You have repeatedly said that you found real democracy at work in these seemingly blighted areas. What kind of democracy is this?
People in mainstream America tend to be protective of the rights and responsibilities they have. We believe in the right to elect our spokespersons and lawmakers; we believe in a chance to debate and hold dialogue. But rarely do we see real democracy in action.
There is much talk but little action. But there are many people in the ghettos and shanty towns who are trying to build a consensus, who, despite huge odds and misplaced government policies, are trying to improve their own lives, and who despite many people in their communities succumbing to drugs and a violent culture are always finding ways to change scenes. And many of the religious leaders in these communities are beholden to Gandhi.
Beholden to Mahatma Gandhi?
Yes. I was overwhelmed by the number of times religious and community leaders, especially those above 40, who would invoke Gandhi. They would recognise that I am an Indian and would ask me if I was interested in them because of Gandhi. Americans have very little idea how much of religion is there in these communities.
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