A Kenyan born, muslim born, coloured christian man living in Chicago now holds the highest office in the world. Arguably the most powerful man on the planet will now take calls on several issues like free trade between countries, American taxation policy, foreign policy, alternate energy fuel policy, war on terror policy and a much more. I have seen America go crazy over the Presidential debates and the campaigns, and I can totally understand that. I have watched and read a few debates too and its very educating to see two very learned men debate over some fine issues.

However, I feel very strongly that the American elections are overrated outside of the US. The hysteria that follows specially in India is unbelievable. I can understand ‘a following’ and ‘an addiction to debates’ but when people get serious over how ‘Obama is better than McCain for India’ or vice versa, I find it hard to digest. Barack Obama may have a different outsourcing policy than John McCain but its no rocket science to understand outsourcing is not policy driven, rather its driven by business pressures of resource needs, competition and cost. The nuclear deal with India has not been signed by a republican president, it has been signed to bump few jobs and business in America. Even my 92 year old grandma understands that few years ago India was jailed for conducting nuclear test and now we have the direct access and support of American nuclear technology. It was common sense on both occasions and nothing to do with policies of ruling party.

India has seen incredible growth during last 10 years of republican administration ruling in USA, but ironically every heart in India is beating for a Democratic President, Barack Obama. Where is any sense in all this? I guess as usual it is an emotional Indian sentiment that has no room for logic but a trademark Indian passion and dare I say ‘insantity’. I wish people in India would just follow it, enjoy it and discuss it, but not ever get hysterical, captivated, or worst threatened by an American election.

I have had a good time watching elections. I understand it was the most expensive election in these turbulent economic times, and it was historical in some proportions – A black man, a lady, an old 72 year old man were all part of the history. I clearly had a neutral view to the election, but naturally feel a little sorry for the 72 year old, cancer survivor who gave his heart out in this long campaign. Its also exciting to see a black man take control in the white house, particularly because of the millions of interesting jokes that will follow suit over the next 5 years. I guess on a serious note, America has marginally redeemed itself of its dark racial vilification past.