Modernised Scarecrows On The Rise

By Mudasir Ali

We all might know about scarecrows. They are famous and peculiar in Kashmir, specially designed to scare away birds and protect crops. Shreds of old clothes, hats, and sticks are used to create them. Scarecrows are usually placed in the central position of fields to scare off birds. This traditional tool is employed by farmers to prevent flocks of birds from attacking their crops, especially during seed germination. Birds are confused by the scarecrows. Their physical appearance makes them look like a man standing in the field to scare them away. Initially, the birds were frightened by the scarecrows and often flew over the fields without picking up even a single grain. Farmers used this traditional technique seriously and were committed to keeping the birds away using scarecrows. 

However, these deceptive tools have become less effective and no longer deter the birds. The scarecrows themselves are disguised to resemble men. Over time, birds have learned new behavioral skills and intelligence to counter the scarecrows erected in crop fields. This learned behavior developed in birds through constant experimentation. They started testing the scarecrows by visiting the fields in large flocks and observing them. After rigorous experiments, they found the scarecrows were motionless and couldn’t harm or kill any of their fellow birds. This led them to gradually train themselves to recognize and counter the deceptive tactic. Their behavior has evolved to help them identify duplicates. 

This teaches us a moral lesson: “You can deceive once, but not all the time.” In today’s age of science and technology, there has been a paradigm shift across society, revolutionizing it with advanced science and research that largely benefits humankind. Despite this progress, technology has brought various challenges that keep us on edge. The issue of distinguishing between original and duplicate entities has become a complex puzzle in the digital age.

The above illustration about scarecrows has not been fully unraveled with practical insight. Let’s now examine the other side of this practice by correlating it with the present dynamics of so-called “modernized scarecrows.” They are numerous, sharing whatever message they feel is important, often speaking in a melodious way to inspire. However, it is sheer ignorance to listen to them blindly. We must examine whether they are truly “modernized scarecrows” or just people with the beauty and charisma to influence the young generation. Do they aim to bring a wise revolution to Kashmir or are they leading us into a labyrinth? Don’t our scholars preach to us, referencing the Quran and Sunnah in their Friday sermons? Why aren’t we able to recognize the false faces of these “modernized scarecrows”? Were our past sages ignorant then? Think about such questions carefully, and you will find the answers. Self-awareness is more important than anything else.

Throughout history, great minds who enlightened people more than these self-styled speakers have been widely celebrated. Books are filled with wise thoughts penned by great philosophers. A well-known influential saint of Kashmir, Sheikh-ul-Alam, shared his insights through poetry. His crafted verses offer profound wisdom, relevant to present circumstances.

Modesty is in peril, which may lead to significant devastation for our young generation in the near future. Some spread falsehoods openly on social media, while others seek likes and views to increase their popularity. A layperson may be unable to judge the true character of these so-called “legends,” giving them likes and comments without discerning the truth. Some may seem well-intentioned but also occasionally speak nonsense. We often trust the words more than the person. However, I still don’t fully understand the meaningful definition of “legend.” We may rush to follow pages that have no positive role in our lives. True purpose always reflects in positive actions that lead us along the right path. Modernity does not teach us to indulge in vulgarity or shameful acts; rather, it is an era of enlightenment that can shape our minds. Yet, the imprints of the dark age still linger in the face of modernization. I am shocked to see educated individuals following those on social media whose sole purpose is to spread nonsense.

Let me clarify the true meaning of the word “legend.” A legend is a person who has earned accolades and achieved much through hard work, contributing significantly to various fields for the betterment of humankind. “Facebook legends” are individuals who share photos and posts solely to attract views and attention. Every profession or pursuit requires a true sense of ethics, which reflects a person’s worth and dignity. How can we teach our children the difference between good and bad? This is a pressing question for all of us. Every day, social media is flooded with absurdity. In conclusion, we find that ignorance spreads much faster than knowledge and wisdom. Eventually, the truth will come to light, distinguishing the original from the duplicate. 

The ships are full of crews who pretend to navigate fairly, but this is not true. We must keep our eyes open and use our “compass” to identify the deflections. 

Tailpiece:

Let’s take a pledge to share good posts, ethics, and lessons, and abstain from spreading falsehoods and trash. Social media is a vast platform, but unfortunately, it has been hijacked by “modernized scarecrows.” They try hard to defile the innocent environment with their disdainful remarks. We should act like wise birds, who have learned from their experiments with scarecrows. It is high time we paid less attention to them and more to what society truly needs for progress. As citizens, we must play an active role in guiding others. Great minds, intellectuals, and scholars have contributed far more to society than anyone else. Their vision is broader and more focused on the upliftment of society. Let’s not allow ourselves to be pulled into the quagmire by accepting the self-made theories of “modernized scarecrows.”

• The author is a writer. Views expressed are personal 

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