In August, patriotic feelings run high. The entire country seems to be bathed in the colours of the Indian flag. Keeping the patriotic fervour in mind, we asked a few residents what the Inde-pendence Day meant to them.
Dr. Komal Kamra, 67 years (T12A – 2402) says, “Independence Day, to me, is a reminder that I live in a country where I can have full liberty of doing what my mind, heart and head drive me into, and feel the joy and happiness each day of my life.”
For Dr. Anurupa B Singh, 53 years (T12A – 2102), independence is a beautiful word that encompasses many facets of our lives. It goes beyond mere political freedom, evolving with the changing times. “To me, independence signifies liberation from the shackles of worldly bonds – whether they involve relationships, finances, identity, or even the depths of substance abuse. This brings to mind Tagore’s poignant lines, ‘Where the mind is without fear and the head is held high.’”
Independence Day always reminds Anushka Bhatnagar, 16 years (T10 – 1903) of the brave soldiers and martyrs because of whom Indians today are in a state to hoist the tricolour. “I loved the cultural events and the kite flying but now that I have grown up, I realise what the sacrifices were!” For Anushka, independence also means that people are free to express & educate themselves regardless of race or any social segregation.
Sanskriti Bhandari, 13 years (T25 – 902) regards the Independence Day as a special day when the united efforts of Indians helped to earn back our dignity as a country and not just remain a colony of the British.
To Shourya Srivastava, 12 years (T10 – 2006), independence means being able to do things on his own, making choices that matter to him, and feeling confident and strong as he works towards his goals. “It’s about freedom and responsibility. More than on other days, on this day, I feel very proud of my country & that it is being appreciated by other countries!”
Gatik Sharma, 11 years (T4 – 403) says, “Independence Day is a reminder that I can be happy as all our fundamental rights are protected. It comes with equal responsibility. We have the freedom to choose what we want to do and, concurrently, be responsible to act in the larger interest of society and the nation. It is being self- reliant in a sensible way!”
Aadya Singh, 10 years (T29 – 401) observes sagely that if we didn’t have freedom, we wouldn’t have a chance to enjoy our lives or live freely. “This day means lot to me and to everyone living in India because we have a chance to live freely right now due to the freedom fighters. Happy 77th Independence Day to all!”
To Anika Singh, 10 years (T18 – 2102), the Independence Day means a fun-filled holiday when we get to see lots of performances and cultural shows and also participate in some. “I also feel proud to be a free Indian and there is so much festivity around. When I wear the tricolour or hold the flag high, I feel happy and proud to be a free Indian!”
Independence Day is the day for Plaksha Arora, 10 years (T28 – 1602) to remember the sacrifices that helped us to get independence from Britishers. “We are now an independent and democratic country; people have rights to choose and do things as per their wishes. No discrimination and constitutionally all Indian nationals are equals!” She ends with a euphoric ‘Jai Hind, Jai Bharat’!
Our youngest respondent Deepika Raghav, seven years (T28 – 2204) loves her country & is very proud of being born in this wonderful land. “Independence Day means that we live in a free country where I make my choices happily. We celebrate this day by performing dances and shows on patriotic songs and themes. We remember our freedom fighters like Subhash Chandra Bose and Rani Laxmi Bai.”
Our hearts swell with pride hearing these little ones being aware of our freedom struggle & being proud of their country. At their tender ages, they have demonstrated a maturity that gives us more hope for India’s future.
Thank you to all our respondents! Jai Hind!!
