PICK YOUR WAY through the narrow alleys of a south Delhi slum to the dark, low-ceilinged home of a fortune-teller with a green parrot. For a bundle of rupees he sets the bird to work, picking from a selection of cards. The man glances at one and lets his conjectures fly.
India will soon be the world’s greatest power. An assassination looms. He sees an elderly leader’s death and a dynastic marriage. There will be political turmoil in the next two years, but strength will follow. Sporting triumphs lie ahead and riches will fall upon Indians.
It is a razzle-dazzle prediction for a sixth of the world’s population. Yet his analysis of India’s prospects may not be so far off the mark. And its underlying optimism reflects the attitude of many ordinary Indians, who have much to feel pleased about.
looking beyond borders 