Seriously, Nobel committee?

W-H-A-T???!!! My jaw dropped as I heard U.S. President Barack Obama was to receive this year's Nobel Peace Prize. I was up to my eyeballs in clothes that I had to pack for the holiday that begins just a few hours from now, but I had to drop all that and blog.

I couldn't understand. I still can't. Why Obama? Why? What has he done to deserve this highest of honours? Given a few speeches? Renewed hope among non-whites of a world of equal opportunity? Spoken kindly and respectfully to the Islamic world? Yes, yes and yes. But so what?

The entire world had succumbed to Obama appeal during the U.S. presidential election last year. And his victory was celebrated just as enthusiastically across the globe as it was by his supporters in America. I was among the billions applauding at the time. We have since followed his fortunes with interest. His quiet dignity and erudition have earned our respect. His address to the Islamic world through his speech in Cairo was a welcome departure from the macho BS that used to flow out of his predecessor's mouth. But has all that made the world a better place? Has it changed anyone's life? Has it ended the mutual suspicion - even hate - between the Western and Islamic worlds? No, no and no. It's true that America and the world have very high expectations of this man. But he hasn't done anything yet.

Which brings me back to 'Why?'. I am well and truly baffled. And I hope Obama is too. He must know he has done nothing to deserve this honour. My respect for the man would increase manifold if he gracefully declined the award in favour of someone truly worthy of it. I hope he does.