internet access, smart phone, and digital television. This looks very appealing to all of us and undoubtedly, we all are getting used to this change BUT few questions surely wander through the neurons and tantalize our grey matter often.

 Are the basics actually changing?

If yes, is this change across humanity or confined to boundaries?

What are the new basics?

Who defines the basics?

 As we all participate in the recently trending discussions on basics, I wander through the thoughts of BASICS. In my opinion, basics differ from me to you. I may not find my survival without internet but there is a person in some other part of the country who does not even know what internet is. So, will internet be his basic commodity? NO, not yet. He could share a totally different list of basics for him. So, who is a better person to decide on MY basics? It’s me right? Or for that matter, at least I should be asked on my list of basics before generalizing the basics.

And this is my take on the trending #BASICS!