THE GOLD AND THE GLORY It has been a week since the 2021 Olympics ended and the euphoria hasn’t yet worn off. Afterall, India bagged a gold among other medals and the hockey team made a commendable comeback. Our athletes weren’t even back home before the first hoardings made appearance: ‘Bajrang Punia face of Mobil India ‘Dangal Offer’ campaign’. From a skyrocketing number of followers to lavish gift vouchers to class 1 posts in government offices, a medal in the Olympics is all it takes. And the luxury isn’t exclusive to Indian victors. A gold medalist in the U.S. receives a payment of $37500, and $737000 in Singapore, nearly 20 times more, among other forms of support in healthcare, education etc. It is unquestionable that the winners in the Olympics make their countries extremely proud and they do deserve an enthusiastic applause. But why is it that a show of praise is considered inadequate unless backed with extravagant bills? An overworked argument given in its favor ...