"L o n g y e a r s ago, we made a t r y s t with d e s t i n y and now the time comes when we shall r e d e e m our pledge... At the stroke of the m i d n i g h t hour, when t h e world sleeps, I n d i a will awake to l i f e a n d f r e e d o m ."
|| Jawaharlal Nehru. Independence Day Eve ||
I n d e p e n d e n c e, many say, is a word that is defined by one's perception. For some, Independence may come in the form of taking steps towards an unknown path whilst others may find Independence to be synonymous to freedom.
On August 15th 1947 India experienced Independence; overcoming the 200-year-old rule of the British Empire, India stood independent. Perhaps, India's independence could be considered the beginning of a new era, a shining beginning to a new chapter.
Many years later, Independence Day in India continues to have utmost importance. India has grown marvellously, both economically and industrially. Yet the culture, religion and love remains as solid as ever in the hearts of many. Consisting of 29 states and 7 union territories the nation has a staggering population of 1.2 billion. The capital of India is Delhi.
Independence Day in India is celebrated grandly- in fact the day is a national holiday. The day starts of with the Indian flag being hoisted to the highest of points. The Prime Minister, traditionally, addresses the nation- usually listing the many achievements of the nation whilst remembering those that have allowed India independence. Kite flying is an undying tradition that many Indians have adapted on Independence Day; the kites symbolize freedom.
"I'm a lover of my own liberty, and so I would do nothing to restrict yours."
Mahatma Ghandi
We are Indians , Bold and Free,
We love our country,
We salute our flag with love and pride,
And sing Jann Gann Mann, standing side by side.
JanaGanaMana
[YOUTUBE]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8yMvU73Wr7Q[/YOUTUBE]
H a p p y I n d e p e n d e n c e D a y !
Independence or Freedom, as we say, is NOT Free, but comes with a price tag called "Responsibility". An independence without responsibility, leads a person/country on an aimless and directionless path. As a citizen of a free nation and of the largest democratic country, the rights and duties and responsibilities of the normal people should not end just by voting to a selected few and putting the nation in their hands for the next 5 years.
Disappointment against the elected few, making social statuses and forgetting them, does not put an end to the problems. A free nation must be a responsible nation, where every citizen is responsible and accountable for his or her civil rights and duties, there by contributing to the drive of the nation in a more progressive and positive way towards a brighter destination .
Independence day doesn't mark an end of Freedom struggle, but marks the beginning of a new struggle for self existence with pride, liberty, harmony, peace, prosperity, rational thinking and development.
On this 67th Independence day, this one quote I feel is very apt , "Ask not what your country can do for you. Ask what you can do for your country." John F. Kennedy, this must be remembered by every individual before questioning the flaws of a free and independent nation.
Happy Independence to all Indians across the globe :)
Jai Hind !!