INDEPENDENCE DAY EDITION
[India is] the One land that all men desire to see, and having seen once, by even a glimpse, would not give that glimpse for all the shows of all the rest of the globe combined. – Mark Twain
Twain has won it with his words and observation once again! Let’s have a look at this celebratory country of our on its 74th independence day.
From its desert dunes to snow-capped mountains, wildlife amidst its lush green and a lot more, India’s variety in its landscape speaks of its melange beauty. Its richness is reflected in some of its ancient cities- some of it, as old as 3500-4000 years- or finely crafted historical sites. The flavours of India are as varied as its spices and the unique range of food that it has to offer from different parts of the country.
Be it our customs, traditions, rituals or art, music, dance, sports, cuisine, literature etc., they all have their distinct flavours coming from different parts of the country. This cultural potpourri can never fail to charm the observers, who can witness bullock carts competing with motor vehicles, street vendors selling their items right in the shadow of posh shopping centres. This is a country that allows a beautiful coexistence of history and future, right in its present.
We live and thrive amidst its vibrancy which is reflected in everything we do. The way we talk, dress, celebrate, eat or greet changes every fifty or hundred kilometres in this country. Although our methods vary, our intents and sentiments are similar across in its effect of creating joy and celebrating our culture. This is most evident when the nation is full of life as together it lights up in Diwali, dances in Navratri, colours the streets in Holi, exchange gifts in Eid and so on.
While its vivacious side makes India beautiful, there’s also a side that makes it strong and resilient. The land has been a mother to innumerable heroes right from our ancient history till today. With a gift of land like this and culture so rich, each must assimilate the spirit of the others while preserving one’s individuality and growing in this harmony.
To be born in a country of heroic passion and great spirits complementary to its vivid culture is a blessing! Let’s reminisce the words from seven decades ago that still gives us goose-bumps:
“At the stroke of the midnight hour, when the world sleeps, India will awake to life and freedom. A moment comes, which comes but rarely in history when we step out from the old to the new when an age ends, and when the soul of a nation, long suppressed, finds utterance. It is fitting that at this solemn moment we take the pledge of dedication to the service of India and her people and to the still larger cause of humanity.”
– Jawaharlal Nehru