Prasad Thotakura, a well-known Telugu personality from Dallas, Texas, has addressed the Telugu community in the region, urging them to act responsibly and respect the law of the land.
Speaking in light of recent incidents, he emphasized that Telugu NRIs should live as ambassadors of India and the Telugu community, upholding dignity and discipline while abroad.
He mentioned the importance of the Indian and U.S. national flags, emphasizing that both should be respected and handled with utmost dignity.
He explained the proper protocol for singing the national anthems of each nation, including the correct order in which they should be performed.
After creating awareness about these protocols, he went on to elaborate on the kind of social behavior expected in this country.
Thotakura Prasad highlighted several aspects concerning behavior; creating chaos on public roads during Ganesh processions, causing inconvenience to fellow Americans, shouting and misbehaving in theaters during Telugu film releases, and even breaking coconuts at the posters.
Such acts, he warned, tarnish the image of Indians and Telugus as a whole, as fellow Americans who come to watch English movies get frightened at such acts.
He reminded the community that celebrations should remain within temples and religious spaces, without disturbing public order or local residents.
“We are living in a highly sensitive environment,” he cautioned. “Here, people legally carry weapons. Causing unrest or frustration can have unpredictable and dangerous consequences.”
Thotakura Prasad also appealed to Indian film stars and politicians, urging them not to encourage such disruptive displays of support abroad. They too, he said, hold a moral responsibility to protect India’s image on the global stage.
His timely message serves as a strong reminder to all NRIs; enjoy your cultural pride responsibly, respect local laws and maintain harmony within USA.
A moment of unruly behavior can damage not only individual lives but also the reputation of the entire Indian community.
