THE FIRE OF INDEPENDENCE BURNS STEADFAST
The fire of independence is burning just as bright in my breast as in the most fiery breast in this country, but ways and methods differ – Mahatma Gandhi
Patriotism and pride for the nation burns in every Indian just as fiery, steadfast, as the day Independence was declared 73 years ago, on August 15th, 1947.
As Gandhi eloquently expressed, due to the diversity of the people of India, the liberty to express nationalism is unique to their chosen selves. Indians are a proud lot, they are stewards of national pride, and nothing is more important to them than their heritage and freedom.
India has indeed come a long way since gaining independence from her British colonial masters.
In fact, India has risen indelibly to attain super power status, on par with the most advanced and literate countries of the world. Look at the prominent Indians lighting up the world stage today. India, both futuristic in its outlook, and a world leader in many areas of its transcendental growth, is one of the world’s fastest rising economies.
In August 2016, I had the privilege of witnessing the National Day celebrations held at the India Gate, in New Delhi. India Gate is a war memorial built to commemorate the thousands of soldiers killed during World War 1. It is a historical monument where the pomp and splendor of the national day celebrations are most extensively held in the capital state.
There was poetry in motion everywhere I looked, especially in the patriotic parade held on the sprawling grounds therein.
In spite of tight security, people came out in droves to celebrate their national day amidst much gaiety and extravaganza. The whole city was spruced up, decorated colorfully, as only the Indians can.
I looked at the eager faces standing in attention when the parade took center stage, singing their national anthem with fortitude and dignity. Beautiful, colorful and diverse, they were of different races, religion, and from every station in life.
I don’t think the people who stood there that day, cared about each other’s differences; because they stood united for a country they loved as comrades of a just cause.
As I toured the area, it was refreshing to see the remarkable changes in the new, modern, cosmopolitan city of New Delhi, a telling sign that India had progressed effectively into the 21st century.
India, a collocation of the old and the new, never fails to impress. It is a land renowned for its master poets, writers and literary greats. The glory of their written scripture is second to none. It is a legacy passed down through generations, driven by the wisdom of forward thinking men and women.
The country stands now at the forefront of the international arena for its dexterity and perseverance amidst challenging times. It is indeed a proud citizen who will fly the national flag this year. It is a patriotic Indian who will march with thousands proclaiming, Jai Hind.